Current Overview of the 2024 Election Cycle

Current Overview of the 2024 Election Cycle

As the calendar pages turn towards another election cycle, we start to focus on Douglas County's politics and the broader national elections. Key election dates are rapidly approaching, and I urge our members to engage at any level possible this year. The Douglas County Republican Party (DCGOP) is actively seeking volunteers to assist with Caucus and Assembly responsibilities. It's an enjoyable and fulfilling way to meet and collaborate with like-minded conservatives. If you're interested in contributing, please visit the DCGOP website at https://dcgop.org. Alternatively, you can email me directly, and I will facilitate the connection. You'll likely see my wife Pam and me at these events, and we look forward to meeting many of you there.

Important Notice to All Candidates:

Your participation in the County or State Assembly processes is essential. Without it, the Parker Conservatives will not provide you with a platform to speak after the Assembly before the State Primary election slated for June 25, 2024. While attendance at Parker Conservatives is open to all conservatives, HD 44 Anthony Hartsook's eligibility remains contingent upon that apology to his HD 44 constituents for his vote for the Democrat Statehouse Chairperson.*

• Colorado Presidential Primary Election – March 5, 2024

• Douglas County Caucus – March 7, 2024

• Douglas County Assembly – March 23, 2024

• Colorado State Assembly – April 6, 2024

• Colorado State Primary Election – June 25, 2024

• General Election – November 5, 2024

Parker Town Council

The upcoming Parker Town Council election in November 2024 is critical for maintaining the town's conservative values. With seats vacated / up of election by:

• John Diak (Term Limited)

• Laura Hefta (incumbent)

• Todd Hendreks (incumbent)

There's a clear need for candidates who respect the Constitution, embody limited government, and uphold individual liberties. This election transcends partisanship, and it's about safeguarding Parker from rampant development and preserving its unique character against a backdrop of rapid expansion that threatens to turn it into a faceless suburb. The call is for principled leaders who resist the pressures to conform and defend the town's autonomy against progressive and socialist ideologies. Just remember we gave (1) seat in the last election to a Democrat, Brandi Wilks. We must NOT give up any ground in 2024! At this time, no information on candidates was available.

Town of Parker Mayor

Mayor Jeff Toborg's tenure has been a testament to conservative leadership. The proposed repeal of the grocery sales tax is a clear example of his forward-thinking governance, a policy that respects the financial well-being of every Parker resident.

• Jeff Toborg (incumbent)

As we stand on the cusp of this critical election, we must not waver in our resolve. The choice, continue with a proven leader in Mayor Toborg or risk a regression to policies that have deteriorated cities like Aurora. This is not a time for complacency, it's a call to action. Every vote for Mayor Toborg is a safeguard against the encroachment of failed policies and a vote for a prosperous, thriving Parker. We must mobilize with conviction to ensure Mayor Toborg's re-election. Our community's legacy and our children's future depend on it. At this time, no information on candidates was available.

Douglas County Commissioner District 3 Race Heats Up:

Three Republicans have thrown their hats into the ring, with a Democrat expected to announce shortly. Priscilla, who began her campaign early, reports a robust campaign fund of $69,668.06. Kevin and John are more recent entries to the race, and their campaign strategies and funding are developing. I will be closely monitoring their progress, particularly with regard to contributions from our distinguished Water Commission appointees.

District 3 – Incumbent, Lora Thomas (R), term-limited

• John Carson (R)

• Priscilla Rahn (R)

• Kevin Van Winkle (R)

Douglas County Commissioner District 2:

Incumbent George Teal currently faces no Republican challengers "yet", though a Democrat has entered the contest. Teal's war chest stands at $90,397.32 as of the last report. However, according to an informal survey I conducted, about one in four have a negative perception of him, a sentiment that stems primarily from the actions of all three sitting commissioners. A strong Republican challenger could seriously test Teal's incumbency in the Primary.

District 2 – Incumbent – George Teal (R)

• George Teal (R)

• Angela Thomas (D)

Douglas County District Attorney Race for the New 23rd District:

With the departure of John Kellner, Dagna Van Der Jagt (R) is our only declared candidate. In our sole meeting, she struck me as a steadfast conservative.

A couple of key issues for any viable candidates, opposing Colorado’s Red Flag law, homelessness in Douglas County, and School Saftey, will likely be significant platforms in this race. We expect more candidates to announce their intentions soon.

