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Charles Evanson

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Charles Evanson
Image of Charles Evanson

Unaffiliated

Candidate, Governor of Colorado

Elections and appointments
Next election

November 3, 2026

Education

High school

Montezuma-Cortez High School

Military

Service / branch

U.S. Marine Corps

Years of service

2000 - 2020

Personal
Birthplace
Durango, Colo.
Religion
Christ Follower
Profession
Military officer
Contact

Charles Evanson (unaffiliated) (also known as Chaz) is running for election for Governor of Colorado. He declared candidacy for the general election scheduled on November 3, 2026.[source]

Evanson completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Charles Evanson was born in Durango, Colorado. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2000 to 2020 as a U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 4. He graduated from Montezuma-Cortez High School and attended the Marine Corps University. His career experience includes working as a military officer. He has been affiliated with the Marine Corps Association.[1]

Elections

2026

See also: Colorado gubernatorial and lieutenant gubernatorial election, 2026

General election

The primary will occur on June 30, 2026. The general election will occur on November 3, 2026. Additional general election candidates will be added here following the primary.

General election for Governor of Colorado

The following candidates are running in the general election for Governor of Colorado on November 3, 2026.


Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Governor of Colorado

David Hughes is running in the Democratic primary for Governor of Colorado on June 30, 2026.


Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Endorsements

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Campaign themes

2026

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Charles Evanson completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Evanson's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Chaz Evanson is a retired U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 4 with over 20 years of decorated service in combat logistics, operations planning, and leadership development. He served multiple deployments in OIF and OEF, where he was entrusted with overseeing mission-critical assets, leading Marines in high-stakes environments, and making life-or-death decisions under pressure. His military career was marked by honor, discipline, and an unshakable commitment to service.

A devoted husband, father, homesteader, and follower of Jesus Christ, Chaz lives by faith, conviction, and the founding principles that once made this nation great. He believes liberty begins at home, with strong families, honest work, and personal responsibility. After retiring from the military, he returned to Colorado to fight for its future and to help restore the Republic. As an unaffiliated candidate for Governor, Chaz is not running to serve a party, but to serve the people.

His campaign is built on three pillars: Restore, Reform, and Protect. He is passionate about defending parental rights, restoring moral and constitutional order, securing local control, and protecting individual freedoms from federal and state overreach. Chaz believes we need fewer career politicians and more courageous patriots, leaders who will serve with humility, speak truth without fear, and act with moral clarity. He is determined to lead Colorado with faith, virtue, and a relentless commitment to liberty.
  • To secure Colorado’s future, we must first restore what made us free. As Governor, I will lead a return to biblical values, constitutional principles, and the moral foundations that built this state and nation. I’ll defend religious liberty, protect freedom of speech and prayer in schools, and promote policies that uphold life, family, and faith. Our Founders knew that freedom cannot survive without virtue, and virtue cannot thrive without truth. We don’t need more politicians, we need virtuous leadership that honors God, serves the people, and lives by principle. Restoration begins when we remember who we are under God and rebuild accordingly. Colorado’s revival starts now.
  • As Governor, I can’t impose structural reforms, but I will champion them boldly and lead the fight to restore Colorado’s balance of power. I’ll advocate for a Colorado State Electoral College, giving every county a real voice in statewide elections. I’ll push for a county ratification system so no major law or mandate takes effect without local consent. I’ll support supermajority county approval for constitutional changes and fight for a county-selected State Senate to restore equal legislative voice. I’ll also formally seek input from Boards of County Commissioners before signing major bills or executive orders. These reforms will protect liberty, restore representation, and rebuild our Colorado Republic from the bottom up.
  • Colorado must be a place where liberty is protected, not eroded. As Governor, I will fight to protect our constitutional rights, from the First Amendment to the Second. I’ll defend parental authority, ensure medical freedom, and stand against government overreach in every form. I’ll protect the unborn, the conscience rights of individuals, and the right to live and work without coercion. I’ll oppose radical policies that threaten our families, faith, and way of life. I will use the full legal and constitutional authority of the Governor’s office to shield Coloradans from federal tyranny and unlawful state mandates. Government’s first duty is to protect the God-given rights of the people, and I won’t compromise.
I’m passionate about restoring constitutional government, protecting individual liberty, and reviving moral leadership in Colorado. I care deeply about parental rights, religious freedom, and safeguarding our children from radical ideologies. I support local control, election integrity, and structural reforms that give every county a voice, like a Colorado State Electoral College and county ratification of major laws. I will defend the Second Amendment, uphold medical freedom, and stand for the sanctity of life. I believe in faith-based; servant leadership rooted in virtue, truth, and accountability. My mission is simple: restore the Republic, reform the system, and protect our way of life.
There are many men whose example I aspire to follow, each of them shaping me in different seasons of my life, but none greater than Jesus Christ, who became my Lord and Savior when I surrendered my life to Him five years ago. His example of servant leadership, sacrificial love, courage in the face of evil, and unwavering truth defines who I strive to be, not only as a leader, but as a man, a husband, and a father. Christ taught that greatness is not found in power, but in humility and obedience. That truth changed my life.

