“We don’t believe there has been any fraud,” stated Al Gage, a key official at the Colorado Republican Assembly, following a contentious delegate selection process. The assembly, held on April 11, 2026, in Pueblo, Colorado, was marked by intense competition among eleven gubernatorial candidates, all vying for a place on the primary election ballot.
Scott Bottoms emerged as a frontrunner, securing 45% of the delegates, while Victor Marx followed closely with 39%. Candidates needed at least 30% of the delegates to advance to the primary election ballot, making their performances critical. The primary election is scheduled for June 30, 2026, and these results set the stage for a competitive race.
Among the other notable candidates, Michael Allen secured 64% of the delegates for the attorney general position, while David Wilson garnered 36%. In a significant highlight, James Wiley was the only candidate to qualify for the secretary of state primary ballot, achieving 71% of the delegates. Additionally, Kevin Grantham was nominated for state treasurer by voice vote, and Mark Baisley was the only candidate for U.S. Senate to qualify for the ballot.
The assembly attracted around 2,200 delegates, reflecting a robust engagement from party members. However, the event was not without its challenges, as 80 overvotes were discovered, raising concerns about the voting process. Despite these issues, Gage’s assertion regarding the absence of fraud aimed to reassure attendees and the public about the integrity of the election process.
Historically, Republicans have struggled in statewide elections, having not won since 2016 when Heidi Ganahl was elected. The party has not held the governorship since 2002, making the upcoming primary crucial for their future prospects. The results from the assembly could significantly influence the party’s strategy moving forward.
As candidates prepare for the primary, they are expected to ramp up their campaigns, focusing on key issues that resonate with voters. The next few weeks will be critical as they seek to solidify their support and engage with constituents ahead of the election.
In the broader context, the assembly’s outcomes reflect ongoing dynamics within the Republican Party in Colorado, where the competition for the ballot is fierce. With the primary just weeks away, candidates will need to mobilize their bases and address any lingering concerns from the assembly to ensure a strong showing on June 30.
As the election date approaches, the focus will shift to voter outreach and education, particularly for those who may be new to the voting process. The assembly’s results serve as a reminder of the importance of participation in shaping the future of the party and the state.