• Dagna Van Der Jagt (R)

House District 39 – Brandi Bradley's Uncontested Incumbency:

Representative Brandi Bradley (R), a standout member of the freshman class of 2022, is currently running unopposed. District 39 is indeed fortunate to have such a committed representative. We anticipate the entry of a Dem candidate as the election draws closer.

• Brandi Bradley (R)

House District 43 – Seeking Republican Redemption:

After a 2022 defeat, it is critical that Republicans recapture this seat. We are hopeful that a strong, grassroots conservative will step forward. Bob Marshall (D) has not filed for re-election as of December 16th, but the expectation is that he will.

• Bob Marshall (D) (not on Tracer at this time)

House District 44 – The Incumbency of Anthony Hartsook (R):

Anthony Hartsook (R) faces a Democrat in the race for his seat. His previous campaign strategies and his choice to forgo the Assembly process will likely be scrutinized by voters and potential challengers alike. A good solid grassroots conservative in this district could unseat the incumbent at the County Assembly. Who is willing to run?

• Anthony Hartsook (R)

• Alyssa Nilemo (D)

House District 45 and State Senate District 2 – Seats in Transition:

With Lisa Frizell (R) shifting her focus to the State Senate District 2 race, the House District 45 seat is open for contenders. The field is currently narrow, but this is likely to change.

House District 45 – Incumbent, Lisa Frizell – Now running for State Senate District 2

• Max Brooks (R)

Senator District 2 – Incumbent, Jim Smallwood (R), term-limited

• Lisa Frizell (R)

Colorado House District 4 – A Crowded Field:

With the incumbent, Ken Buck (R), not seeking re-election, a diverse array of candidates is vying for the position. Strong Douglas County candidates include Deborah Flora and Ted Harvey. Key to this race will be the ability to secure funding and connect with the electorate across the counties CD4 represents. The wild card is possibly gaining the endorsement of Donald J. Trump, which could be a game-changer. Candidates will be challenged by voters in this district on a few areas that are more about understanding their support of President Trump:

• Where do you stand on the 2020 election? On the up and up, or rigged?

• Where do you stand on J6? Insurrection or demonstration gone wrong?

• Did President Trump incite the J6 individuals to cause havoc?

• Is the government overstepping in working to convict President Trump of crimes?

A misstep in answering any of these questions will cost the candidate the primary. No, it’s not all about Trump, it is about his supporters and voters. Without them, a CD 4 candidate will NOT be successful. You also can’t overlook the importance of an adept Campaign Manager. This cannot be overstated in steering through Colorado's fickle Republican voters.

• Lauren Boebert (R)

• Mariel Bailey (R)

• Deborah Flora (R)

• Ted Harvey (R)

• Richard Holtorf (R)

• Trent Leisy (R)

• Justin Schreiber (R)

• Jerry Sonnenberg (R)

• Peter Yu (R)

• Douglas Mangeris (L)

• Isaac McCorkle (D)

• John Padora (D)

• Karen Breslin (D)

EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA!

Representative Lauren Boebert's strategic shift from Colorado's 3rd to the 4th Congressional District, one cannot overlook her remarkable DC voting record as per Turning Point Action's ratings:

• Lauren Boebert – 95.09 (Patriot)

• Doug Lamborn – 88.39 (Losing Patriotism)

• Ken Buck – 87.95 (Losing Patriotism)

• Yadira Caraveo – 31.94 (Becoming Tyrannical)

• Brittany Pettersen – 25.00 (Becoming Tyrannical)

• Joe Neguse – 15.18 (Tyrant)

• Jason Crow - 14.73 (Tyrant)

• Diana Degette – 12.5 (Tyrant)

Her move, while initially perplexing, underscores her resilience and adaptability. Boebert's decision to move to a district with a stronger Republican lean, CD4, compared to her current district's CD3. This speaks to her tactical acumen in ensuring her political survival and the continuity of her conservative agenda.

Boebert's current $1.4 million campaign fund is a testament to her fundraising prowess, setting a high bar for her competitors in the 4th District. Her move also hints at a strategic retreat for a more favorable battleground, thereby bolstering the GOP's position in both districts.

This move comes after a series of personal and public controversies, suggesting a fresh start for Boebert and a chance to refocus on her legislative priorities away from the limelight that has followed her in the 3rd District. Her relocation is not just a response to political challenges but also can be seen as a proactive step towards strengthening conservative representation in Colorado, marking a calculated and potentially savvy political maneuver.