Colorado's Republican & Democratic candidates debate each other before the primary ballots go out

The three Republican candidates and the two Democratic candidates, all seeking the governor's office, had their debates this week.

The Republicans debated Tuesday night, as much of the evening focused on the candidates themselves rather than policy.

The debate featured State Representative Scott Bottoms, State Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, and nonprofit leader Victor Marx, who has emerged as the fundraising frontrunner in the Republican primary.

Kirkmeyer and Bottoms repeatedly questioned Marx's background and credibility, with Marx defending his record and saying he stands by his humanitarian work around the world.

Kirkmeyer emphasized her experience in government, arguing she is the only candidate with a proven record of balancing budgets, lowering taxes, and governing effectively.

Bottoms promoted hardline immigration policies, including using the National Guard to support federal enforcement efforts. He also made several controversial claims about state officials and election issues.

Despite their disagreements, all three candidates said Colorado has moved in the wrong direction under Democratic leadership and pledged to reverse course if elected. They also generally agreed on rolling back state policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

Marx described himself as a negotiator rather than a politician, arguing that his ability to work with others would help him govern in a state where Democrats control the legislature.

Senator Michael Bennet and Attorney General Phil Weiser squared off in a televised debate Thursday in Denver.

The two candidates agreed on many policy issues but sharply disagreed over who is best prepared to lead Colorado and confront the challenges facing the state.

Throughout the hour-long debate, both Democrats frequently criticized President Donald Trump and highlighted their records opposing his administration. Weiser pointed to dozens of lawsuits filed by the Colorado Attorney General’s Office, while Bennet defended several votes to confirm Trump cabinet nominees, saying those decisions benefited Colorado, including efforts to address wildfire threats.

When moderators asked the candidates to focus on issues beyond Trump, Bennet emphasized Colorado’s rising cost of living, arguing that many families are struggling to achieve the same opportunities previous generations enjoyed.

Weiser highlighted plans aimed at reducing gun violence, addressing the impact of social media on children, expanding mentorship opportunities, and creating a Colorado service corps focused on careers such as teaching, nursing, firefighting, and counseling.

The debate comes just days before primary ballots are mailed to voters. A recent poll showed Bennet leading Weiser by six percentage points, though a large share of Democratic voters remain undecided.

The winner of the June 30 Democratic primary will advance to the general election to replace term-limited Governor Jared Polis.

Primary ballots begin going out June 8 and must be returned by 7 p.m. on June 30.

Colorado's primaries for both parties is June 30. The two winners will advance to the general election in the race for governor.