Full Breakdown
Colorado Gubernatorial Primary: Michael Bennet vs. Phil Weiser
1/18/2026, 10:10:27 PM
High-Stakes Fundraising for the Democratic Primary
U.S. Senator Michael Bennet and Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser are gearing up for a competitive Democratic gubernatorial primary, with their campaigns and associated super PACs amassing nearly $9 million by the end of 2025. The primary, set for June 2026, is critical as the winner is expected to have a strong chance of becoming governor in the November election, given Colorado's recent voting trends favoring Democrats. Current Governor Jared Polis, who is term-limited, won reelection in 2022 by a significant margin of nearly 20 percentage points.
Campaign Financing Breakdown
Bennet's campaign has a slight financial edge, having raised approximately $800,000 in the last quarter and starting the year with about $1.6 million in cash. His supporting super PAC, Rocky Mountain Way, raised $36 million last quarter, largely funded by notable donors such as former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who contributed $750,000. In contrast, Weiser's campaign raised $822,000 and began the year with about $3.5 million, while his super PAC, Fighting for Colorado, raised $350,000.
The Tone of the Campaign
As the primary approaches, both candidates are expected to shift their messaging. Initially, they may focus on positive ads highlighting their records, but as the campaign progresses, particularly in May and June, the tone is likely to become more aggressive. Political strategist Jim Carpenter anticipates that the candidates will begin to "unload" on each other, especially after a recent debate where both tested their messaging.
Debate Dynamics and Candidate Strategies
During a recent debate, Weiser criticized Bennet for his past votes on President Donald Trump's cabinet nominees and suggested that Bennet should remain in the Senate. Weiser emphasized the importance of leaders standing up for their values, stating, “I’m not afraid to do the right thing when there are political consequences.” Bennet countered by questioning Weiser's effectiveness, asserting that merely opposing Trump is less challenging than taking substantive action. He remarked, “There’s literally nothing easier in the world than voting against a Trump nominee on the floor of the U.S. Senate.”
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of both candidates are likely to emerge as the campaign intensifies. Weiser's supporters may argue that Bennet's reliance on out-of-state donors undermines his local credibility, while Bennet's camp may highlight Weiser's perceived lack of proactive leadership. The debate dynamics suggest that both candidates will continue to sharpen their critiques as they seek to differentiate themselves in the eyes of voters.
Conclusion: A Competitive Race Ahead
As the June primary approaches, the financial and strategic maneuvers of Michael Bennet and Phil Weiser will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the Democratic gubernatorial nomination. With significant resources at their disposal and a history of competitive politics in Colorado, both candidates are poised for a high-stakes battle that could define the state's political landscape for years to come.
