Representative Barbara McLachlan

Barbara McLachlan is an American politician, educator, and former journalist who is currently serving as a member of the Colorado House of Representatives. She represents District 59, which covers Archuleta, La Plata, San Juan, and part of Montezuma counties.

Barbara was born in Lakewood, Colorado. She received a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Colorado State University, a bachelor’s degree in English from Fort Lewis College, a master’s degree in learning and teaching from Regis University, and a certificate in college counseling from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Before entering politics, McLachlan worked as a Durango High School teacher and as an independent college consultant. She had previously worked as a journalist for the Durango Herald. McLachlan was elected to the Colorado House of Representatives in 2016, winning with 50.73% of the vote over incumbent Republican J. Paul Brown.

In the House, McLachlan serves on the House Education Committee and the House Transportation & Energy Committee. She is the chair of the House Education Committee. Her husband, Mike McLachlan, had previously served in the Colorado House of Representatives. She lives in Durango, Colorado and has two children.