DENVER (AP) — A panel of Colorado Republicans will select a candidate on Thursday who is expected to serve out the final months of U.S. Rep. Ken Buck’s term. This candidate could potentially challenge Rep. Lauren Boebert for another term in Congress.
This unexpected development adds a layer of complexity to a closely watched primary race for a district that Boebert has not previously represented. The chosen candidate is likely to win the special election against the Democratic nominee, complete Buck’s term, and strengthen the Republicans’ slim majority in the U.S. House.
The decision could have broader implications as the committee is expected to select one of the current Republican primary candidates vying for the same seat. With Boebert opting to complete her current term in her previous district, one of her competitors is likely to be chosen by the committee.
The selected candidate will be running in two separate races for the same seat until the June election, providing them with increased visibility, media coverage, and fundraising opportunities. This could benefit candidates who do not have the national recognition and financial resources that Boebert possesses.
“Ken Buck really threw a wrench into the whole thing,” said Seth Masket, director at the Center on American Politics in Denver, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding Buck’s intentions. “It was already a fairly topsy-turvy race, but I think this does make it a little bit harder for her.”
In response to the committee’s decision, Boebert criticized it as interference, stating, “The establishment concocted a swampy backroom deal to try to rig an election.”
Despite controversies surrounding Boebert, she has received endorsements from former President Donald Trump and current Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, solidifying her support among conservatives nationwide.
While the other candidates may struggle to match Boebert’s national conservative influence, the special election shakeup presents an opportunity for one of them to gain ground.
“Whoever it is, they are going to be much more well known come June,” said Conor Dowling, a professor of political science at the University of Buffalo.
Boebert faced a close contest in her previous district in 2022, raising doubts about the appeal of her Trumpian style among GOP voters. Following an impressive fundraising effort by her Democratic opponent for a potential rematch in 2024, Boebert decided to switch districts.
While this move sparked criticism of political maneuvering, Boebert defended her decision by emphasizing the need for her voice in Congress and the importance of Republicans retaining their majority in the U.S. House.
Buck’s decision not to seek reelection and his subsequent resignation have paved the way for Boebert’s district switch, creating a complex and competitive political landscape in Colorado.
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Bedayn is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
