Voters Hand Carmelia a Mandate for Change in Westminster

Westminster, Colo. On Nov. 4, 2025, mayoral candidate and City Council member Claire Carmelia was elected the next mayor of Westminster.

Carmelia defeated opponents David DeMott and Bruce Baker with 17,359 votes, or 53 percent of the total, in an election that saw participation from 32,748 residents. The outcome marks a shift in the city’s political landscape and reflects changing priorities among Westminster voters.

The election signals a transition from the long-standing leadership of former Mayor Nancy McNally to Carmelia, whose campaign centered on a set of progressive policy priorities. McNally, widely respected for more than three decades of public service, did not seek reelection. While the city has not confirmed the reasons for her decision, it has been reported that she is undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

McNally’s early departure created an unusual opening in the city’s political environment. DeMott, who served with Carmelia on the council, presented himself as a continuity candidate, while Baker, a former councilman, focused his campaign on concerns about development and city spending. The field led many observers to expect a close contest, which made the size of Carmelia’s victory notable.

Although Westminster’s municipal elections are officially nonpartisan, the campaign mirrored ideological divides seen at the state and national levels. Debates over housing, growth management, public safety and the cost of living reflected political themes that have appeared in previous Westminster elections. These issues aligned with broader partisan differences even without formal party labels.

Carmelia has openly identified as progressive, and her platform included ideas commonly associated with the Democratic Party. Political observers, including Adams County Commissioner Kathy Henson, said the outcome is consistent with a national trend in which Democratic and progressive candidates have seen growing success in suburban and mid-sized cities across Colorado.

Across the country, Democrats gained ground in municipal elections throughout 2025. Cities in Colorado and beyond elected candidates who prioritized affordability, sustainability and expanded public services. In New York City, mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani won office on a progressive platform, reflecting what analysts at Ipsos have described as a wider shift driven by demographic changes, cost-of-living pressures and increased civic engagement among younger voters.

Westminster’s election results fit within this national pattern and suggest continued momentum for progressive leadership at the local level.

During her campaign, Carmelia emphasized long-term planning for Westminster’s growth. She highlighted the need for infrastructure investment, environmental sustainability and greater community access to city services. She also addressed resident concerns about housing costs, transportation options and the pressure development places on existing neighborhoods.

In a speech following her win, Carmelia expressed gratitude for voter support and said she is ready to begin her work as mayor.

“I will be here for you, and I am humbled and honored to be your public servant.”

As Carmelia prepares to take office, she will face several issues that have shaped recent political debate in Westminster. Water rates, housing affordability and the pace of development remain central concerns for residents. These topics are expected to be among the early priorities of her administration. 

Carmelia has also stated that she plans to improve public engagement processes and consider policy approaches that balance growth with the preservation of community identity.

Reactions to her win have included enthusiasm from her supporters and calls for collaboration from residents who backed other candidates. Local organizations and businesses are preparing to work with the new administration on development matters, economic planning and neighborhood priorities.

Carmelia enters office with a clear electoral mandate. Her victory places Westminster within a larger national movement of Democratic gains during the 2025 election cycle. As the city moves into a new phase of leadership, residents will be watching to see how her administration addresses ongoing challenges and responds to shifting political expectations.