Calvarese is running against Republican Lauren Boebert and third-party candidates Frank Atwood, Paul Fiorino and Hannah Goodman. Atwood and Goodman did not respond to the Coloradoan's invitation to fill out our Q&A.
Calvarese's answers are below. Responses have been edited for spelling and to conform to AP style.
Current occupation and top 3 most relevant experiences
I grew up in this district, went to Highlands Ranch High, got a great education, and was able to get a full ride to college. I went on to work at the AFL-CIO, I worked to help pass infrastructure and American energy legislation. Then at the National Science Foundation, I worked to re-shore American manufacturing.
What made you want to run for this position?
I'm running because our district deserves better than Lauren Boebert's chaos and extremism. We need a representative who is focused on delivering real results, not on making headlines. I've spent my career working to improve our communities, and I'm ready to bring that same commitment to Congress. We need leadership that listens, cares and gets things done.
What's your top issue in this election? Tell us what actions you would take to address it.
Rural health care is my top issue. Too many families in our district have to drive hours for basic care, and that's unacceptable. I'll fight to increase funding for our rural hospitals and clinics and push for expanded telehealth options, so families can access quality care without leaving their communities. Lauren Boebert's focus on creating chaos has left our health care system in crisis. It's time for leadership that puts the health of our community first, not political games.
What's your second most important issue in this election?
Protecting reproductive rights is critical. Lauren Boebert has worked to strip away women's rights and deny us the ability to make our own health care decisions. I'll fight to enshrine Roe v. Wade into law, ensuring women in Colorado and across the country can access safe, legal abortions and other essential reproductive health services. We need representatives who will stand up for our rights, not tear them down.
If you have a third issue, talk about it here.
Supporting our veterans is a key priority for me. Veterans in our district are struggling with access to mental health care, affordable housing and job opportunities. I'll push for expanded VA services and programs that support veterans' transition to civilian life. Lauren Boebert's disregard for the needs of those who served our country is unacceptable. I'll make sure our veterans get the support and respect they deserve.
How would you approach the responsibilities of your office differently from your opponent(s) if elected?
I'll focus on what really matters to our district -- health care, jobs and education. Unlike Lauren Boebert, I won't waste time on partisan stunts and divisive rhetoric. I'll work across the aisle to pass legislation that benefits our community, because we need solutions, not more dysfunction. It's time for leadership that puts people first.