The district is currently represented byRepublicanJeff Crank. Historically one of the most Republican districts in Colorado, redistricting and growing Democratic strength in Colorado Springs and suburbs such as Cimarron Hills,Fountain, andSecurity-Widefield have shifted the district strongly to the left. However it is still a moderately Republican-leaning district with aCook Partisan Voting Index rating of R+5.[3]
The Republican Party has held control of the seat since the district's creation. Colorado Springs, the main population center within the district, is home to many conservative Protestant organizations. Among these groups areFocus on the Family, its founderDr. James Dobson (who is considered by some to be the most influential evangelical leader in the country[4]),New Life Church,Compassion International,HCJB, and many others. There is some Democratic strength in this district in urban Colorado Springs and some of its suburbs near Pikes Peak, but it is no match for the overwhelming Republican tilt of the district; however, unlike the nearby 4th that is trending more Republican by the year, the 5th is becoming slightly less Republican due to demographic changes.
Colorado Springs also boasts a large population of both active-duty and retired military personnel and is home to many companies in the defense industry, all of which are demographics that tend to vote for Republicans. Throughout the district's history, Republicans have won by comfortable margins. From 1996 through 2004, RepublicanJoel Hefley usually won reelections with about 70% of the vote.George W. Bush received 66% of the vote in this district in 2004.
Because of the strong military presence, Colorado Springs's economy is usually very stable and frequently sees growth. The western portions of the district are mostly small mountain towns whose economy depends on ranching, farming, mining, and tourism.[citation needed]
Following the1990 U.S. census and associated realignment of Colorado congressional districts, the 5th congressional district consisted ofEl Paso andTeller counties, as well as portions ofArapahoe,Douglas, andFremont counties.[6]
Following the2020 U.S. census and associated realignment of Colorado congressional districts, the 5th congressional district consisted of most ofEl Paso County, except for slivers that were drawn into the4th and7th districts.
For the118th and successive Congresses (based on redistricting following the2020 census), the district contains all or portions of the following counties and communities:[7]
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