6-24-26 Republican U.S. Senate Nominee Mark Baisley Weighs In on Colorado Democratic Primary

As Colorado’s Democratic U.S. Senate primary continues to take shape, State Senator Julie Gonzales has gained attention for positioning herself as a more progressive alternative to incumbent U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper. Recent polling has shown Gonzales increasing her support among Democratic primary voters as some within the party express concerns about Senator Hickenlooper’s age, effectiveness, and willingness to embrace more progressive policy proposals.

Gonzales has criticized what she describes as “incremental” approaches to policy and has advocated for significant changes to federal immigration policy, including replacing ICE with a new agency that would increase judicial capacity and expand pathways to citizenship. Her policy approach mirrors a legislative record that often favors expanded government involvement and public spending. In 2023, Gonzales sponsored HB23B-1001 during Colorado’s special legislative session, which appropriated $30 million in state funding for emergency rental assistance programs.

Republican U.S. Senate nominee and State Senator Mark Baisley expressed concern over Gonzales’ governing philosophy.

“Julie Gonzales’ Mamdani-style approach to government reflects a belief that more spending, programs, and government intervention are the answers to nearly every problem. From the Eastern Plains to the Western Slope, Coloradans are looking for workable solutions, economic opportunity, and accountable government. We cannot afford policies that expand government while making everyday life more expensive for working families.”

Baisley has served four years in the Colorado House of Representatives and four years in the Colorado Senate. Throughout his legislative service, he has earned a reputation as a principled conservative willing to work across the aisle while remaining committed to constitutional government, fiscal responsibility, and policies that empower individuals rather than expand bureaucracy.

As Colorado voters prepare for the 2026 election, the contrast between competing visions for the state’s future continues to sharpen.