Exploring the Early Field of Candidates for Colorado’s 2026 Governor Election

As the 2026 election season nears, Coloradans are already seeing early announcements for the governor’s race. With Governor Jared Polis stepping down after his term, Attorney General Phil Weiser and State Representative Scott Bottoms have already declared their candidacy. While these are just two names, rumors suggest a wide field of contenders is expected to enter the race. For Colorado voters, this raises an essential question: What qualities and plans should the next governor bring to the table?

Let’s dive into the candidates, the potential pool, and what Colorado needs in its next leader.

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Who Are the Early Candidates?

Attorney General Phil Weiser, known for his active outreach across Colorado, announced his candidacy without surprising anyone. During his tenure as the state’s chief prosecutor, he gained a reputation for traveling extensively to connect with communities beyond Denver.

On the other side, Scott Bottoms—a strong conservative voice and member of the legislature’s “super-MAGA” faction—made headlines with his decision to run. Although Colorado’s electorate leans left, his candidacy cannot be dismissed. The changing dynamics of national politics could bring surprises, especially with former President Donald Trump eyeing another term in the White House.

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Rumored Names in the Race

A wave of speculation surrounds other potential candidates, particularly from the Democratic side.

1. Jena Griswold: Colorado’s Secretary of State is reportedly exploring a run. However, her history of controversies, including issues with election security and internal complaints, could create challenges.
2. Joe Neguse: A U.S. Representative and rising star in national Democratic politics, Neguse has strong grassroots support. While his current trajectory in Congress might keep him away from state-level politics for now, he remains a name to watch.
3. Ken Salazar: Former U.S. Senator and Ambassador to Mexico, Salazar’s name frequently appears in discussions. His decades of political experience and voter popularity make him a formidable contender.

Beyond these figures, more candidates from both major parties will likely enter the race, offering Coloradans plenty of choices.

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What Colorado Needs in Its Next Governor

As voters prepare for this transition, it’s crucial to reflect on Colorado’s priorities. While Gov. Polis campaigned on promises to “save Coloradans money,” the realities of inflation, housing costs, and healthcare have left many challenges unaddressed.

1. Infrastructure Improvements

Colorado’s population growth has slowed, and more people are moving out of the state than moving in. Rising costs of living are a major factor, but inadequate infrastructure also plays a role. To build a thriving economy and ensure a high quality of life, the state must invest in:

• Better roads and public transportation.
• Improved schools.
• Expanded access to affordable housing.

Leaders like Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey have successfully demonstrated how to tackle infrastructure challenges. By leveraging a voter-approved surtax on millionaires, Massachusetts generated significant revenue to fund transportation projects, including an $8 billion plan for the Boston subway system. Colorado could adopt similar strategies.

2. Healthcare Accessibility

Healthcare costs in Colorado remain among the highest in the country. While hospital profitability has soared, affordability for residents has not improved. A new governor must address this disparity by pushing for transparency in healthcare pricing and expanding access to affordable insurance options.

3. Environmental Sustainability

Colorado is known for its stunning natural beauty, but maintaining this legacy requires strong environmental policies. The state needs:

• Renewable energy investments.
• Policies to combat drought and water shortages.
• Protection for public lands and wildlife.

4. Progressive Tax Reforms

Polls indicate strong support among Colorado voters for a surtax on millionaires. Such a tax could generate over $500 million annually, providing a reliable source of funding for essential programs like Front Range rail or mountain transit systems. This strategy, targeting the wealthiest residents, aligns with public sentiment and avoids burdening middle- and low-income families.

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A Governor with Vision and Determination

Ultimately, Colorado needs a leader with bold ideas and the resolve to make them a reality. This includes innovative solutions for economic challenges, environmental sustainability, and improving public services. The next governor must also demonstrate a commitment to collaboration, bringing together diverse groups to achieve common goals.

For example, a task force on transportation funding, like the one in Massachusetts, could be a game-changer for Colorado. By prioritizing long-term solutions over short-term fixes, the state can position itself for sustainable growth and success.

As we look ahead to the 2026 race, voters must demand more than campaign slogans. They should expect candidates to present detailed plans and a clear vision for Colorado’s future.

Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.

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