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Colorado Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer Launches 2026 Governor Bid With No-New-Taxes Pledge

Her entry tests a budget-focused message in a Democratic-leaning state with an open governor’s seat.

Colorado Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer speaks in the rotunda with fellow Republicans before a special session at the Colorado State Capitol in Denver on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
FORT LUPTON, CO – SEPTEMBER 9:State Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer announces her run for Colorado Governor during a press conference at the historic Fort Lupton replica on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. Kirkmeyer represents District 23 which covers parts of Larimer and Weld Counties. (Matthew Jonas/Staff Photographer)
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Overview

  • Kirkmeyer formally filed this week and announced her campaign at a Fort Lupton launch, promising not to raise taxes and vowing to tackle affordability, safety and roads.
  • She highlighted her service on the Joint Budget and Appropriations committees as proof of fiscal expertise and said the state must live within its means.
  • The Republican field is crowded, with registered candidates including Sen. Mark Baisley, Rep. Scott Bottoms, Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell and former Rep. Greg Lopez.
  • On the Democratic side, U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet and Attorney General Phil Weiser have filed, positioning them as leading potential general-election opponents.
  • Democrats quickly framed the race, with the DGA criticizing Kirkmeyer’s record and Weiser welcoming a debate, as Colorado faces an open seat after Gov. Jared Polis’s term limit and a two-decade GOP drought for the governorship.