Thursday, February 19, 2026

Colorado Republican Mark Baisley exits gubernatorial race, launches US Senate

Republican state Sen. Mark Baisley has shaken up the Colorado political landscape with his recent announcement to withdraw from the gubernatorial race and instead, run for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Democrat John Hickenlooper. This unexpected move has left the field open for 20 other Republican candidates to vie for the state’s top office.

Baisley, who has represented Colorado’s Senate District 18 since 2018, made the decision on Monday to shift his focus to the U.S. Senate race, citing the need for strong leadership and representation in Washington D.C. “I am honored to announce my candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat and I am fully committed to fighting for the people of Colorado at the federal level,” he stated.

The decision to leave the gubernatorial race was not an easy one for Baisley, who had been campaigning tirelessly for the position over the past few months. However, he believes that his experience and dedication to serving the people of Colorado would be better utilized at the federal level. With the current political climate and pressing issues, Baisley believes that Colorado needs a strong voice in the U.S. Senate to protect the interests of its citizens.

Baisley’s departure from the race has opened up the field for 20 other Republican candidates, each with their own unique visions and plans for the future of Colorado. While this may seem like a crowded field, it also speaks to the enthusiasm and determination of the Republican party to bring about positive change in the state.

Baisley’s decision to run for the U.S. Senate seat held by Hickenlooper is a strategic move by the Republican party. Hickenlooper, a former Colorado governor, has been a popular figure in the state and is widely considered a strong contender for the Senate seat. However, with Baisley’s entry into the race, the Democrats may have a tough fight on their hands.

In his announcement, Baisley highlighted the need for a senator who will prioritize the needs and concerns of the people of Colorado over party politics. He believes that Hickenlooper, who has been out of office since 2018, has lost touch with the issues facing the state and its citizens. “Colorado deserves a senator who will put the needs of the people above their own political ambitions,” Baisley stated.

Throughout his time as a state senator, Baisley has been a vocal advocate for issues such as education, healthcare, and small business growth. He has also been a strong supporter of Second Amendment rights and has worked towards reducing government regulations. These are just some of the many issues that he plans to focus on in his campaign for the U.S. Senate seat.

Baisley’s entry into the U.S. Senate race has been met with enthusiasm and support from fellow Republicans. Many see him as a strong contender who can challenge Hickenlooper and bring about much-needed change in Washington D.C. “I am confident that Mark Baisley will make an excellent senator and I am excited to support his campaign,” said one supporter.

As Baisley shifts his focus towards the U.S. Senate race, he remains committed to serving his constituents in Senate District 18 until his term ends in 2022. He also expressed his gratitude to his supporters and the people of Colorado, stating that he will continue to work tirelessly to make the state a better place for all.

In conclusion, Republican state Sen. Mark Baisley’s decision to withdraw from the Colorado gubernatorial race and run for the U.S. Senate seat has energized the Republican party and opened up the field for other candidates. With his experience, dedication, and focus on the needs of the people, Baisley is a strong contender who will bring fresh perspectives and positive change to the state of Colorado. The race for the U.S. Senate seat just got more interesting and we look forward to seeing how Baisley’s campaign unfolds in the coming months.

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