Full Breakdown
Ken Buck, Former Republican Congressman, Endorses Democrat Phil Weiser for Colorado Governor
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Core Event
On October 14 2026, former Republican U.S. Representative Ken Buck endorsed Democratic Attorney General Phil Weiser in the Colorado gubernatorial race. Buck said Weiser has the experience and character needed to lead the state and praised his willingness to engage with diverse viewpoints. The endorsement joins more than a dozen Colorado Republicans backing Weiser against Republican nominee Victor Marx.
Background & Context
Ken Buck represented Colorado’s 4th Congressional District from 2015 until his resignation on March 22 2024, citing the Republican Party’s refusal to confront national challenges. He previously served as a Weld County district attorney and chaired the Colorado GOP (2019-2021).
Phil Weiser, elected Attorney General in 2019 and re-elected in 2022, is running for governor for the first time. Victor Marx, a ministry leader with no prior elected office, secured the Republican nomination after a primary that also featured former state legislator Barb Kirkmeyer.
Timeline
- March 22 2024 – Buck resigns from the U.S. House.
- October 14 2026 – Buck endorses Weiser for governor.
- November 2026 – Voters will choose among Weiser, Marx, and independent candidates.
Key Figures
- Ken Buck – Former U.S. Representative (R-CO).
- Phil Weiser – Democratic Attorney General (2019-2023), gubernatorial candidate.
- Victor Marx – Republican nominee, ministry leader.
- Craig Steiner – Colorado GOP chairman, critic of the endorsement.
- Russ George – Former state House speaker, Republican-turned-independent, Weiser supporter.
Official Statements & Responses
Buck said his support stems from Weiser’s “experience and character” and his habit of consulting across the political spectrum. He added that the endorsement does not signal a shift in his own conservative beliefs, describing himself as a “strong believer in conservative politics.”
Weiser expressed “deep honor” at receiving bipartisan backing and reiterated his focus on affordable housing, healthcare, and a stronger economy while protecting rights and freedoms.
Colorado GOP chairman Craig Steiner warned that Buck’s move shows how far some Republicans have drifted from party principles, calling the endorsement evidence of the “corrupting” influence of Washington on former Tea Party allies.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m supporting Phil because I think he has the experience and he has the character to be a good governor,” — Ken Buck
- “I am not endorsing the Democratic Party or its objectives,” — Ken Buck
- “While Republicans often have differing views on candidates, no serious Republican endorses a socialist,” — Craig Steiner
What’s Next
Ballots have begun reaching Colorado voters, with the deadline for returning them set for the evening of the November election. The race will determine whether the state continues under Democratic leadership or returns to Republican control.