Democrat Justin Brooks Announces for Senate District 17

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Erie, CO – Former Mayor of the Town of Erie, Justin Brooks, announced his candidacy for District 17. The seat was previously held by Senator Sonya Jaquez-Lewis (D-Lafayette), who resigned in February, creating a vacancy for her position. “It was an honor to be appointed to the Town of Erie Board of Trustees in 2021 and elected Mayor in 2022, making history as the first African 

American elected official in our town’s 150-year history. I want to continue working for the greater community in the Senate.”

The proud father of four has called Erie home for 16 years. He cares deeply about creating a strong community so that his kids and others like them feel welcomed to return after college and military service. As Mayor, he focused on building partnerships, supporting local businesses, and creating affordable housing for young professionals and seniors. Brooks wants to tackle critical issues like affordable housing and keeping our communities safe. He wants to ensure healthcare is affordable and accessible to all Coloradans, especially for children and seniors. “With a $1B budget deficit, we need practical solutions to address budget gaps that will quickly and sustainably help our residents. This will require working together to pass meaningful legislation, and I am ready to hit the ground running to make that happen.”

Brooks graduated from Prairie View A&M University with a degree in computer engineering technology. He completed a masters in engineering at Penn State and holds a Project Management Professional certification. He began his career at NASA Johnson Space Center, working on projects like the International Space Station and Space Shuttle programs. In 2009, he moved to Erie for a leadership program and fell in love with the community. He has spent nearly 25 years in aerospace and defense, leading teams to solve complex challenges. His experience as a contractor for the United States Air Force taught him about the sacrifices our brave men and women in the service make every day, how to lead and be efficient, and the importance of bringing people together to find solutions that work for everyone. Being a part of a unit that contributed to keeping our nation safe has been a highlight of his career.

Justin has the support of many community members and leaders, particularly in the Town of Erie. ”Justin was a great Mayor for Erie, always making sure to listen to everyone’s thoughts as he made decisions with the Council for the Town. I was so appreciative of his support for affordable housing so our police, first responders, teachers and restaurant staff among others will be able to live where they work.” – Christina Pisano, Erie Community Member 

Senate District 17 includes eastern Boulder County, southwestern Weld County, and northwestern Broomfield County, covering Lafayette, Longmont, and Erie. The 17th District is a stronghold for Democrats.