
In 2026
The Democratic and Republican parties have nominated Phil Weiser and Victor Marx respectively to compete for the open Colorado governorship in the November 3 general election.
The candidates are Phil Weiser, the incumbent Democratic Attorney General, and Victor Marx, a Marine Corps veteran and ministry leader who won the Republican primary.
Current Governor Jared Polis is term-limited, ending a Democratic hold on the office that has lasted since 2007, though Democrats remain the dominant party in the state.
A Weiser victory would maintain Democratic control of the governor's mansion, while a Marx win would flip the state to Republican leadership for the first time in nearly two decades.
Note: Greg Lopez, a prominent figure who previously ran for Senate, left the GOP to run as an independent for governor as of January 2026 but is not the primary Republican nominee in the final matchup.
Victor Marx won the Republican primary for Colorado governor, defeating Barbara Kirkmeyer and Scott Bottoms.
AP NewsPhil Weiser defeated Michael Bennet to win the Democratic nomination for Colorado governor.
WikipediaThe general election for Colorado governor is scheduled for November 3, 2026, with Weiser facing Marx.
AP NewsThe general election for Colorado governor takes place, where voters will choose between Phil Weiser and Victor Marx.
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Colorado has voted for a Democratic governor in every election since 2008, creating a strong historical precedent for Weiser.
coloradoan.comThe state is rated as "Solid D" with a D+6 partisan lean, making it a safe Democratic territory for the general election.
WikipediaPhil Weiser is the state Attorney General running in his home state, leveraging an incumbent advantage in a race to replace term-limited Governor Jared Polis.
WikipediaAI-generated briefing. AI can make mistakes. This is not financial advice.
Victor Marx defeated two established Republican state legislators (Kirkmeyer and Bottoms) in a tight primary, demonstrating strong appeal among conservative voters.
AP NewsThe Republican primary was competitive with significant votes remaining outstanding on election night, indicating a mobilized base eager to challenge Democratic dominance.
AP NewsWhile Democrats hold the office, the crowded initial field of 42 candidates suggests high voter interest and a potential for significant turnout that could benefit a determined Republican challenger.
westword.comAI-generated briefing. AI can make mistakes. This is not financial advice.