Garbo: How Lauren Boebert earned my vote and my respect

By C. J. Garbo | Guest Commentary, Rocky Mountain Voice

When Lauren Boebert announced her decision to leave Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District and run for office in the 4th, I’ll admit, I was hesitant.

Like many others, I questioned her motives. Was this about finding an easier path to victory? Was it a calculated move driven by self-interest, rather than a genuine desire to serve? These doubts lingered as the primary approached, and, while I ultimately cast my vote for her, it was with reluctance, not enthusiasm.

But now, mere months after her election, I can confidently say: I was wrong.

What I’ve witnessed since Lauren Boebert became CD4’s congresswoman has not only erased my skepticism but replaced it with deep respect and admiration. From Day 1, she has shown an unwavering commitment to the people of this district, rolling up her sleeves and getting to work in a way that few politicians ever do. She hasn’t simply attended the occasional town hall or made token appearances at ribbon cuttings — she has immersed herself in the community, tirelessly engaging with constituents to understand their lives, their struggles and their dreams.

It’s one thing to campaign on the promise of fighting for the people; it’s another thing entirely to actually do it, and Boebert has proven she’s not just talk. She’s traveled the district extensively, visiting rural towns and urban centers alike, sitting down with farmers, ranchers, business owners and families. She’s listened — not passively, but with intent and purpose — asking questions, taking notes and following up with action. Every conversation she has had seems to reinforce her understanding of what CD4 values most: freedom, faith, family and the right to live life without unnecessary government interference.

Her advocacy in Congress reflects this grassroots engagement. She’s been a vocal defender of agricultural interests, standing firm against federal overreach that threatens family farms. She’s fought to protect Colorado’s energy industry, recognizing its importance not just for jobs but for American energy independence. She’s pushed back against policies that would undermine our schools and communities, all while championing fiscal responsibility and constitutional rights.

Perhaps most impressive has been her humility throughout this process. It would have been easy for Boebert to treat CD4 as a political safe haven, to show up, win the seat and coast on her name recognition.

But she didn’t.

She treated this district and its people with the respect they deserve, working harder than ever to earn — not assume — their trust. In doing so, she’s proven that her decision to move wasn’t about convenience; it was about commitment.

I’m not someone who easily admits when they’re wrong, but in this case, I’m more than happy to do so. I was wrong to doubt Lauren Boebert’s motives. I was wrong to question her dedication. And I was wrong to think that she wouldn’t rise to the challenge of representing CD4 with the same grit and determination she brought to CD3.

Today, I am not just content with my vote — I am proud of it. Lauren Boebert has shown herself to be precisely the kind of leader CD4 needs: bold, strategic, hardworking and relentlessly focused on the people she serves. In hindsight, casting my ballot for her was one of the best decisions I could have made, and I’m confident that the future of this district is brighter with her fighting in our corner.

To those who still harbor doubts, I say simply this: Watch her work. Watch her show up, listen and lead. Like me, you might just find yourself pleasantly surprised — and, more importantly, grateful to have her as your congresswoman.

C. J. Garbo is a seasoned political strategist, community leader, and advocate for principled governance with over a decade of experience shaping campaigns, advising candidates, and engaging with grassroots movements across Colorado. As a former District Captain for the Douglas County GOP and campaign manager for multiple state and federal races, Garbo has a background that underscores his commitment to accountability, integrity, and the well-being of his community. With a B.A. in Political Science from Metropolitan State University of Denver, Garbo approaches political discourse with a balanced perspective rooted in constitutional principles and civic responsibility.

Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in commentary pieces are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management of the Rocky Mountain Voice, but even so we support the constitutional right of the author to express those opinions.