SouthernWorldwide.com – Manny Rutinel, a state legislator and Democratic candidate for Congress in Colorado’s 8th Congressional District, faces scrutiny over his past anti-meat activism, which starkly contrasts with the agricultural backbone of the district he aims to represent.
His previous stances on ranching and animal-related industries have raised questions about his current approach to the meat business as he prepares to challenge incumbent Rep. Gabe Evans, R-Colo., in a highly competitive congressional race.
Rutinel indicated a shift in his perspective on ranching in a recent interview with The Colorado Sun. He stated that he has re-evaluated his position.
Rutinel explained that while he has spoken out against extreme animal cruelty and unsustainable food practices within the industry, he now recognizes the positive contributions of ranchers.
“Like all industry, there are bad apples, and I’ve spoken out against those bad apples that cause extreme and unnecessary animal cruelty in parts of the food industry and against the environmental cost of unsustainable food practices,” he said.
He further elaborated on his current view, stating that ranchers are responsible land stewards who care for their animals and are vital to the local economy and community. He emphasized his personal connection with Colorado ranchers, referring to them as friends and neighbors.
The significance of this issue is amplified by the economic reality of Colorado’s 8th district. This region is a major hub for beef cattle and dairy production, contributing approximately 26% to the state’s agricultural output, according to Upstate Colorado Economic Development.
The district’s landscape is largely dedicated to agriculture, with 75% of its 2.5 million acres used for farming and livestock raising.
Despite his current reframing of the issue, Rutinel’s past statements suggest a different ideal future. His earlier activism has been brought to light, questioning the sincerity of his recent pivot.
As a 21-year-old, Rutinel advocated for veganism, famously appearing at an Earth Day celebration with a pro-vegan sign. He linked environmental sustainability with dietary choices, stating, “In order to go green, you have to eat green.”
He later reflected on this period and his views on food systems during testimony before the Connecticut legislature while he was a student at Yale Law School.
During his time at Yale, Rutinel cited a report advocating for a significant shift away from animal products towards plant-based foods. He presented this as a strategy for environmental sustainability and improved public health.
“The report concludes that the globe must dramatically shift away from animal products and towards fruit, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and nuts. This environmental shift will also have tremendous health benefits for consumers,” Rutinel said, referring to the Planetary Health Diet.
Years later, in his role as a state legislator, Rutinel expressed strong support for a proposed ban on fur. This position was notable, as it differed from the stance of the Denver Democrats, who had opposed the measure.
Additionally, Rutinel initiated a petition urging Popeyes to introduce a plant-based menu. His rationale was rooted in public health concerns, specifically the potential for COVID-19 transmission among slaughterhouse workers.
Furthermore, Rutinel founded Climate Refarm, an organization dedicated to assisting individuals and institutions in transitioning to more plant-based food consumption and reducing their environmental impact.
“At Climate Refarm, we exist to turn everyday choices into powerful tools for climate action. Our mission is to help institutions transition to plant-based food systems while reducing greenhouse gas emissions through science-backed carbon credit solutions,” the group’s website states.
Having successfully navigated the Democratic primary, Rutinel is now set to face Evans in the general election for Colorado’s 8th Congressional District on November 3, 2026.