Among historical figures, George Washington stands as a model of virtue, courage, and self-governance. He was a man of deep faith, relentless resolve, and rare humility. He rejected kingship when it was offered to him, knelt in prayer in the snow of Valley Forge, and led not for personal glory, but out of duty to something greater. He was a patriot who understood that liberty requires both restraint and sacrifice. I aspire to emulate his strength, his obedience to God, and his quiet but unshakable moral compass.

And then there are the many men I served alongside in the United States Marine Corps, mentors, warriors, and friends who helped shape me. Some led with calm under fire. Others taught me how to lead with honor when no one is watching. They showed me what integrity looks like when tested by war, pressure, and sacrifice.

These men, Christ above all, Washington as a model of civic virtue, and my brothers-in-arms, form the compass I try to follow. I am not perfect. But I strive daily to lead as they led: with humility, with strength, and with a heart that serves before it speaks.
To understand my political philosophy, start with the Bible. It is the foundation of truth, law, liberty, justice, and the belief that all rights come from God, not government. Scripture teaches that civil authority is accountable to divine law, and that leaders are called to serve, not rule.

Then read the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, followed by the works that shaped and preserved them. John Locke’s Two Treatises of Government explains natural rights and limited government. Montesquieu’s Spirit of the Laws defines separation of powers. Blackstone’s Commentaries reveal the legal framework of liberty.

For biblical resistance to tyranny, study Lex Rex by Samuel Rutherford and Vindiciae Contra Tyrannos. Add The 5000 Year Leap by W. Cleon Skousen for a powerful summary of American founding principles, and George Washington’s Farewell Address as a timeless warning against abandoning religion and virtue.

Then go deeper: Read both the Federalist and Anti-Federalist Papers to understand the founding debate. Study Democracy in America by Tocqueville to see how faith and local self-government protected liberty. Review James Kent’s Commentaries on the Constitution and Joseph Story’s Commentaries, which explain the true original intent of the law. And explore the Journals and Writings of George Washington, which model civic duty, humble leadership, and devotion to divine providence.

These works together reveal my conviction: Liberty is not man-made, it is God-given, ordered by law, sustained by truth, and preserved by virtuous, courageous citizens.
An elected official must first and foremost be a servant, not a ruler. True leadership begins with humility, accountability, and the understanding that power is not something to be seized or exploited, it is a sacred trust given by the people and ultimately judged by God. I believe the most important characteristic in public office is virtue, not just private morality, but public integrity. Without virtue, no system of government, no matter how well-constructed, can preserve liberty. Our Founders knew this. John Adams said, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.”

An elected official must also possess courage, the courage to speak the truth, even when it’s unpopular, and the backbone to stand alone when necessary. In an age of compromise and political theater, we need statesmen, not showmen. We need men and women who will do what is right, not merely what is politically convenient.

Next, an official must have a deep respect for the Constitution, for the rule of law, and for the original intent of our founding documents. Public office is not a platform for personal agendas, it is a position of stewardship, meant to guard liberty, not redefine it. Elected officials must protect individual rights, defend state sovereignty, and reject the creeping overreach of unelected bureaucracies.

Finally, an official must be accountable to the people, transparent in decision-making, and willing to listen to those they serve, not just the loudest voices or the wealthiest donors. They must value every citizen, every county, and every concern. Colorado doesn’t need more politicians. It needs principled patriots, leaders of faith, wisdom, and unwavering resolve.
I believe the qualities that would make me a successful officeholder are the same ones that defined my service as a U.S. Marine and continue to guide me as a man of faith, a father, and a citizen: integrity, discipline, humility, courage, and a servant’s heart.

