By Drake Hunter | RMV NE CO Newsroom, Rocky Mountain Voice
Morgan County Republicans gathered on Monday, September 29, for their Annual Candidate Night, drawing a strong crowd for candidate introductions, a ballot review, and a legislative update. Alongside the focus on local races, several speakers emphasized the urgent need for younger generations to engage in politics and leadership.
Those running for re-election connected with voters and shared their priorities for the county’s future, including:
- Dave Martin, County Sheriff
- Kevin Strauch, Clerk and Recorder
- Tim Amen, County Assessor
- Mike Dahl, County Coroner
New county-level candidates also stepped forward, highlighting fresh energy for local government:
- Robert Pennington for County Commissioner, District Two
- Kirstin Watson for County Treasurer
At the municipal level, Fort Morgan Mayor Doc Lindell (current mayor) and challenger Doug Schossow presented their visions for the city’s leadership.
Commissioner Jon Becker offered a practical ballot review to prepare voters for the November election. Meanwhile, State Representative Dusty Johnson (HD 63) and Celeste Pelton, speaking on behalf of her husband, State Senator Byron Pelton (SD 1), delivered a legislative update that underscored both state challenges and opportunities for rural Colorado.
Youth engagement was a recurring theme throughout the evening. Several speakers urged young conservatives to step up, take part in civic life, and ensure Morgan County’s rural values continue to have a strong voice in Colorado politics. Representative Johnson tied it together by stressing that a healthy system requires both energy from the next generation and wisdom from seasoned leaders:
“It takes both the mature, seasoned voices and the younger energy in the system to make it all work,” Johnson said. “That’s how we build a balanced and healthy future together.”
The evening also reflected a heightened sense of security. The Colorado State Patrol offered extra protection for Rep. Johnson and Ms. Pelton, emphasizing the seriousness of the times and the increased need to safeguard leaders in various roles across today’s leadership landscape.
The Morgan County GOP reinforced its mission, clearly stated on their social media platforms: “We are a group of freedom-loving individuals who are seeking to educate and inform the voters of Morgan County about their rights and what is happening, while also engaging with our elected officials at all levels and those in the urban areas about our rural and agricultural lifestyle. All are welcome to get involved.”
With election season approaching, the event not only spotlighted current candidates but also made clear that the future of rural Colorado politics depends on the next generation stepping forward—while learning from the strength and experience of those who came before.