U.S. Senator Michael Bennet has confirmed his candidacy for the Colorado governor’s office in 2026, aiming to bring his federal legislative experience to his home state and navigate potential cuts and uncertainties during President Trump’s second term. Bennet emphasizes creating better solutions for shared challenges in Colorado and highlights his concerns about Trump’s impact on democracy and the economy.
With Governor Jared Polis term-limited in 2026, Bennet joins Attorney General Phil Weiser as Democratic candidates. Colorado has seen solid Democratic leadership for nearly two decades, and Bennet’s long history in state politics could clear the field of other potential candidates. On the Republican side, several candidates have launched campaigns for the gubernatorial race.
Bennet’s campaign also brings attention to Colorado’s ongoing challenges in housing, healthcare, mental health care, and budget constraints exacerbated by TABOR. Bennet acknowledges the need for comprehensive discussions about reforming TABOR and addressing the state’s budget challenges.
In addition to electoral politics, Bennet’s experience as the superintendent of Denver Public Schools has shaped his policy priorities, including fighting child poverty through expansion of the federal child tax credit. Bennet emphasizes the importance of collaborative leadership, especially in the face of challenges posed by Trump’s administration and other influential figures like Elon Musk.
With Bennet’s formal announcement scheduled for Friday morning in Denver, his candidacy sets the stage for an engaging gubernatorial race in Colorado’s increasingly blue political landscape.
Source
Photo credit www.denverpost.com
