Colorado AG Stuns Michael Bennet In Democratic Governor Primary
Bennet, one of Colorado’s best-known Democrats and a former 2020 presidential candidate, entered the race as the establishment favorite.
John Hickenlooper, Reps. Joe Neguse, Jason Crow, and Brittany Pettersen, along with numerous state lawmakers, labor organizations, and more than 200 Democratic leaders across Colorado.
Despite that support, Democratic primary voters chose Weiser instead. Advertisement The two-term attorney general built his campaign around his record as Colorado’s top legal officer, arguing that his executive experience and courtroom battles made him the best candidate to lead the state.
His campaign was backed by Sen
“Phil has dedicated his life to the law, justice, and public service,” Weiser’s campaign states on its website. Advertisement “As your Governor he will continue to advance the rule of law, protect our democracy, and promote justice for all. Phil Weiser will continue to defend and protect every Coloradan across the state.”
Roy Romer, former Rep. Ed Perlmutter, former Denver Mayor Federico Peña, former Sen. Tim Wirth, local officials, state legislators and progressive organizations.
Throughout the campaign, Bennet argued he could accomplish more as governor than he could remaining in the Senate.
Weiser also assembled a significant coalition of supporters that included former Colorado Gov
He frequently emphasized his desire to challenge President Donald Trump and advance Democratic priorities from the governor’s office.
Voters ultimately sided with that message.
The result represents one of the biggest political victories of Weiser’s career while handing Bennet a disappointing defeat after months of campaigning.
Weiser countered by arguing Colorado needed an experienced executive who had already demonstrated a willingness to take legal action on behalf of the state
Instead, Bennet is expected to remain in the Senate and continue serving the remainder of his current term.
With the Democratic nomination secured, Weiser now advances to the general election as the favorite in a state where Democrats have dominated recent statewide contests.
State Sen. Barb Kirkmeyer held the lead in the Republican gubernatorial primary after the Democratic race had already been called. Advertisement Victor Marx and Scott Bottoms trailed in the GOP contest.
It also avoids what could have become a complicated political battle over Bennet’s Senate seat had he won the governorship in November
Whoever ultimately secures the Republican nomination will face a difficult path in the general election given Colorado’s recent voting trends.
Democrat Phil Weiser is the overwhelming favorite to be Colorado's next Governor. He says Colorado would be better served with a more competitive Republican party.
— Kyle Clark (@KyleClark) July 2, 2026
"Competition makes us stronger," Weiser said. "It's not healthy for any state to have one party that's dominant." pic.twitter.com/1e2eK0f3EB
After defeating Sen. Michael Bennet in a stunning comeback, Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser says, "I do think there's one important lesson that everyone who wants to be in public office needs to take on board. Nobody's entitled to anything just because you've been in… pic.twitter.com/kHHbvj5tHO
— Kaitlan Collins (@kaitlancollins) July 2, 2026
For Weiser, Tuesday’s result marks the culmination of years spent building a statewide political profile as attorney general.
If he prevails in November, he will become Colorado’s next governor, succeeding Polis after two terms in office, Trending Politics reported.
Republicans were still counting votes Tuesday night
This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.
