Official portrait of Representative Chris Richardson, serving Colorado House District 56 across Adams, Arapahoe, Cheyenne, El Paso, Elbert, Kit Carson, and Lincoln Counties; retired U.S. Army Colonel, former Elbert County Commissioner, and advocate for education reform and local control.

Representative Chris Richardson

House District 56 — Adams, Arapahoe, Cheyenne, El Paso, Elbert, Kit Carson, & Lincoln Counties
U.S. Army Colonel (Ret.) Education Reform Local Control Champion

Contact

Office: 200 E. Colfax, RM 307, Denver, CO 80203

Phone: 303-866-2912

Email: chris.richardson.house@coleg.gov

About

Representative Chris Richardson, a proud resident of Elbert County, brings a wealth of experience in military service, public leadership, and civic engagement to the General Assembly. A retired U.S. Army Colonel, Chris served 23 distinguished years, including combat deployments with the 101st Airborne Division during Desert Storm and as commander of the 43rd Sustainment Brigade at Fort Carson.

After retiring from the military, Richardson dedicated himself to his community, serving two terms as an Elbert County Commissioner. He has held leadership positions in several regional and state boards, including the Colorado Commission on Property Taxation and the Eastern Transportation Planning Region. As an advocate for education reform, Chris also served on the Elizabeth School District Board, where he worked to improve curriculum choice and reduce government overreach.

As a lifelong Republican, Chris is committed to protecting individual freedoms, supporting local control, and advancing policies that reflect the values of Colorado's citizens.

District

House District 56 — Adams, Arapahoe, Cheyenne, El Paso, Elbert, Kit Carson, & Lincoln Counties

Representative Chris Richardson proudly represents Colorado House District 56, covering the Aurora, Ponderosa Park, Strasburg, Burlington, and Bennett communities. Explore the district map below to see the full boundaries.

In the News

Latest press releases, notable media coverage, and featured videos.

Sponsored Legislation

HB25-1032 — Protecting Rural Schools Act

Strengthens resources for rural education systems by expanding funding and teacher support programs.

HB25-1068 — Fentanyl Response Improvement Act

Increases penalties for illegal trafficking while expanding addiction treatment pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions

What year was Chris Richardson First Elected?

Representative Chris Richardson was first elected to the Colorado House of Representatives on November 5, 2024 to serve House District 54.

What area of Colorado Does Representative Chris Richardson represent?

Representative Chris Richardson was elected to serve the people of Adams, Arapahoe, Cheyenne, El Paso, Elbert, Kit Carson, Lincoln Counties in House District 56.

The communities included in House District 56 are Aurora, Ponderosa Park, Strasburg, Burlington, Bennett.

What is Rep. Chris Richardson's Background?

Prior to elected politics, Chris Richardson served with honor and distinction in the United States Army for 23 years. He retired at the ranked of Colonel.

After the military, Chris Richardson served his community as an Elbert County Commissioner for 2 terms. He was elected to the Elizabeth School District Board. Also, served on the Colorado Commission on Property Taxation and the Eastern Transportation Planning Region.

Chris Richardson holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He also attended the US Army Command & General Staff College.

Photos