U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser (D-CO) debated the Democratic Party's declining popularity during a televised event Thursday.
The discussion highlights internal party friction and a struggle to retain unaffiliated voters as the candidates vie for the governorship. With confidence slipping among the party base, the debate serves as a critical window into how Democrats plan to regain momentum before the general election.
The event took place in Denver and was hosted by The Gazette and Colorado Politics in partnership with 9NEWS and the University of Denver. While Colorado Public Radio reported a date of May 7 [3], The Gazette reported the debate occurred on June 4, 2026 [2].
During the face-off, the candidates addressed why the party is losing confidence among both registered Democrats and unaffiliated voters. The two men differed on the most effective tactics to use against Donald Trump and how to pivot the party's messaging to better suit the current economic climate.
Bennet and Weiser used the platform to pitch their respective platforms as they prepare for the Democratic gubernatorial primary. The primary election is scheduled for June 30, 2026 [1].
The debate focused on the perceived disconnect between party leadership and the needs of the electorate. By addressing the unpopularity of the party directly, the candidates sought to demonstrate an awareness of voter dissatisfaction, a move intended to signal a willingness to evolve the party's approach in Colorado.
“Democratic Party is losing confidence among Democrats and unaffiliated voters”
The public disagreement between Bennet and Weiser reflects a broader strategic divide within the Democratic Party regarding whether to prioritize aggressive opposition to Trump or focus on a positive, economy-driven platform to attract independent voters. This tension suggests that the June 30 primary will be as much a referendum on party identity as it is a choice between two candidates.
