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Senator Winter offers personal apology, says treatment underway after health and substance struggles
Summary
During a personal-privilege statement on Jan. 31, 2025, Senator Winter apologized to colleagues and constituents, described mental-health diagnoses and a brain injury, and said they have begun treatment through Kaiser and other services.
DENVER — During a personal-privilege statement on Jan. 31, 2025, Senator Winter apologized on the Senate floor for conduct they said had harmed colleagues, constituents and the institution and described recent mental-health diagnoses and treatment.
“I apologize for the harm I have caused this institution, turning my constituents' hopes and dreams, concerns, and fears, into legislation that solves problems,” Senator Winter said, according to floor remarks. Winter said they had been unwell mentally, received diagnoses including a chronic disease and a brain injury, and had struggled with anxiety and self-medication with alcohol.
Winter told the chamber, “I began treatment immediately. Thanks to our health insurance, thanks to Kaiser, and thanks to this body's investment in mental health, I've gotten the medical assistance I need.” The senator said they were working with a palliative care therapist provided by Kaiser and described recovery as “not easy or linear” but said they were “making big strides.”
Winter thanked colleagues and others who had supported them and said they hoped speaking publicly would encourage others to seek help: “My hope is that all you all of you see me as a full person facing challenges. A person getting treatment And that I inspire others to instead not feel shame, but get help.”
Why it matters: A sitting senator used floor time for a personal apology and to disclose health and treatment details, which the senator framed as part of recovery and an effort to destigmatize seeking help. The remarks were made during the Senate session and recorded in the official transcript.
Meeting context: The statement occurred amid other floor business and recognition items. No formal motion or sanction was recorded in the transcript excerpt.
