Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2026 - Brianna Titone, Colorado State Treasurer
We are currently living in a frightening time in this country, where we have a right-wing federal government hellbent on rolling back US citizens’ civil rights. At this moment, our president is encouraging Congress to pass the “SAVE America Act”, a law that aims to restrict voting measures for US citizens. But Trump has slipped something else in this bill — conditions to restrict rights to transgender Americans, including preventing gender-affirming care for minors and preventing trans Americans from competing in sport.
At this critical moment, America needs more transgender leaders to show that the trans community will not be cowed, that trans Americans are equal with all other Americans, and they are proud and unafraid to represent the communities where they live. Brianna Titone (she/her), is one such American. Currently a state representative in the Colorado General Assembly, Brianna is running to be the next State Treasurer in Colorado. She has dedicated her life to service, not only as a scientist in multiple disciplines, but also as a volunteer firefighter in her community, and she became the first trans elected official in Colorado’s history in 2019. Brianna cares deeply about protecting the working class from corporations and billionaires, investing in affordable housing, protecting consumers from predatory corporations and unbridled AI, and protecting Colorado’s natural environment from fossil fuel exploration and production.
Where are you based?
I am based in Arvada, Colorado, where I have lived for nearly 17 years and proudly represent Northern Jefferson County in the State House.
What position are you running for?
I currently serve as State Representative for House District 27, and I am running for Colorado State Treasurer.
How would you briefly summarize your platform?
My platform is centered on protecting and responsibly growing Colorado’s public dollars with transparency and accountability. I am focused on strengthening affordability, PERA, modernizing the Treasury, responsibly addressing the constraints of TABOR, and ensuring that public investments serve working people rather than corporate insiders.
What inspired you to run?
I have always believed in public service, and have sought out ways to help those around me since I was very young. Including serving as a volunteer firefighter at 16, and attempting to join the FBI. After serving eight years in the legislature, I want to continue that service in an office that directly impacts the financial wellbeing of every Coloradan. The Treasurer’s office is about stewardship, transparency, and making sure our tax dollars are working for people.
What change are you hoping to bring to your district and country?
I want to restore trust in government by showing that it can be competent, transparent, and on the side of everyday working people. That means responsible investments, strong oversight, protecting retirement security, and ensuring public dollars benefit communities rather than special interests.
How long have you been in office? What do you consider to be your major accomplishments so far?
I was first elected in 2018 and have served in the House since 2019. I am proud to have championed landmark legislation, including first-in-the-nation AI regulation, Right to Repair legislation which included wheelchair and agricultural equipment repair bills that empowered consumers and farmers. I have stood up to powerful tech corporations, advanced consumer protections, and uncovered inefficiencies in state spending through my oversight work as Chair of the Joint Technology Committee. I was honored as Legislator of the Year by Rocky Mountain Farmers Union for my work supporting rural communities and working families.
What do you feel are the most important issues right now, why, and how do you plan to tackle them?
Retirement security, housing affordability, fiscal transparency, and the long term structural constraints of TABOR are among the most pressing challenges. As Treasurer, I will protect PERA by reducing excessive private equity exposure, modernize treasury reporting, return unclaimed property to Coloradans, and advocate for responsible long term fiscal planning that allows Colorado to invest in education, housing, and infrastructure.
America is extremely divided these days. How would you hope to bridge that divide with your constituents to better unite Americans?
I believe in listening first and leading with data and results. My background as a scientist trained me to solve problems by bringing people together around facts and practical outcomes. When people see government working effectively and fairly, trust begins to rebuild.
How do you see your unique identity and background to be an asset to you in office?
I bring a STEM background, private sector consulting experience, and years of legislative oversight work. I also made history as Colorado’s first openly transgender elected official. That perspective strengthens my commitment to representation, resilience, and serving communities that are often overlooked.
What is your motto in life?
Strive to make the world a better place!
Where can we find out more about you?
You can learn more about my work, my platform, and upcoming events at my campaign website and through my social media channels, linked below:
Instagram: @briannaforcolorado
Facebook: @briannaforcolorado
Threads: @briannaforcolorado
Bluesky: @briannatitone
