“We don’t believe there has been any fraud,” stated Al Gage, a key official at the recent Colorado Republican Assembly, reflecting the party’s confidence as they prepare for the upcoming primary election. This assembly, held in Pueblo, Colorado, was pivotal for candidates seeking to secure their place on the ballot for the primary election scheduled for June 30, 2026.
At the assembly, Scott Bottoms emerged as a frontrunner, securing 45% of the delegates, while Victor Marx followed closely with 39%. Candidates needed at least 30% of the delegates to advance, and with eleven gubernatorial candidates competing, the stakes were high. The assembly attracted a total of 2,200 delegates, marking a significant turnout for the event.
In addition to the gubernatorial race, the assembly also determined candidates for other key positions. Michael Allen dominated the attorney general race, garnering 64% of the delegates, while David Wilson received 36%. James Wiley was the standout candidate for the secretary of state, qualifying for the primary ballot with an impressive 71% of the delegates. Meanwhile, Kevin Grantham was nominated for state treasurer by voice vote, and Mark Baisley was the only candidate to qualify for the U.S. Senate ballot.
The backdrop of this assembly is notable; Republicans have not won a statewide election since 2016, when Heidi Ganahl was elected. Furthermore, they have not held the governorship since 2002, making this assembly a critical juncture for the party’s future in Colorado.
As the primary election approaches, candidates are ramping up their campaigns. The urgency is palpable, with only 46 days remaining before ballots are mailed out. The assembly’s outcomes will undoubtedly shape the strategies and messaging of the candidates as they seek to connect with voters.
Voter engagement is also a priority, with officials like Mark Wlaschin emphasizing the importance of informing voters about their rights and available resources. This outreach is crucial, especially in a political landscape where many local election officials are new to their roles, with 12% planning to leave before the 2024 elections.
As the Colorado Republican Party gears up for the primary, the focus will be on how these candidates can galvanize support and overcome the historical challenges they face. The upcoming months will be critical as they work to secure their positions on the ballot and ultimately, the trust of the electorate.
With the assembly concluded, the next steps for these candidates will involve not only campaigning but also addressing any concerns raised during the assembly, ensuring that they are prepared for the challenges ahead. The political landscape in Colorado remains dynamic, and all eyes will be on how these candidates navigate the path to the primary election.