Controversial Rep. Lauren Boebert says she’ll skip a special election to fill the Colorado seat that maverick Republican Rep. Ken Buck is giving up next week, but will still compete in a GOP primary in the district.
Denouncing the June 25 special election for the solidly Republican CO-04 as a “swampy backroom deal,” Boebert said she will instead run in what is shaping up as a crowded GOP primary that will be held on the same date.
Republican voters will decide the winner of the primary, who will be heavily favored to win the Colorado Springs-based district in November against a Democrat.
Party leaders will handpick the candidates in the special election, potentially giving the Republican pick an edge over Boebert and others in the primary held at the same time.
The MAGA hardliner now represents the swingy CO-03 district in the western part of the state, but decided to switch to the much-safer CO-04.
Buck had already said he wouldn’t run for reelection in November. But on Tuesday, he announced he will instead step down next week. His resignation cuts the GOP majority to just five seats.
Boebert has sparked controversy over her far right-wing views and bizarre behavior, including being caught vaping and fondling her boyfriend during a theater performance in Denver.
