Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser has won the Democratic primary for governor, defeating U.S. Senator Michael Bennet by a margin of 10 percentage points, according to NBC News projections. With over 80% of the expected vote counted, Weiser secured approximately 55% of the vote, while Bennet garnered around 45%. Weiser's victory reflects a growing frustration among Democrats with establishment candidates, as he positioned himself as the antiestablishment choice in a campaign focused on confronting President Donald Trump's policies.
Election Context
Weiser, who is in his second term as attorney general, emphasized issues such as affordability, housing, and environmental concerns during his campaign. He criticized Bennet for his past votes to confirm several of Trump's Cabinet nominees and portrayed him as a Washington insider. Weiser stated,
The Democratic Party doesn’t show up, listen and fight,
highlighting his appeal to voters seeking a more progressive approach.
Hickenlooper's Senate Primary Win
In a separate Democratic primary, Senator John Hickenlooper won re-election against state Senator Julie Gonzales, leading with 57% of the vote to Gonzales' 43%. Hickenlooper, a former governor and mayor of Denver, defended his record against Gonzales' progressive platform, which included calls for "Medicare for All" and abolishing ICE. Hickenlooper's experience and ability to work across party lines were central to his campaign strategy.
Both candidates will now advance to the general election, where Weiser aims to succeed term-limited Governor Jared Polis in a state that has not elected a Republican governor in over two decades.
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Sources: nbcnews.com, nbcnews.com.
The outcomes of these primaries could influence investor sentiment in Colorado, particularly in sectors sensitive to state policies on healthcare and environmental regulations. Investors will watch for how these candidates' platforms may shape future legislative initiatives.
Watch for the general election on November 8, 2026, as both candidates seek to solidify their positions in a predominantly Democratic state.