Senator Michael Bennet Poised to Enter Colorado Governor’s Race, Eyeing Democratic Momentum

Democratic Senator Michael Bennet is reportedly preparing to run for governor of Colorado, according to sources familiar with his plans. Bennet, who secured a third term in the Senate with a 15-point victory, is expected to announce his candidacy soon, aiming to succeed the term-limited Democratic Governor Jared Polis. Colorado has shown a trend towards Democratic support in recent years, with former Vice President Kamala Harris winning the state by nine percentage points in the last election and Polis securing a second term in 2022 with a 19-point margin.

Bennet’s potential gubernatorial bid comes amidst a series of recent retirement announcements from Senate Democrats, indicating a shift among some members of the party. Despite his current Senate term running until 2028, Bennet has the option to run for governor while retaining his Senate seat. His decision to pursue the governorship reflects a broader trend of Democratic politicians seeking roles outside of Washington.

In related developments, Kathleen Sgamma, director of the Western Energy Alliance, withdrew her nomination to lead the Interior Department’s Bureau of Land Management. Sgamma, who has been an advocate for expanding oil and natural gas drilling and mining on public lands, withdrew just before her confirmation hearing. Her withdrawal highlights ongoing debates over energy policies and land management, particularly in the context of the Trump administration’s approach to these issues.

As Bennet prepares to enter the gubernatorial race, the political landscape in Colorado continues to evolve. The state’s recent electoral outcomes suggest a favorable environment for Democratic candidates, potentially benefiting Bennet’s campaign. His entry into the race will likely shape the political discourse in Colorado, as he seeks to build on the Democratic momentum established by Governor Polis and other party leaders.