First, I lead with integrity. I say what I mean, I do what I say, and I take responsibility for my actions. In a time when public trust is at an all-time low, we need leaders who won’t sell out their convictions for political convenience. I won’t compromise truth for popularity, and I won’t make promises I can’t keep.

Second, I bring discipline and strategic experience. After over 20 years of service in the United States Marine Corps, including leadership roles in combat zones and global logistics, I know how to make tough decisions under pressure. I know how to lead teams, manage resources, solve problems, and follow through, because in the military, failure is not an option.

Third, I walk in humility and faith. I don’t see leadership as a way to gain power; I see it as a call to serve others. I follow Christ as my example of servant leadership. My job is not to rule over the people, but to represent them, protect their rights, and defend the Constitution without fear or favor.

Fourth, I have courage and resolve. I’m not afraid to stand alone. I will speak the truth boldly, even when it costs me. I’ve faced real threats, bullets, bombs, and battlefields. I won’t flinch when faced with political pressure, media attacks, or opposition from the entrenched establishment.

Lastly, I’m accountable, to God, to the Constitution, and to the people of Colorado. I don’t serve a party or a donor class. I serve the citizens. And I will never forget who I work for.
The Governor’s core responsibility is to defend the rights and freedoms of the people, not manage their lives, but secure their liberty. That begins with faithfully upholding the Colorado Constitution and the U.S. Constitution, guarding the rule of law, and resisting every form of government overreach. A Governor is not a king or a party boss. He is a steward, charged with protecting the rights of all Coloradans, urban and rural, rich and poor, affiliated and unaffiliated.

The Governor must ensure that state agencies are efficient, accountable, and working in the interest of the people, not special interests. That includes protecting the integrity of elections, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and using the executive office to stop unconstitutional mandates, especially those that threaten parental rights, individual conscience, and medical freedom.

The Governor is also responsible for public safety, not just through law enforcement, but by defending the rights of law-abiding citizens to protect themselves. That means upholding the Second Amendment, securing communities, and ensuring justice is fair, not politicized.

Another vital duty is emergency leadership. In times of crisis, the Governor must act swiftly, wisely, and with transparency, never using emergencies as excuses to trample liberty. During such times, the Governor should seek counsel, communicate clearly, and lead with calm conviction rooted in law, not fear.

Lastly, the Governor must represent all Coloradans, not just party loyalists or donor classes. That means engaging with local governments, including Boards of County Commissioners, before signing legislation or issuing executive orders. It means listening before acting, and leading with principle, not politics.

At its core, this office is a sacred trust. And I intend to honor it.
I don’t want my legacy to be about titles, recognition, or political success. I want my legacy to be this: that I stood for truth when it was costly, fought for liberty when it was unpopular, and served God and the people with everything I had.

I want to be remembered as a man who answered the call, not for power, but for principle. A man who loved his family, honored his oath, and refused to compromise what was right, no matter the political pressure. I want to leave behind a trail of restoration, of lives, communities, and institutions that were reclaimed from apathy, corruption, and fear.

If I can inspire the next generation to believe again in virtue, courage, sacrifice, and faith, then I’ve done something that matters. I want young men and women to look back and say, “He didn’t back down. He didn’t sell out. He showed us how to fight with love, lead with honor, and finish well.”

I want to leave Colorado better than I found it, not just economically or legislatively, but spiritually and morally. I want my children and grandchildren to inherit a state where liberty is protected, where government knows its limits, and where truth is not silenced by tyranny. I want my name to be associated not with politics, but with principled, servant-hearted leadership.

Above all, I want to hear one thing when my time is done, not from voters or history books, but from my Creator: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” That’s the only legacy that truly lasts.
My life has been shaped by many events of monumental significance, each one leaving its mark and forging a part of the person I am today. It’s hard to pinpoint a single moment as the most monumental, because history isn’t just remembered, it’s lived. But one of the earliest and most formative events I remember was watching the Gulf War unfold in the early 1990s. I was around 10 years old, old enough to feel the weight of war, but too young to understand its full implications. What I did understand, even then, was that freedom had a cost, and that brave men and women were willing to pay it.

As I grew, more world-shaping events followed: the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, the Oklahoma City bombing, and most memorably, the tragedy of September 11, 2001. By then, I was an adult, and a United States Marine. That day changed my life forever. It solidified my resolve, not just as a servicemember, but as a man called to defend something greater than himself. I watched as the towers fell, and I knew: the time for watching history was over. It was time to step into it.

