By BRIAN PORTER | Rocky Mountain Voice
The competition of 10 contested primaries and fielding candidates in races for 60 of 65 seats has Republican leadership in the Colorado House of Representatives hopeful it can increase seat count in the next legislature.
Known as the “Mighty 19”, House Republicans faced a super-minority in the 2024 session, with Democrats holding a 46-19 majority. Republicans would need to pick up at least three seats to end the super majority and 14 seats to regain control of the State House.
“Today’s primary election results showcase the strength and dedication of our Republican candidates,” Colorado House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese wrote in a press statement.
Pugliese was unopposed in the District 14 primary election, earning more than double the votes of the Democratic candidate she will face in the general election.
“Each [Republican nominee] has demonstrated a commitment to the principles and values that our constituents hold dear,” she said. “This is Colorado’s opportunity to provide real relief to our communities, and I am confident that our team is ready to lead with common-sense solutions.”
Two key members of Republican leadership won’t return in the next session. Minority Whip Richard Holtorf chose to seek election to the U.S. House and will be replaced by Dusty Johnson in House District 63. Former House Minority Leader Mike Lynch also sought the same position and Lori Garcia Sander will be the nominee in District 65.
“As we move forward to the general elections, I am confident that the focus will remain on providing tangible, positive results that improve the lives of all Coloradans,” said Assistant Minority Leader Ty Winter. “This is an exciting time for our state, and we are prepared to work toward providing relief to all our constituents.”
Winter was unopposed in District 47, a dependably red seat in Southeast Colorado.
Minority Caucus Chair Mary Bradfield faced two opponents in the District 21 primary, but won with a 14.5% margin over Bill Garlington.
Kathy Reeves won the District 11 primary by 18.9% over Terri Goon and will advance to face Democrat Karen McCormick in the general election. Mark Milliman won the District 12 primary by 22.6% over Robert Mahler. Jarvis Caldwell had another decisive victory with a 32.1% margin over Jason Lupo in District 20. Matt Burcham edged Lora Thomas by 6.8% in District 43 and Max Brooks defeated Bill Jack in District 45 by 11.7%.
In one of the more impressive performances of the night, in Pueblo County Kim Swearingen defeated Christina Rae Mascarenas by 37.9% in District 46. In the eight-county District 58, J. Mark Roeber holds a slight edge over Larry Don Suckla in a race that could go to a recount. He presently leads by 41 votes.