Senator Michael Bennet is poised to run for governor of Colorado, stepping into a strong Democratic race with solid political credentials. His candidacy reflects a broader trend of prominent Democrats turning toward state-level leadership as national gridlock continues.
INTRODUCTION: A Senator Shifts Focus to State Leadership
Senator Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) is expected to launch his campaign for governor of Colorado on Friday. The announcement, according to two anonymous sources close to his campaign, signals a major development in the upcoming gubernatorial race.
BACKGROUND: From Education to the U.S. Senate
Michael Bennet, once superintendent of Denver Public Schools, has served in the U.S. Senate since 2009. Initially appointed to replace Ken Salazar, Bennet has won three elections, solidifying his political stature in Colorado—a state that has leaned increasingly Democratic in recent years.
CURRENT POLITICAL CONTEXT: Strong Frontrunner Emerges
Bennet enters a field previously led by Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser, who had raised $1.9 million in early 2025. With Bennet’s entry, he becomes the presumed frontrunner to succeed term-limited Governor Jared Polis.
🇺🇸 NATIONAL TREND: A Shift Away from Washington
Bennet’s move mirrors a broader trend among Senate Democrats. Senators Gary Peters (Mich.), Tina Smith (Minn.), and Jeanne Shaheen (N.H.) have already announced retirements. Frustrated with federal gridlock, Bennet recently stated that political solutions may now come from states rather than Washington, D.C.
INSIDE THE PARTY: Quiet Criticism of Democratic Leadership
While Bennet has not openly challenged Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, he has expressed concern about the Democratic Party’s strategic direction. This candid perspective adds depth to his decision to pursue executive office at the state level.
POLITICAL LANDSCAPE: A Safer Seat in a Deepening Blue State
Bennet’s past electoral success—most recently a comfortable re-election in 2022—reflects Colorado’s Democratic shift. With his experience and profile, Bennet is likely to shape the race early and may deter other prominent contenders from joining.
OFFICIAL POSITION: Silence from Bennet’s Camp
Despite growing speculation, a spokesperson for Bennet declined to comment, maintaining silence ahead of the anticipated announcement on Friday.
FINAL THOUGHTS: What This Means for Colorado and the Democrats
Bennet’s candidacy could realign state priorities while reinforcing the message that state governments are emerging as key arenas for Democratic leadership. His pivot from federal to state office is both symbolic and strategic.
COMMENTS