Colorado Republicans To Select Candidate in Unusual Twist for Congressional Seat

Colorado Republicans to Select Candidate Amid Primary Race Twist

April 7, 2023

Unprecedented Decision in Primary Race

A panel of Colorado Republicans is set to make an unprecedented decision on Thursday. This decision will likely result in the selection of a candidate to serve out the remaining months of U.S. Rep. Ken Buck's term. The chosen candidate could potentially pose a challenge to Rep. Lauren Boebert's bid for re-election to Congress. This unpredictable turn of events has added a layer of complexity to a closely watched primary race, especially considering that Boebert is a far-right Republican who has not previously represented the district.

Implications of the Committee's Choice

The committee is expected to choose one of the current Republican primary candidates vying for the same seat, as Boebert has opted to complete her current term in her previous district. The selected candidate is anticipated to prevail in the special election against the Democratic nominee, thereby completing Buck's term and bolstering the Republicans' slim majority in the U.S. House. However, the decision could have far-reaching consequences.

An Unusual Situation

Whoever is chosen will effectively be running in two separate races for the same seat until the June election. This dual candidacy will provide them with greater notoriety, media coverage, and expanded fundraising opportunities. This presents a significant advantage for the candidates, as they currently lag far behind Boebert in national recognition and campaign funds.

Boebert's Reaction

Boebert has expressed dissatisfaction with the committee's decision, referring to it as interference and a "swampy backroom deal to try to rig an election." Her reputation as a far-right figure has been both lauded and criticized, and her endorsements from former President Donald Trump and current Speaker of the House Mike Johnson have solidified her standing among conservative voters nationwide.

Changing Dynamics

Despite the challenges posed by Boebert's strong national image, the special election shakeup could offer an opportunity for one of the competing candidates to gain ground. The race has already been tumultuous, with Boebert's narrow victory in her previous district in 2022 raising questions about the enduring appeal of her Trumpian style among GOP voters.

Moving Districts and Political Maneuvering

After narrowly escaping defeat in her previous Republican-leaning district, Boebert faced criticism for switching districts ahead of the 2024 election. Some of her local primary opponents accused her of "carpetbagging," questioning the motives behind her move. Boebert defended her decision by emphasizing the need for her voice in Congress, as well as the potential impact on Republicans' ability to retain the seat and maintain their majority in the U.S. House.

Resignation of Ken Buck

Buck's decision to not seek reelection last year, citing his party's handling of Trump, created an opportunity for Boebert to consider switching districts. However, the situation took an unexpected turn when Buck abruptly resigned earlier this month, citing the "bickering and nonsense" pervading the U.S. Capitol. His departure on March 22 further complicated the already dramatic unfolding of events.

(Source: The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative)