Politics

Colorado government remains in Democratic control

Colorado Democrats appear likely to keep control of the state Senate, thwarting GOP hopes of taking over the chamber while also holding the state House and governorship.

Sophie Quinton

11:40 AM, Nov 09, 2022

Colorado Governor Jared Polis speaks during a rally on the campus of Colorado State University-Pueblo on Sept. 28, 2022, in Pueblo, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Colorado Democrats appear likely to keep control of the state Senate, thwarting GOP hopes of taking over the chamber while also holding the state House and governorship.

“Colorado voters spoke loud and clear, and returned a strong Democratic majority to the Colorado State Senate,” Senate President Steve Fenberg (D) said in a statement to Pluribus News. “I am incredibly proud of all the work our candidates and supporters across the state put in to make tonight possible.”

“At this point we are waiting for the county clerks to complete the work,” Sen. Paul Lundeen (R), the Senate minority whip, said in a text message to Pluribus News. “Several counties with significant ballots to be reported say they will report this afternoon.”

Republicans held 9 of the 17 state Senate seats up for election in Colorado this year. They needed to flip four or more to gain control of the chamber. Instead, the returns as of Wednesday morning showed them losing two seats. Democrats could also expand their majority in the state House.

Gov. Jared Polis (D) easily won re-election over University of Colorado Regent Heidi Ganahl (R). He led 58%-40% with 80% of the vote in as of Wednesday morning.

Meanwhile, U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet (D) also cruised to re-election, holding a 55%-43% lead.

This story has been updated.