By Tori Ganahl | Rocky Mountain Voice
Colorado’s Congressional District 4 is poised for a political showdown as the race to replace outgoing Representative Ken Buck heats up, especially since March 22nd was his last day. Here’s what you need to know about this critical special election to replace Buck until the actual election happens in November:
With 11 Republican candidates and five Democrats vying for the primary ballot, and one Libertarian candidate for the general election, the field is crowded and competitive.
Buck’s unexpected resignation, accelerated from his previously announced departure at the end of his term in January 2025, has triggered a special election ordered by Governor Jared Polis. This election, scheduled for June 25, coincides with Colorado’s primary elections for House races.
Republican candidates who have declared their interest in being considered for the special election:
- Ted Harvey, former state senator and candidate for the 6th district in 2008
- Richard Holtorf, state representative
- Greg Lopez, former mayor of Parker and candidate for governor in 2018 and 2022
- Jerry Sonnenberg, Logan County commissioner and former president pro tempore of the Colorado Senate
- John Fabbricatore, current candidate for the 6th district
Mike Lynch, state representative and former Minority Leader of the Colorado House of Representatives, still appears to be undecided. Deborah Flora, radio host and candidate for U.S. Senate in 2022, originally stated she was “all in” for the special election but has since changed her stance, withdrawing her name from consideration. U.S. Rep Lauren Bobert has declined her participation in the special election to focus on her primary race.
The Republican candidates on the primary ballot for the November election include Lauren Boebert, Mariel Bailey, Deborah Flora, Richard Holtorf, Trent Leisy, Michael Lynch, Chris Phelen, Justin Schreiber, Jerry Sonnenberg, Floyd Trujillo, and Peter Yu.
Colorado’s 4th Congressional District encompasses most of the rural eastern half of Colorado, Douglas County, and the city of Loveland, historically leaning Republican since 1973.
Special conventions will be held by each party to select nominees for the special election, with the Democrats convening by April 1 and Republicans convening on March 28 in Hugo, Colorado. This special election poses unique challenges and opportunities, potentially affecting the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives.
As the race unfolds, stay tuned for updates and analysis from Rocky Mountain Voice to keep you informed about this pivotal moment in Colorado politics.