#United States #Denver #Congress #Wanda L. James

Regent Wanda L. James Launches Campaign for Congress

Wanda L. James, a pioneering leader and former Navy officer, is set to announce her candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Colorado's 1st Congressional District. The official announcement will take place on September 17, 2025, at a press event at The Jerk Pit Smokehouse in Denver, Colorado. Following the announcement, there will be a reception for supporters and community leaders.

A Unique Background and Vision

Having made history as the first Black woman commissioned through the University of Colorado Boulder’s Naval ROTC, James brings a wealth of experience to her newfound role in politics. James, who is a first-generation college graduate, has always been motivated by a desire to create equitable opportunities for all, particularly those in underserved communities. Her life’s work has consistently centered around fostering economic growth and social justice for families and small businesses alike.

As a Regent, she has already altered how the University of Colorado approaches procurement, opening up a staggering $1 billion in contracts specifically aimed at benefiting small businesses. This change allows local economies to flourish while ensuring that services and products come from diverse business owners, paving the road toward a more inclusive future.

Commitment to Community and Change

Wanda’s entrepreneurial spirit stands out clearly through her ventures in the restaurant business alongside her husband, Chef Scott Durrah. Together, they own six restaurants in Colorado, which not only create numerous job opportunities but also mentor the next generation of leaders in business. Furthermore, she co-founded Simply Pure, which is recognized as America’s first Black-owned cannabis dispensary. This initiative has positioned her as a national figure advocating for equity and justice, particularly in advocating for reforms in drug policy.

Reinforcing her commitment to the community, Wanda advocates for decreased living costs and better resource accessibility for families in Denver. She mobilizes her strengths as a leader to ensure that small businesses have the support they require to thrive in today's challenging economic environment.

Building a Diverse Leadership

Wanda L. James is a proud supporter of diversity in political and business leadership and invests considerable effort in mentoring future leaders. She believes it is imperative to elevate voices from underrepresented communities, ensuring that the Democratic Party remains a strong advocate for the needs of families, students, and small enterprises.

Her campaign will focus on generating discussions about the challenges facing everyday citizens in Denver, from increasing housing affordability to promoting job growth and economic security. By bringing her lived experience to the forefront, James aims to harness the strength of the community to drive impactful changes in policies that will uplift Denver's families.