That spirit, formed in childhood, forged in service, and refined through decades of leadership, still drives me today. I don’t just remember history. I carry it. I’ve lived through war, crisis, cultural upheaval, and national awakening. These events haven’t made me fearful, they’ve made me faithful, resolved, and ready.

Because the truth is this: every generation faces a defining test. I remember mine. And I’m determined to help this generation pass theirs, with courage, conviction, and the unwavering belief that liberty is worth defending.
Like many young men growing up, I worked a variety of jobs, landscaping, hauling, construction, ranch work, and other honest, hands-on labor. Those early experiences taught me the value of hard work, showing up on time, doing your job without complaint, and seeing first hand the results of your effort. But my first job as an adult, the one that shaped the man I would become, was joining the United States Marine Corps.

I enlisted in the Marine Corps at 18 and went on to serve for over 20 years, eventually retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer 4. It wasn’t just a job, it was a calling. The Marine Corps taught me leadership, discipline, courage under pressure, loyalty to my team, and how to make hard decisions in high-stakes environments. I served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, leading Marines in combat zones, overseeing mission-critical logistics, and mentoring junior leaders.

It was the kind of job that tests your character every single day, and it forged in me the sense of duty, sacrifice, and servant leadership that I carry into everything I do. My time in uniform gave me a lifelong commitment to honor, to country, and to defending the freedoms that so many now take for granted.

The Marine Corps didn’t just give me a paycheck. It gave me purpose. It taught me that leadership is earned through example, that freedom is never free, and that the greatest title a man can carry is servant of the people. That first job still defines how I approach every role since, whether as a husband, father, homesteader, or candidate for Governor. I still wake up every day ready to report for duty.
Hands down, my favorite book is the Bible. No other book has shaped my life, grounded my values, or guided my decisions like God’s Word. It’s more than a book to me, it’s the living truth that transformed who I was and continues to define who I strive to be.

The Bible answers life’s deepest questions: Who am I? Why am I here? What is right and what is wrong? It reveals the character of God, the nature of man, the meaning of justice, and the promise of redemption. It teaches that truth is not relative, that freedom is a gift from God, and that leadership is a form of service, not self-exaltation.

After I gave my life to Christ, the Bible became my compass. In moments of hardship, it brought me peace. In times of confusion, it brought clarity. And when I faced loss, trauma, or seemingly impossible decisions, it gave me the courage to press on. Its pages taught me to love my enemies, stand for righteousness, seek justice, and walk humbly before God.

The Psalms gave me comfort. Proverbs gave me wisdom. The Gospels showed me the heart of Jesus Christ, our perfect example of servant leadership. And from Genesis to Revelation, the Bible offers a blueprint for individual transformation and national restoration.

As a leader, husband, father, Marine, and citizen, everything I am and everything I do is built on the foundation of Scripture. I believe that no state, no government, no life can truly flourish without the moral clarity, eternal truth, and righteous standard found in the Word of God.

The Bible is not just my favorite book, it is my lifeline, my armor, and my guiding light. It is the standard by which I measure all things, including myself.
Honestly, I’ve never had the desire to be anyone other than who I am. I’m not perfect by any means, but I love the life God gave me, the good, the hard, and everything in between. I’ve faced trials, seen tragedy, walked through fire, and come out stronger, not because I’m special, but because God is faithful. He made me for a purpose, and I wouldn’t trade that for any fictional life, no matter how powerful or heroic it might seem.

I admire great fictional characters, the ones with honor, courage, and sacrifice. I respect those stories that point to something greater: truth, virtue, redemption. But if I’m honest, I don’t want to be a character in someone else’s story. I want to be faithful in the real one I’ve been given. Because this life, this actual, imperfect, beautiful life, is where we are called to make a difference.

That said, if I had to pick, I’d probably go with someone like Captain America, not because of the super serum or shield, but because he stood for something. He didn’t bend to culture. He didn’t follow the crowd. He followed conscience, duty, and truth, even when it cost him. But even then, I wouldn’t trade places. I’d rather live out those same principles here, now, in real time.

Because at the end of the day, I don’t want to be remembered as someone who escaped into fiction, but as someone who engaged with reality, who faced the hard things, lived with purpose, and never stopped striving to become the man God called me to be.

