Move over, Jared Polis, there’s soon to be a new gov in town.
OK, so 2026 is still two years away. But the 2024 Biden vs. Trump rematch is oh-so-boring and Polis is driving me nuts. Is it too much to ask for inspiration?
There’s been a lot of chatter on who might fill Polis’ blue shoes. My own Rep. Joe Neguse is long-rumored to be among them, although personally I never thought he’d run given his federal potential. This appears to be panning out with his new appointment among House Democrats, and chances of a gubernatorial run seem ever lower. Still, a gal can hope.
Then there are the obvious choices: Denver’s new Mayor Mike Johnston and Secretary of State Jena Griswold. Both have eyed the position since practically infancy and both are likely to run, even though Johnston has promised not to on the heels of his election. Regardles, I want neither. Both are run-of-the-mill at best and give off major power-trip vibes, with Griswold especially having repeatedly ruffled feathers with her subordinates. Democrats can do better.
There’s also a mile-long list of wannabe governors that include Sen. Chris Hansen, Rep. Leslie Herod and so on. Again, this isn’t where we’ll find the right person for the job.
The better question is this: Who aren’t we talking about that we should be? Who is too modest, too collaborative and too diligent that they’ve been overlooked despite copious credentials? This is especially true in electing women – something Coloradans have never done for governor – as research shows women often need to be asked and encouraged. So let’s encourage them.
First up, Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez. This current At Large Denver City Councilwoman packs an unassuming punch with local and state service, including two years as Assistant Majority Leader in the state House and over 60 pieces of legislation passed. She also has a long history of public service, often flying under the radar with roles related to child welfare, juvenile justice and domestic violence.
Best of all, she appears most focused on helping others rather than attracting attention to herself, works well with others and is a multi-generational Coloradan raising three kids with her husband. Working mom for the win?
Speaking of formidable working moms, Colorado’s former Speaker of the House and current Region 8 Administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency K.C. Becker is a force to be reckoned with.
With over 18 years of local, state and federal experience, including multiple top leadership roles, Becker has somewhat quietly and practically become a champion of climate and environment. Under her current appointment by President Joe Biden, she has helped to usher in some of the strongest pollution enforcement in recent years, and if Coloradans are serious about a better and cleaner future, Becker might be just the woman to help make it happen.
Another powerhouse to watch is Pueblo County Commissioner Daneya Esgar. After eight years of service in the state House, including leadership roles as House Majority Leader and Chair of the Joint Budget Committee, Esgar is a fierce advocate for equity, everyday workers and affordability – issues at the top of Coloradan’s minds. Particularly given Pueblo’s influence on state races, Esgar could be the boost Democrats need to secure a decisive victory.
There are a few more names I’d like to hear in 2026 conversations: Sen. Janet Buckner brings copious heart, experience and commitment that inspires. Former Sen. Angela Williams, who ran for U.S. Senate in 2020, is a trailblazer who rarely gets the credit she deserves.
And last but certainly not least, former State Treasurer and gubernatorial candidate Cary Kennedy – yes, that Cary Kennedy – would be great to see run again. Coloradans missed a big opportunity when Democrats passed her over for Polis. Hopefully they wouldn’t make the same mistake twice.
Of course, whether or not these incredible women and many others have interest in running is up to them, but how we will know unless we make it possible by talking about them? There’s no doubt that each would bring an excellent skillset and voice to the primary race, and those conversations matter as much or more as who is elected. It’s an important reminder that who we talk about, how we talk about them and who we don’t talk about often becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy to who can or can’t win.
So this time let’s make sure to broaden our scope, because Colorado Democrats have a lot of obvious choices right now, but obvious doesn’t mean better. And when it comes to Colorado’s next governor, we should settle for nothing less than the best.
Trish Zornio is a scientist, lecturer and writer who has worked at some of the nation’s top universities and hospitals. She’s an avid rock climber and was a 2020 candidate for the U.S. Senate in Colorado.
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