Philip Weiser, Colorado's two-term attorney general, defeated three-term Senator Michael Bennet on Tuesday in the Democratic primary for governor, upending the state's political establishment.
The result sends Bennet back to the Senate after his attempt to trade his upper-chamber seat for the governor's office fell short. Weiser, who has built his political brand on prosecutorial credentials and legal authority, is in a commanding position to capture the governorship in November—a likely outcome in a state where Democrats have consistently dominated recent statewide races.
Bennet's campaign appeared formidable on paper. He secured endorsements from more than 200 Colorado Democratic leaders, including both of the state's sitting Democratic senators—John Hickenlooper among them—plus four sitting House members, state legislative leadership and major labor organizations. His messaging emphasized his federal experience and his record of opposition to Trump administration priorities.
Yet voters moved differently. Weiser built his coalition around prosecutorial experience, his tenure as attorney general and support from an older generation of Colorado Democratic leaders including former governors, former members of Congress and former mayors. He also secured endorsements from progressive organizations and local officials.
Bennet's decision to vacate his Senate seat for a gubernatorial bid created strategic risk. Had he won in November, a special election process would have followed. His loss keeps him in the Senate where he can continue legislative work.
On the Republican side, Barb Kirkmeyer was leading in a three-way primary ahead of challengers Victor Marx and Scott Bottoms. History and recent election data suggest that the Democratic nominee carries the advantage in the general election.
Governor Jared Polis, the term-limited Democrat whose departure created the open seat, has not publicly stated a preference between Bennet and Weiser.
Weiser's campaign emphasized legal authority and the rule of law as central themes. His messaging positioned him as a defender of democracy and promoter of justice for all Coloradans.
Former Colorado leaders backing Weiser—Roy Romer, Ed Perlmutter, Federico Peña and Tim Wirth—represent an older generation of Colorado Democratic leadership. Their support for Weiser over Bennet signals internal party preferences extending beyond simple endorsements.
As Colorado moves toward November, the general election will test whether Weiser's primary coalition can expand to include the broader electorate required for a statewide win.
