elections

Community organizer Rebecca Busic has entered the Montezuma County commissioner race, adding a Democratic candidate to a field previously made up of Republicans.

State Sen. Mark Baisley is leaving the race to run instead for U.S. Senate. Former U.S. Rep. Greg Lopez has left the GOP to become unaffiliated.

The City of Cortez is holding an information session for residents considering a run for City Council, as nomination deadlines approach for the April election.

A new Colorado poll finds independent voters distrust both parties, want more moderation, and are most concerned about housing costs, taxes, and polarization.

A federal magistrate has dismissed former Mesa County clerk Tina Peters’ request to be released on bond while she appeals her 2024 conviction. Peters, serving a nine-year sentence related to illegal access to county voting machines, argued federal issues warranted intervention. The judge ruled that state appeals must be completed first, noting that any potential First Amendment errors could be addressed in state court.

The Opportunity Caucus lawmakers face allegations they violated the state’s gift ban by attending a Vail retreat with lobbyists paid for by dark money.

Federal officials have requested Tina Peters be moved from a Colorado state prison to a federal facility as she appeals her conviction, citing safety concerns.

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser, who’s running for governor in 2026, says he supports a push to redraw the state’s congressional districts before the next census — a major break from Colorado Democrats’ usual defense of the state’s independent redistricting commission. Weiser argues the move is needed to counter extreme gerrymanders in Republican-led states. The proposal, which would require a constitutional amendment, would let the governor appoint a temporary commission to redraw maps. Governor Jared Polis and Senator Michael Bennet have both expressed skepticism about the plan.

This November, voters in the Mancos School District will decide whether to approve a Mill Levy Override—a property tax increase that would raise about $600,000 annually to support teacher and paraprofessional salaries. District leaders say the measure would help attract and retain staff and improve student outcomes, while opponents cite concerns about higher property taxes. The proposed levy would not expire, ensuring long-term funding stability for Mancos schools.

Voters in Montezuma County will have several local questions to answer in November’s election, depending on where they live.