Naomi Riess

Naomi Riess' career experience includes working in consulting.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I have lived in Southwest Colorado for more than 35 years, where I’ve raised my family, operated a small farm, and built a career in land use planning, housing, and local development. As a small business owner, I’ve spent decades helping property owners, farmers, and small businesses navigate complex regulations and work with local governments.

I am a longtime volunteer in a variety of community efforts and have a personal passion for growing things, supporting local agriculture, and promoting healthy, practical lifestyles. Through both my professional and personal experience, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the challenges rural communities face, including housing affordability, economic sustainability, and access to essential services.

I am running for the Colorado House to bring practical, common-sense, locally informed solutions to the state level and to ensure rural communities have a stronger voice in the decisions that affect them.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Rural voices and local control matter. Too many decisions are being made by people who don’t live in or understand rural Colorado. I will defend local decision-making, protect property rights, and push back on top-down mandates - because I’m rooted here, and I will always stand up for rural Colorado.Strong communities start with a practical, locally driven economy - powered by small businesses, agriculture, and landowners. People should be able to live where they work and support their families. I will work to expand housing opportunities and push back on costly state mandates that make it harder to do both.Safety, stability, and family well-being are foundational. I will support law enforcement, hold repeat offenders accountable and confront the fentanyl crisis head-on. I will also fight to protect access to quality rural healthcare close to home - because every family in Southwest Colorado deserves to live a safe, healthy, and secure life.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

1. Land Use & Housing (Land-use regulations, property rights and local control)

2. Rural Economic Sustainability (Small business, agriculture and workforce housing)

3. Family-Centered Policy (Healthcare, education, children, and parental rights)

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

See campaign website