As the 2026 election cycle begins, an unusually large number of Colorado lawmakers — many appointed through the vacancy process — are facing primary challenges that reflect deepening divisions within both major parties.

The stakes for the 2026 election and legislative session are enormous and the outcomes will determine Colorado's future political landscape. State of play: Here are five storylines we're watching. 1.

Grab your popcorn, it’s going to be an interesting 2026 legislative session in Colorado. There’s not much you can count on these days, but if you’ve been around the Capitol long enough, you’ve probably seen your fair share of disagreements,

Every single seat in the Colorado House of Representatives and about half of seats in the Colorado Senate will be on the ballot this year. Democrats have controlled both chambers of the state Legislature since 2019.

The $95 million a year voters approved when they passed Proposition MM in November is expected to generate enough to fund the Health School Meals for All program. But it might still go back to the ballot.

Michael Allen becomes the sole Republican running in the field to succeed Attorney General Phil Weiser, who’s running for governor.

Colorado has permanently adopted several election law changes that will affect how elections are conducted across the state.The changes include enhanced outreach to young and new voters, updated security measures and expanded language access for voters.

Tina Peters, the former Colorado elections clerk who has been at the center of a political fight between President Trump and Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D), is asking a state appeals court to