Story perspectives

Trump Cuts Spark Colorado Gov Primary Upset: Weiser Beats Bennet

6/30/2026

Left

Weiser Challenges Bennet

President Donald Trump’s funding cuts and vetoes have turned Colorado’s Democratic gubernatorial primary into a showdown over resistance.
Senator Michael Bennet and Attorney General Phil Weiser are vying for the Democratic nomination for Colorado governor.
Voter backlash over housing costs, homelessness and job losses erased Bennet’s 30-point lead.
Weiser, who has sued President Donald Trump 66 times, is framed as the anti-establishment challenger.

Right

DSA Launches Campaign

The Democratic Socialists of America launched a June 30 campaign to elect a socialist to Congress after New York primary victories.
Ben McAdams won the newly redrawn Colorado 1st Congressional District primary, defeating progressive rivals.
Congressional Committee spokesman Mike Marinella called Zohran Mamdani’s socialist brand toxic and said Democrats surrendered.
Analysts said far-left victories stay in heavily Democratic districts, giving Republicans swing-state campaign talking points.

Center

Marx Outspends

Victor Marx, Republican candidate, raised about $2.8 million and spent over $400,000 on outside-group ads, outpacing Barb Kirkmeyer and Scott Bottoms.
Colorado conducted its June 29, 2026 primary, voting on governor, U.S. Senate, U.S. House and other state offices.
Senator Michael Bennet raised $4.8 million and said he would appoint Senate replacement if elected governor.
Attorney General Phil Weiser raised $6.5 million in the primary race.

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Weiser Challenges Bennet

President Donald Trump’s funding cuts and vetoes have turned Colorado’s Democratic gubernatorial primary into a showdown over resistance.
Senator Michael Bennet and Attorney General Phil Weiser are vying for the Democratic nomination for Colorado governor.
Voter backlash over housing costs, homelessness and job losses erased Bennet’s 30-point lead.
Weiser, who has sued President Donald Trump 66 times, is framed as the anti-establishment challenger.

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