In typically Republican Douglas County, Democratic candidate Bob Marshall is leading in the House District 43 race against incumbent Republican Kurt Huffman, according to results released by the Douglas County Clerk and Recorder's Office.
As of 9:12 p.m. Nov. 8, election results show 51.3% of ballots going to Marshall and 48.6% of ballots going to Huffman. So far, 59.5% of votes have been returned.
While speaking to Colorado Community Media on election night, Marshall said he is elated but wasn't surprised by the results.
"I was making headway any time I talked to someone," Marshall said. "I was meshing very well with the community."
Marshall ran on a campaign of supporting public safety, public education and environment, as well as being a pro-choice candidate and a supporter of gun control.
Looking to the upcoming legislative session, Marshall said he'd like to see legislation to increase teacher pay and give educators stipends for school supplies.
He is a first-term legislator, who said he looks forward to representing all of Highlands Ranch, even its conservative voters.
"I intend to represent everyone and be open and accessible, unlike what seems to be the norm in Douglas County that pushed me to run," Marshall said.
Colorado Community Media has reached out to Huffman for comment.
Huffman was appointed to the House District 43 seat in June when former Rep. Kevin Van Winkle, Republican, was appointed to the open Senate District 30 seat following Sen. Chris Holbert's retirement in May.
Huffman's campaign has focused on opposing state mandates, addressing crime and supporting school choice. Huffman also opposes a majority of gun control legislation, with the exception of background check requirements, and considers himself pro-life.
HD43 covers all of Highlands Ranch.
