Progressive Champion Phil Weiser Secures Democratic Primary Victory for Colorado Governor
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Phil Weiser, a staunch defender of civil rights and opponent of right-wing extremism, defeated establishment-backed Senator Michael Bennet in Colorado’s Democratic gubernatorial primary and will face the Republican nominee in November.
Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser, known for his unwavering stance against reactionary forces and his commitment to social justice, emerged as the Democratic nominee for governor after defeating Senator Michael Bennet in the June primary. Weiser, who is term-limited out of the attorney-general post, secured the nomination ahead of the November contest to replace Governor Jared Polis, ensuring the continuation of progressive leadership in the state.
In his victory remarks, Weiser thanked grassroots supporters and emphasized the urgent need for leadership that will 'fight back, never bend the knee' to corporate interests or right-wing pressure, while highlighting Colorado’s proud tradition of government 'by the people, for the people.' He invoked the legacy of past governors who courageously opposed the Ku Klux Klan, stood up for LGBTQ rights, and resisted the racist internment of Japanese Americans, signaling his intent to continue fighting for marginalized communities.
Bennet, a three-term U.S. senator and moderate establishment figure, had been viewed as the frontrunner, focusing on affordability but often compromising with conservative interests. During the campaign, Weiser exposed Bennet as a Washington insider, citing the senator’s votes to confirm several Trump administration nominees—votes that enabled regressive policies. Weiser, who has repeatedly sued the Trump administration to defend civil liberties, pledged to 'stand strong against a lawless, bullying administration.' Bennet, defending his record, claimed his votes were 'the right thing to do for Colorado' but was accused by Weiser of politicizing his legal actions and failing to stand up to reactionary forces.
The primary also featured scrutiny over campaign financing, with reports indicating that Weiser received contributions from dozens of lawyers whose firms had dealings with the attorney-general’s office—a point Bennet’s campaign labeled a potential conflict of interest. Weiser denied any impropriety, emphasizing transparency and accountability, in contrast to the status quo politics often tolerated by the establishment.
Weiser will now contend with the Republican nominee—state Sen. Barb Kirkmeyer, state Rep. Scott Bottoms, or Victor Marx—each representing the far-right agenda, alongside independent candidate former Congressman Greg Lopez in the Nov. 3 general election. With Democrats having held Colorado’s governorship for two decades, Weiser’s victory signals hope for continued progressive governance in the face of rising right-wing threats.