So no, I don’t wish to be a fictional character. I’m grateful to be Chaz Evanson. And I’m right where I’m supposed to be.
Two songs have been echoing in my mind lately: “The Goodness of God” and “Hard-Fought Hallelujah.” They’re more than just songs, they’re reminders of grace, endurance, and gratitude that have carried me through both the battles and the breakthroughs of life.

“The Goodness of God” reminds me that through every trial, every loss, every victory, and every unknown, God has been faithful. It’s the kind of song that settles deep in your spirit, when you’re alone in the truck, working on the homestead, or just reflecting on where you've been and how far God has brought you. That line, “All my life You have been faithful…” isn’t just a lyric, it’s my testimony. I’ve walked through war zones, through loss, through healing, and His goodness has never failed.

“Hard-Fought Hallelujah” hits a different chord. It’s about those praises that don’t come easy, the ones you offer after the battle, when your hands are scarred, your soul is tired, but your heart still chooses to worship. That song captures the spirit of a life that hasn’t been easy but has been worth every step. I’ve lived that kind of praise. I know what it is to lift your voice when you’ve got every reason to stay silent. That’s the kind of faith I try to live with and lead from.

These songs stick with me because they speak truth, not just emotionally, but spiritually. They remind me that gratitude and grit go hand in hand, and that worship is most powerful when it’s forged in the fire. In politics, in service, and in life, I carry those songs with me, because they keep my heart aligned with what matters most: faith, perseverance, and the goodness of God.
I’ve faced more than my fair share of struggle, tragedy, trauma, loss, and hardship, but I don’t say that for sympathy. I say it because I believe struggle is what shapes us, refines us, and reveals who we really are.

I’ve seen the horrors of war firsthand. I lost my leg in sa motorcycle crash. I fought to stay in the Marine Corps, to keep leading, to keep serving, even when my body told me I couldn’t. I’ve experienced homelessness, deep loss, and moments when it felt like everything I had worked for was gone. And I’ve wrestled not just with physical battles, but with the quiet, unseen ones, the daily struggle to become better than I was the day before.

But I don’t view these moments as setbacks, I see them as the very things that molded me into the man I am today. Jesus said we must go through the refiner’s fire, and I believe that’s exactly what those trials were. They burned away pride, selfishness, and false strength, and they replaced them with humility, faith, and unshakable resolve.

What I’ve experienced is not just post-traumatic stress, it’s post-traumatic growth. I’m not defined by what broke me, but by how God rebuilt me. I’m stronger, wiser, and more compassionate because of what I’ve endured. And because of that, I can lead with empathy, clarity, and conviction.

Struggle is part of every life. But it doesn’t have to destroy us. It can forge us. I thank God for the pain, because it produced perseverance. And that perseverance gave me purpose. My scars are not a sign of defeat; they are a testament to redemption.
In Colorado, the most important responsibility of the Governor is to be a guardian of liberty and the Constitution, to stand between the people and unlawful government action, whether it comes from Washington, Denver, or within his own administration. The Governor must protect individual rights, enforce the law with integrity, and restore balance to a state increasingly dominated by centralized power and urban political machines.

One of my top priorities is to defend local self-governance. Colorado’s counties and communities deserve a real voice, not mandates from Denver that ignore rural values, family priorities, or economic realities. I believe the Governor must champion county-level representation, constitutional reform, and structural checks and balances that restore power to the people.

Equally important is the faithful execution of the laws, not selective enforcement based on ideology. Whether it’s protecting the unborn, securing elections, upholding gun rights, or preserving parental authority, the Governor’s job is not to rewrite the law, but to enforce it justly and without compromise.

Another critical responsibility is the appointment of qualified, principled leaders to head departments, commissions, and courts. Leadership sets the tone for government culture. I will ensure Colorado’s executive branch reflects the highest standards of virtue, transparency, and accountability.

Finally, the Governor must be the people’s advocate—a voice that speaks truth to power and puts people above politics. In times of crisis, the Governor should protect liberty, not suspend it. In times of confusion, he should speak with clarity and courage.

Colorado deserves a Governor who sees the office not as a throne, but as a trust. That’s what I intend to honor, with every decision, every appointment, and every stand I take.
The Governor should have a direct, disciplined, and transparent role in the state budgeting process, not as a free spender or unchecked authority, but as a responsible steward of the people’s money. In Colorado, where waste, bureaucratic bloat, and backroom budget deals have become the norm, we need a Governor who is hands-on, not hands-off when it comes to fiscal policy.

