Former Representative Ken Buck Endorses Phil Weiser
The former GOP congressman and state party chair publicly supports Democratic gubernatorial candidate Phil Weiser.
Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Political Parties
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Former Colorado Congressman Ken Buck has announced his endorsement of Democrat Phil Weiser in the race for governor. Buck, who previously chaired the state Republican Party, released a video confirming his support for the Democratic candidate.
Why it matters
Buck cited Weiser’s work ethic, honesty, and commitment to Colorado residents as the primary reasons for his cross-party endorsement. The move signals a notable shift within the state's political landscape as GOP officials weigh in on the gubernatorial contest.
Ken Buck served five terms in Congress and formerly chaired the Colorado Republican Party. More than a dozen additional state and local GOP officials have joined in endorsing Phil Weiser for governor.
The players
Ken Buck
He is a former member of Congress who served five terms and previously held the position of chair for the Colorado Republican Party.
Phil Weiser
He is a candidate for governor of Colorado currently seeking to secure support across party lines.
The details
In a video message, Buck highlighted his personal regard for Weiser's character and professional dedication to the state. The endorsement is bolstered by support from over a dozen other local and state Republican officials.
Timeline
October 14, 2026: Ken Buck announced his endorsement of Phil Weiser for governor.
Political Context
This move highlights a sharp internal divide within the state GOP regarding the party's ideological direction. Opposition voices from within the Republican Party are likely to frame these cross-party endorsements as a betrayal of core conservative legislative principles.
This development could influence moderate voters by legitimizing a Democratic candidate through the lens of a former conservative leader. Taxpayers should monitor how these endorsements might shift the policy focus of the upcoming gubernatorial administration.
The takeaway
Voters should look past party labels to evaluate candidate character and individual records when assessing endorsements. Cross-party support often highlights specific policy alignments that transcend traditional partisan rhetoric.
Further reading
Learn more about the state's evolving political landscape at Political Parties.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Montrose Daily Press.
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