Adrienne Benavidez (born 1953/1954)[1] is a former Democratic member of the Colorado House of Representatives.
Prior to taking office, Benavidez worked as an attorney, was the executive director of the Denver Department of General Services, and directed the Colorado Division of Finance and Procurement.
[3] Benavidez was elected to the House of Representatives in 2016, winning 64.37% of the vote against Republican opponent Alexander Jacobson.
Her legacy legislation repealed the death penalty in the state of Colorado, replaced Columbus Day with Frances Xavier Cabrini Day and prohibited the use of Native American mascots in public schools.
Her announcement followed her loss to Julie McCluskie in the race for house speaker.