Full Breakdown
Scott Bottoms Secures Top Spot in Colorado GOP Gubernatorial Primary
4/13/2026, 8:48:27 PM
Primary Election Results and Candidates
On April 11, 2026, State Representative Scott Bottoms emerged victorious at the Colorado Republican State Assembly, securing 45% of the delegate votes and clinching the top position on the primary ballot for governor. His closest competitor, evangelical pastor Victor Marx, garnered 39% of the votes. Both candidates will advance to the Republican primary election scheduled for June 30, 2026. A total of 2,145 ballots were cast at the assembly, where eleven gubernatorial candidates competed for ballot access.
Background of Candidates
Scott Bottoms, a prominent conservative figure in the Colorado legislature, has a history of advocating for stringent immigration policies and opposing abortion and transgender rights. He is also a lead pastor at the Church at Briargate. In his campaign, Bottoms emphasized government transparency, safety, and energy initiatives, including plans to build nuclear reactors and collaborate with federal immigration authorities.
Victor Marx, a first-time candidate and founder of the All Things Possible ministry, positioned himself as an outsider to politics, emphasizing leadership over traditional political experience. He has raised significant campaign funds and has been vocal about issues such as parental rights and business regulations, asserting that Colorado needs a leader rather than another politician.
Assembly Dynamics and Challenges
The assembly faced logistical challenges, including long lines and a voting discrepancy where approximately 80 more ballots were cast than the number of credentialed delegates. Delegates ultimately voted to accept these additional ballots as valid. The assembly also included nominations for other statewide offices, with notable candidates like Michael Allen for attorney general and James Wiley for secretary of state.
Criticism and Opposition
While Bottoms and Marx received substantial support, there are concerns within the party regarding the viability of their candidacies against Democratic opponents. Some delegates expressed skepticism about Bottoms' polarizing views and questioned whether Marx, despite his outsider status, could effectively challenge established Democrats. Additionally, state Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, who is also running for governor but did not attend the assembly, may pose a challenge if her petition signatures are verified.
Official Statements & Responses
Bottoms declared, “This is our year. This is the year we’re going to do this,” highlighting his commitment to reclaiming safety and security for Coloradans. Marx stated, “Colorado does not need another politician at this stage of the game. We need a leader,” emphasizing his outsider perspective and focus on practical solutions.
What's Next
The primary election on June 30 will determine which Republican candidate will face the Democratic nominee, either U.S. Senator Michael Bennet or Attorney General Phil Weiser, in the general election. The outcome of this primary is critical for the Colorado GOP, which has not held the governorship since 2002 and has struggled to win statewide elections in recent years.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Bottoms and Marx have solidified their positions for the primary, the status of Kirkmeyer's petition remains uncertain, and the party's overall strategy to regain control in a predominantly Democratic state is still being debated among party members.
