DENVER – Colorado’s political leaders over the last 12 hours have shared their shock and condolences on the sudden death of Faith Winter, who represented the 25th District.
She passed away in a multi-vehicle crash on I-25 Friday evening.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis announced Winter’s passing in a statement late Wednesday evening.
“Our state is shaken by the loss of Senator Faith Winter, and I send my deepest condolences to her children, loved ones, friends, and colleagues across our state. Faith was a fierce advocate for hardworking Coloradans, women, and families, and our climate. I’ve known Faith for nearly twenty years, first as an organizer for environmental causes and then expanding women’s representation and leadership, and finally, as a state senator. I have had the honor of working with her on many issues to improve the lives of every person and family in our great state, and tackling climate change. I am deeply saddened for her family, her friends and colleagues, and her community. Faith’s work and advocacy made Colorado a better state,” said Governor Jared Polis in a statement.
Shortly after Polis’ statemend, Winter’s family shared a message to the public:
“It’s with the deepest sadness that the family of Senator Faith Winter confirms she passed away this evening. Faith was tremendous leader of our state, a committed friend, a dedicated partner and a loving mother. Faith led with empathy and love before all else. The family appreciates the outpouring of love for Faith and asks for privacy at this time.”
There were little details available on Winter’s passing, but The Colorado Sun reported Winter died in a car crash and a congressional democratic source confirmed to Denver7 Winter died in the multi-vehicle crash on I-25 earlier Wednesday evening.
The crash was reported near E. Dry Creek Road early Wednesday evening, closing I-25 between Exit 195s and 196, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). The interstate reopened just before midnight.
Winter represented Colorado’s 25th District, which includes Broomfield, Westminster and Northglenn. Before elected as state senator, Winter served in the Colorado House of Representatives and before that, served on the Westminster City Council.
Winter, who had two children, held a bachelor’s degree in environmental management and biology, according to her senate bio.
Her legislative work touched housing protections, environment and public transit. She was an advocate for anti-workplace harassment and encouraged people to come forward with their experiences.
In a 2019 Denver7 Politics Unplugged appearance, Winter joined former anchor Anne Trujillo to talk about her fight for a paid family leave bill. You can watch that conversation in the video below.
Colorado Senate Democrats also issued a statement late Wednesday evening, which reads in part:
“We are devastated to learn of the passing of our colleague and friend, Senator Faith Winter. Today, our caucus grieves the loss of a dedicated public servant whose commitment to the people of Colorado never wavered.
Senator Winter served our state with compassion and an unwavering belief in the power of public service to improve lives. Whether fighting for legislation to support mothers and families, championing groundbreaking transit policy, or simply supporting constituents in moments of need, she brought thoughtfulness, innovation, and humility to every aspect of her work.”
Governor Polis ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in honor of Winter’s passing. Winter was 45 years old.
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