Michael Bennet is the Wrong Choice for Colorado’s Next Governor
Denver, CO – The Colorado Congressional District 1 Republican Party strongly opposes Senator Michael Bennet’s candidacy for governor. His disconnect from the problems Coloradans face, his elite donor network, and his troubling record as a U.S. Senator are a few reasons he is unfit to lead our state. For Colorado families seeking a governor who prioritizes their needs, Bennet’s history raises serious concerns about his ability to represent all Coloradans.
A Washington Insider, Not a Coloradan at Heart
Born in India and raised in Washington, D.C., among Democratic Party elites, Michael Bennet has spent over 15 years in the U.S. Senate, far removed from the daily challenges facing Colorado families. Despite moving to Colorado in 1997, his career has been defined by Washington politics, not the needs of Colorado. As Brandon Wark noted in Free State Colorado, “Bennet is a member of the Washington DC Democratic Establishment who has no connections to Colorado other than political appointments.”
Bankrolled by Billionaires, Not Backed by Individuals
Bennet’s campaigns have been fueled by billionaire donors, including Walmart heiress Christy Walton and hedge fund manager Jim Simons, with 32 billionaires backing his 2020 presidential run. His top contributors, including Blackstone Group, show he will prioritize corporate interests over working families. With a personal net worth of $15 million, Bennet’s wealth and elite ties raise doubts about his ability to understand the problems Coloradans and local businesses face.
Failed Leadership in Education
As superintendent of Denver Public Schools from 2005 to 2009, Bennet pushed controversial reforms, including a pay-for-performance system that sparked dissent and contributed to a teachers’ strike in 2019. Critics called his appointment political and noted his lack of education experience. Given his tenure, families seeking a governor who can strengthen schools should question Bennet’s ability to deliver.
A Record of Divisive Priorities
Bennet’s Senate record includes troubling votes that clash with Colorado values. His support for state-controlled social media oversight through the Digital Platform Commission Act threatens free speech, a concern for Americans valuing their 1st amendment speech. Additionally, his vote against nullifying Biden’s employer vaccine mandate in 2021 ignored workers’ rights, a mistake that hurt many businesses in Colorado.
Colorado Deserves Better
The Colorado CD 1 GOP calls on voters to reject Michael Bennet’s gubernatorial bid. His Washington insider status, billionaire backing, and policies favoring elites over families make him a poor choice to lead our state. Colorado needs a governor who lives our values, understands our struggles, and puts families first—not one tied to D.C. and corporate interests.
We urge Coloradans to choose a leader with deep roots in our communities, not a career politician beholden to the establishment. Bennet’s record shows he’s out of touch with the needs of Colorado.