Colorado’s June 30th primary is more than another election date — it’s the moment voters decide who gets the keys to the state. As Tracey opens the episode, “Today we’re reviewing the candidates on Colorado’s June 30th, 2026 primary ballot… the governor, the attorney general, and the secretary of state, because these three roles drive the budget, law enforcement, elections, and how the state runs day to day.”
This episode of OpenAgenda.wtf breaks down some of the candidates, the controversies, and the stakes — all with the facts.
The Democratic Field: Governor & TABOR Tensions
The Democratic primary centers on Phil Weiser and Michael Bennet. Bennet, a long‑time U.S. Senator, brings a background in education and city government. Weiser, Colorado’s current Attorney General, has a long legal résumé and a history of high‑profile lawsuits.
Both were asked by The Colorado Sun about TABOR — and their answers reveal the ideological divide. As the transcript notes, Bennet said, “I think we should reform the TABOR so we can invest in our kids… my mind is open on the rest of TABOR.”
Weiser echoed support for voter approval of tax increases but signaled openness to broader changes. Tracey and Lynne interpret this plainly: reform means more state spending and fewer refunds.
The Republican Governor’s Race: Unity? Not Quite.
The GOP field includes Barbara Kirkmeyer, Scott Bottoms, and Victor Marx — and the dynamics are tense. As Tracey explains, “Kirkmeyer and Bottoms would not support Victor Marx if he wins the nomination… that signals a split over trust and style and party identity.”
Kirkmeyer is positioned as the institutional Republican. Bottoms is aligned with the grassroots wing, earning a 97.4% rating on the Liberty Scorecard. Marx is the wildcard — a ministry leader with the highest fundraising numbers but also the most controversy.
The episode highlights a spreadsheet circulating online showing repeated donor names with multiple addresses and unusual contribution amounts. As Tracey notes, “It’s just looking really fishy… I’ve never seen where it’s been refuted.”
Attorney General: Experience vs. Activism
The Democratic side includes Jenna Griswold, whose lack of courtroom experience raises concerns. As Lynne puts it, “We need an attorney general that is… an experienced attorney. What a novel idea.”
On the Republican side, Michael Allen and David Wilson offer contrasting strengths. Wilson represented Tina Peters and emphasizes election integrity, parental rights, and fighting government overreach. Allen, a Navy veteran, opposed Colorado’s controversial homicide bill that would reduce penalties for single‑victim murder.
Secretary of State: A Quiet but Crucial Race
Republican James Wiley runs unopposed and impressed Lynne in person. Two Libertarian candidates — Alex Astley and Sean Vadney — also appear on the ballot. As the hosts emphasize, this office controls elections, and trust is everything.
Why This Primary Matters
Colorado’s open primary system allows unaffiliated voters to participate — a point the hosts revisit as they discuss ballot access and voter choice. The message is clear: your vote shapes November.
A Note on Tina Peters
The episode closes with Tracey’s heartfelt reaction to Tina Peters’ release after four years, quoting the transcript: “I wish her well… they’re trying to get the conviction overturned.”
