government
How the Western Slope voted in Colorado’s primary elections for governor
By Robert Tann Follow
rtann@aspentimes.com at Aspen Times
· July 1, 2026
· 1 min read
Colorado’s urban-rural divide was on display in Tuesday’s primary elections for governor.
Amid a surge in voter turnout, the bulk of candidates’ votes were largely concentrated either along the populous Front Range corridor, or in smaller western and eastern communities.
On the Democratic ...
Key takeaway Amid a surge in voter turnout, the bulk of candidates’ votes were largely concentrated either along the populous Front Range corridor, or in smaller western and eastern communities.
Why this matters in Aspen News
The close margin between Weiser and Bennet in Pitkin County, with Bennet leading by just 73 votes, reflects the nuanced political landscape of the Roaring Fork Valley. This divide is not surprising, given the area's mix of long-time residents, newcomers, and a thriving tourism industry that brings diverse perspectives to the community. The fact that Bennet outperformed Weiser in Pitkin County, as well as in neighboring Summit, Routt, and Moffat counties, suggests that Western Slope voters may be seeking a candidate who understands the unique challenges and opportunities of rural Colorado. As the general election approaches, it will be worth watching how the candidates engage with local issues, such as managing growth, protecting public lands, and addressing the area's affordable housing crisis, to win over voters in Pitkin County and across the Western Slope.
About this story
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Category: government ·
Published: July 1, 2026 ·
Source: Aspen Times ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Colorado’s urban-rural divide was on display in Tuesday’s primary elections for governor.
Amid a surge in voter turnout, the bulk of candidates’ votes were largely concentrated either along the populous Front Range corridor, or in smaller western and eastern communities.
On the Democratic ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 1, 2026 by Aspen Times and curated for Aspen News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Robert Tann Follow
rtann@aspentimes.com at Aspen Times. To learn more about how Aspen News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more government coverage from Aspen News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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