Ava Flanell Named to Colorado House District 14 Following Pugliese Resignation

Republicans in El Paso County Colorado have appointed Ava Flanell, a firearms instructor, small business owner, and prominent Second Amendment activist, to represent Colorado’s House District 14 following the resignation of former Minority Leader Rose Pugliese. Flanell, who has owned Elite Firearms and Training in Colorado Springs since 2013 and hosts a firearms industry podcast, has built a large online following and frequently testifies at the state Capitol against gun control legislation. In her announcement, she emphasized her outsider status and grassroots background, noting her years of involvement in conservative causes. House Republicans recently selected Rep. Jarvis Caldwell as their new minority leader, who praised Flanell as a strong advocate for gun rights and a dedicated partner for the caucus. She becomes the third Republican lawmaker appointed during the interim, as Democrats continue to hold strong majorities in the Legislature set to reconvene in January.