Colorado Candidates Declined Numerous Debate Invitations
Gubernatorial and congressional hopefuls are increasingly bypassing traditional televised debates this election cycle.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Elections
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Republican gubernatorial candidate Victor Marx has refused multiple debate invitations, including an appearance at the Club 20 meeting in Grand Junction. Marx joins several other Colorado candidates in bypassing traditional debates in favor of alternative messaging strategies.
Why it matters
Televised debates carry significant risks of unforced errors that can damage a campaign's momentum. Consequently, many candidates are opting to communicate via short, shareable video clips rather than engaging in direct confrontations with opponents.
Five of 10 closely watched gubernatorial races currently have no debates scheduled. This represents an increase in debate avoidance compared to four years ago, when only two of 10 such races lacked a debate.
The players
Victor Marx
He is the Republican candidate for governor of Colorado.
Phil Weiser
He is the Colorado Attorney General who dismissed a proposal for a one-on-one debate with Victor Marx.
Manny Rutinel
He is a political candidate who declined a primetime television debate for a seat in the 8th Congressional District.
Gabe Evans
He is a candidate who joined his opponent in declining a primetime televised debate for the 8th Congressional District.
Jena Griswold
She is the Colorado Secretary of State who refused a televised debate against her opponent, Michael Allen.
The details
Candidates are increasingly relying on party resources and super PACs to manage opposition research and messaging rather than engaging in live debates. Beyond the gubernatorial race, candidates like Manny Rutinel and Gabe Evans have declined primetime TV debates in the 8th Congressional District, while Secretary of State Jena Griswold refused a televised debate with Michael Allen.
Timeline
September 2026: Candidates are currently refusing debate invitations.
2022: Only two of 10 gubernatorial races lacked debates.
Political Context
Opposition parties and some local civic groups argue that declining debates undermines transparency and denies voters the chance to see candidates face direct scrutiny. Critics contend that relying on curated video clips prevents the robust public exchange necessary for a healthy democratic process.
The absence of traditional debates means voters may have fewer opportunities to see candidates field unscripted questions or address policy differences in real time. Residents will need to rely more heavily on digital campaign materials and third-party resources to vet those appearing on the ballot.
The takeaway
Voters should actively seek out candidate forums and non-partisan voter guides to gain a complete picture of the platforms being presented. Relying solely on official campaign videos may result in a skewed understanding of each candidate's policy priorities.
Further reading
For more on the current state of the race, visit the Colorado Elections page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Axios.
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