Sarah Woodson

Sarah Woodson (Democratic Party) is running for election to the Colorado House of Representatives to represent District 42. She is on the ballot in the general election on November 3, 2026. She advanced from the Democratic primary on June 30, 2026.

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?

Education That Reflects Our Students

Student success improves when educators reflect the students they serve. In Colorado, students of color now make up a majority of the public school population, yet most teachers do not reflect that diversity. This gap matters because representation affects outcomes—students are more engaged, have higher expectations placed on them, and feel a stronger sense of belonging when they see themselves in the classroom. In House District 42, many students come from diverse racial, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds, but their schools often lack educators who share those lived experiences. Supporting teacher diversity strengthens academic outcomes, reduces disparities, and builds trust with families.Care Before Crisis

Mental health care should begin at the first signs of need, not only after someone reaches a breaking point. Too often, families are forced to wait until a crisis occurs before help is available, which leads to worse outcomes and higher costs for individuals and communities. I support a Care Before Crisis approach that prioritizes early intervention, community-based mental health services, and preventive care. By investing in accessible, culturally responsive mental health resources, we can reduce emergency room visits, prevent long-term harm, and support people before they reach crisis. Mental health care should be proactive, compassionate, and treated as essential health care for every family.Arts as Economic and Community Development

The arts and performing arts are powerful tools for economic and community development. Investing in cultural spaces creates local jobs, supports small businesses, and attracts visitors who spend money in our neighborhoods. Arts programs also give young people access to creative outlets, mentorship, and pathways to careers in the creative economy. In diverse communities like HD 42, performing arts venues and cultural programming help bring people together, strengthen neighborhood identity, and activate public spaces. Supporting the arts is not a luxury—it is a proven strategy for revitalizing communities, fostering youth opportunity, and building a stronger local economy in Aurora.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

My north star in public policy is supporting small businesses. As a small business owner, I understand the challenges entrepreneurs face and how vital they are to our city and state. When small businesses thrive, communities thrive. Second, mental health is deeply personal to me. I have seen how early support can change lives, which is why I believe in Care Before Crisis—providing accessible, community-based mental health care before someone reaches a breaking point. Finally, education is essential to breaking cycles of poverty. When children see teachers who look like them, it builds hope, belonging, and better outcomes. Representation in education matters.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Warrior Pack — a political action committee run by CU Regent Wanda James

Pastor Thomas Mays — Aurora pastor and current President of NAACP Aurora (personal endorsement, not an organizational endorsement)

Bianca Emerson — Community advocate and President of Colorado Black Women for Political Action (personal endorsement)

Amy Wiles — Aurora City Councilmember, Ward 3

Catherine Goff — Northglenn City Councilmember

Glenn Davis — Former Littleton police officer; former chair of the Colorado Department of Transportation’s Board of Drunk and Impaired Driving