“We don’t believe there has been any fraud,” stated Al Gage, a key official at the Colorado Republican Assembly, as the event concluded with significant implications for the upcoming gubernatorial race. The assembly, held in Pueblo, Colorado, saw Scott Bottoms emerge as a frontrunner, securing 45% of the delegates, a crucial step towards the primary election scheduled for June 30, 2026.
The assembly was a battleground for eleven gubernatorial candidates, all vying for a spot on the primary ballot. Bottoms’ performance not only reflects his support within the party but also underscores a critical moment for Colorado Republicans, who have not won a statewide election since 2016. Following closely behind him was Victor Marx, who garnered 39% of the delegates, ensuring that both candidates will advance to the primary.
To qualify for the primary ballot, candidates needed at least 30% of the delegates, a threshold that Bottoms and Marx comfortably surpassed. The assembly, which attracted over 2,200 delegates, was marked by intense competition and strategic maneuvering, as candidates sought to position themselves favorably ahead of the primary.
In addition to the gubernatorial race, the assembly also determined candidates for other key positions. Michael Allen secured a commanding 64% of the delegates for attorney general, while David Wilson followed with 36%. James Wiley emerged as the sole candidate for the secretary of state primary, achieving 71% of the delegates, a notable feat amidst the crowded field.
Kevin Grantham received a nomination for state treasurer through a voice vote, while Mark Baisley was the only candidate to qualify for the U.S. Senate ballot. This assembly marks a significant moment for the Republican Party in Colorado, as they aim to reclaim influence in a state where they have not held the governorship since 2002.
Despite the competitive nature of the assembly, concerns lingered regarding the integrity of the voting process. Al Gage’s assertion about the absence of fraud came in the wake of reports of 80 overvotes discovered during the event. Such issues underscore the ongoing challenges faced by election officials, particularly as they prepare for the upcoming primary.
As the June primary approaches, candidates and their supporters are ramping up efforts to engage voters. With only 46 days remaining before ballots are mailed out, the urgency to connect with constituents is palpable. “He’s been open and honest about his values,” remarked Cherrie Brown, a supporter of Bottoms, highlighting the candidate’s commitment to transparency.
Looking ahead, the Republican Party in Colorado faces a pivotal moment. With the stakes higher than ever, the assembly’s outcomes will shape the narrative as candidates prepare for the primary. The party’s struggle to regain foothold in statewide elections adds an additional layer of complexity to the race, making every delegate count as they move closer to the ballot.
