Robert Preuhs

Colorado's 2026 primary election saw the highest voter turnout since at least 2018, excluding the 2020 pandemic year, with 36.2% turnout. Democrats slightly outpaced Republicans by 6.7% of total voters, and a close gubernatorial race remains undecided between Republican candidates Barbara Kirkmeyer and Victor Marx.

Democratic socialists are achieving notable election victories in urban areas like New York City and Colorado, with figures such as Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Melat Kiros gaining prominence. The movement emphasizes policies like Medicare for All and housing for all, though experts note challenges in expanding beyond deep blue urban regions to rural and suburban voters ahead of the 2028 presidential election.

Colorado's 2026 primary election has the highest voter turnout since at least 2018, excluding the 2020 pandemic election. Voter turnout was 36.2%, with 1,457,832 ballots returned and a nearly even split between Democratic and Republican voters. A close race remains between Republican candidates for governor, Barbara Kirkmeyer and Victor Marx.

Colorado's primary election voter turnout is higher than past years, with over a million ballots returned. Democratic ballots currently outnumber Republican ones, according to the Secretary of State's Office. Experts and voters emphasize the importance of primary elections in selecting candidates for general elections.