She was born in Greeley and was raised on her family's farm near Ault, graduating from Highland High School.
Her work experience includes America Votes working on election strategy and public policy, NARAL Pro-Choice Colorado as Political Director, and an independent living center that assists the disabled in living independently.
On January 12, 2014, incumbent State Representative Sue Schafer opted out of seeking a fourth term.
[3] On January 12, 2014, local Edgewater City Councilmember and Democrat Kristian Teegardin filed his candidacy for the seat.
To qualify for the primary ballot in Colorado, candidates are required to win at least 30% of the vote of seated delegates at nominating assemblies held by political parties.
With Republicans holding a one-seat majority in the State Senate, the district was one of five competitive seats in the Colorado State Senate election that were watched closely around the country as Democrats worked to "flip" the chamber to Democratic control.
[10] In the 2018 general election, Danielson faced Republican Christine Jensen and Libertarian Charles Messick, winning a term in the state senate by eight points.
The new Speaker of the House, Crisanta Duran, appointed Danielson Speaker Pro Tempore of the House and to three of its committees:[12] After the 2018 general election, Colorado's 72nd General Assembly convened on January 4, 2019, at which time Danielson was sworn in as State Senator for Colorado's District 20.