Currently, he is the director of Colorado Rising, an anti-fracking pressure group.[2] A supporter of Bernie Sanders, Salazar is considered a member of the progressive wing of the Democratic Party.[3]
Early life and education
Salazar was raised in Thornton, Colorado. Salazar states that the Spanish side of his family first came to the region in the 16th or early 17th century.[4] Salazar stated that both of his grandmothers were of Apache origin, and that both of his grandparents were of Spanish descent.[5] He received his bachelor's degree from the University of Colorado Boulder and his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Denver.
Legal career
Salazar previously worked as an attorney with Smith, Shelton, Ragona and Salazar, LLC. He focused on employment law, civil rights, and constitutional law.[6]
Political career
Colorado House of Representatives
Salazar was elected to the Colorado House of Representatives in the 2012 election, and served in the chamber until 2019. During his time in the legislature, Salazar’s pushed to end the practice of high schools using mascots offensive to Native Americans.[7] Salazar introduced legislation to repeal Columbus Day's status as a state holiday, stating that "Columbus’ legacy of abuse and disrespect is still readily apparent today."[8]
In November 2021, Salazar filed papers to run for Colorado's 24th Senate district. At the time of Salazar's announcement, the district was represented by Democrat Faith Winter. However, due to redistricting, Winter's residence would be in the 25th District, leaving the new district open. The newly created district includes Thornton and Federal Heights and parts of unincorporated Adams County to the northeast of these two municipalities.[2] However, Salazar chose to drop out of the contest in February 2022.[16]