A controversial conservative podcaster enters the race for Colorado governor
Joe Oltmann, known for promoting false election conspiracies and advocating for the execution of political opponents, including Gov. Jared Polis, has officially thrown his hat in the ring to become Colorado’s next governor, despite his history of undermining the electoral system.
With 22 Republicans currently vying for the party’s nomination, this gubernatorial primary field is the largest in Colorado this century, as the GOP aims to challenge Democrats’ stronghold in the state.
While the primary field is expected to narrow down in the coming months, only a handful of candidates are likely to make it onto the ballot, either through the state assembly or by gathering signatures.
On the Democratic side, a smaller field of seven candidates, led by Attorney General Phil Weiser and U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, is competing for the nomination now that Polis is term-limited.
Looking ahead to 2026, only a few Republican candidates are considered credible contenders, including Oltmann, state Sens. Barbara Kirkmeyer and Mark Baisley, state Rep. Scott Bottoms, ministry leader Victor Marx, Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell, and former Congressman Greg Lopez.
Many of these candidates have shown support for election conspiracies or advocated for a pardon for Tina Peters, the former Mesa County clerk convicted of providing unauthorized access to voting equipment.
Oltmann has repeatedly spread false claims about the 2020 election results and made inflammatory remarks about his political opponents, even suggesting violence against them, though he later claimed to be joking.
In his announcement video, Oltmann baselessly accused Democrats of winning power in Colorado through election fraud and targeted Jewish officials like Polis and Secretary of State Jena Griswold.
Despite his controversial statements, Oltmann outlined his platform to eliminate property taxes, focus on the less fortunate, and pardon Peters, aligning himself with former President Donald Trump’s efforts to release her through a federal pardon.
While some view Oltmann’s candidacy as a nonstarter, others see it as a reflection of the challenges Republicans face in winning statewide races in Colorado, where Democrats have dominated recent elections.
As the 2026 election approaches, both Democrats and Republicans are strategizing to navigate shifting voter sentiments and party approval ratings in the state.
While the road to victory may be challenging for any Republican candidate next year, some believe that a candidate who can avoid divisive rhetoric and focus on key issues may have a chance to appeal to voters.
Ultimately, the success of the GOP in 2026 will depend on selecting a candidate who can resonate with voters and steer clear of controversial conspiracy theories and polarizing figures.
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