A fifth generation Coloradan, KEN SALAZAR's ancestors have lived in the American Southwest for more than four centuries.  Ken grew up in his native San Luis Valley on the remote Salazar homestead, where his family continues to farm and ranch the same property they've owned since before Colorado became a state. Ken served as United States ambassador to Mexico from 2021 to 2025, where he led the US Diplomatic mission during a pivotal time for North American relations. In this role, he called for urgent action on fixing the border and a new era on trade, energy and climate, immigration, and education. Before serving as US ambassador to Mexico, Ken served as US secretary of the Interior under President Barack Obama (2009-2013), as Colorado's 35th US senator (2005-2009), and as Colorado state attorney general (1999-2005).  Ken devotes much of his time to family and ranching the San Luis Valley. He continues to be a champion for conservation, civil rights, and an inclusive America.