Scott Bottoms Leads GOP Primary Ballot; Party Tensions Emerge in Colorado Assembly

April 12, 2026
Scott Bottoms Leads GOP Primary Ballot; Party Tensions Emerge in Colorado Assembly
  • In Colorado's Pueblo GOP state assembly, Scott Bottoms captured the top ballot line for the June 30 primary with about 45% of delegate votes, while Victor Marx earned roughly 39.5%, positioning both for the governor’s race; Barbara Kirkmeyer is eyeing the ballot via petition verification.

  • Bottoms vowed to push government transparency, support nuclear development, mining for lithium and uranium, and crack down on crime in coordination with ICE, while Marx highlighted protecting constitutional rights and rebuilding infrastructure.

  • High-profile endorsements included U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert backing Bottoms and Marx, with Marx arguing against career politicians and citing concerns like business departures and public safety; both signaled openness to clemency for Tina Peters.

  • Across statewide races, Attorney General hopefuls Michael Allen and David Willson advanced, James Wiley qualified for Secretary of State, Kevin Grantham secured the treasurer nomination, and Mark Baisley is the sole candidate for U.S. Senate.

  • The winner of the June gubernatorial primary is expected to face a Democratic opponent in November, with U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet or Attorney General Phil Weiser among the potential general-election contenders.

  • The assembly exposed deep partisan tensions following a no-confidence vote against GOP chair Brita Horn, who is stepping down, as delegates and speakers urged unity amid ongoing leadership questions.

  • Delegates voiced worries about public safety, Medicaid spending growth, education funding, immigration, and governance, underscoring a civic emphasis on state leadership.

  • The gathering featured remarks from members of Congress and conservative activist Scott Presler, who backed the SAVE America Act to require citizenship proof for voter registration and a voting photo ID, a measure under consideration in the Senate after passing the House.

  • The convention faced delays and a voting discrepancy of about 80 ballots cast beyond credentialed attendees; organizers ultimately accepted the overvotes and moved forward.

  • Bottoms is seen as a conservative, divisive figure known for election claims and opposition to transgender rights and abortion, while Marx frames himself as a Marine-founded, faith-based candidate focused on infrastructure and Second Amendment protections.

  • Speeches from Bottoms and Marx highlighted parental rights, security, energy, and leadership; both candidates have stressed a strong stance on governance and public safety.

  • Marx submitted petitions to qualify for the primary, keeping options open alongside delegate support.

Summary based on 9 sources


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