If it were my choice, the Governor would lead the budget process by example, demanding transparency, enforcing spending discipline, and aligning every dollar with constitutional priorities. I believe in a zero-based budgeting approach, where agencies must justify every line item, not simply assume increases year after year. The Governor should hold each department accountable for efficiency, outcomes, and ethical use of funds.

The Governor must also veto irresponsible spending, challenge special-interest carveouts, and reject debt schemes that burden future generations. Every spending bill should be evaluated not just by its cost, but by its constitutional necessity and moral impact. Does it serve the people, or the system? Does it empower families and local communities, or expand centralized control?

Importantly, I would prioritize funding for core responsibilities, public safety, infrastructure, education transparency, and constitutional rights protection, while opposing taxpayer dollars being used for political activism, ideological agendas, or bloated administration.

The budget reflects the values of a state. A Governor must ensure those values are rooted in fiscal integrity, accountability, and service to the people, not the state itself. Under my leadership, Colorado’s budget would serve freedom, not feed government.
In Colorado, the Governor has line-item veto authority on appropriations bills, and I believe that power must be used with discipline, integrity, and courage. The line-item veto isn’t just a fiscal tool; it’s a moral responsibility to guard the public trust and reject spending that violates the will or welfare of the people.

As Governor, I would use the line-item veto to cut waste, defund political favoritism, and eliminate hidden agendas buried in budget bills. Too often, special interests insert pork projects, backdoor programs, or ideological funding into massive appropriations, expecting them to pass unnoticed. I will not rubber-stamp bloated budgets or approve public money for purposes that undermine constitutional rights, family values, or local control.

My philosophy is simple: if a spending item does not serve a clear, constitutional, and justifiable purpose, it doesn’t belong in the budget. I would veto items that fund activist-driven curriculum, gender ideology in schools, unaccountable NGO partnerships, or subsidies for programs that erode liberty. I will also oppose taxpayer dollars being used to attack the Second Amendment, silence parents, or override local government decisions.

However, this authority must be used strategically, not politically. I would consult with county governments, legislative leadership, and subject-matter experts to ensure line-item decisions are fact-based, not partisan stunts.

The people deserve a Governor who reads the fine print, understands what’s hidden in the folds, and acts boldly when others look the other way. I will use the line-item veto as a shield against corruption, overreach, and reckless spending, because every dollar comes from someone’s hard work and should be treated with respect.
The ideal relationship between the Governor and the state legislature is one of mutual respect, constitutional balance, and servant leadership. They are not supposed to be rivals or rubber stamps, they are co-equal branches, each accountable to the people, and each bound by the rule of law. A healthy Republic depends on clear boundaries, honest dialogue, and a shared commitment to truth and liberty.

As Governor, I would treat the legislature not as a political obstacle or a partisan machine, but as a constitutional partner. That means engaging early, communicating often, and being transparent about executive intentions. It also means standing firm when legislation violates the Constitution, the rights of the people, or the moral foundation of our state.

The Governor should champion the will of the people, not bypass it. That includes listening to local governments, respecting citizen input, and being willing to work with lawmakers from across the political spectrum, without compromising core convictions. Unity must never come at the cost of truth, but truth should always be spoken with humility.

I also believe the Governor has a duty to restrain legislative overreach, especially when bills are rushed, hidden, or written by unelected interests. I will use the veto not as a weapon, but as a safeguard, and when I do, I’ll explain why clearly, publicly, and respectfully.

In return, I will expect the legislature to do its job: craft clear, constitutional laws; protect citizens' rights; and uphold the limits placed on them by the people. When both branches honor their roles, Colorado wins.

In short, the Governor should lead with vision, the legislature should deliberate with integrity, and both should serve with humility, always remembering that they are accountable not to parties or power structures, but to the people and to God.
What I love most about Colorado isn’t just its breathtaking mountains, wide plains, or wild rivers, it’s the people. The hardworking ranchers, veterans, miners, teachers, small business owners, and families who wake up every day and keep this state running. It’s the neighbor who helps you dig out after a snowstorm. The church that prays for a community in need. The rancher who works from sunup to sundown to feed others. The parents who fight for their kids’ future. The citizen who speaks up at a school board meeting or volunteers on Election Day. That’s the Colorado I love, resilient, faithful, free.

I love our state’s spirit of independence. From the rugged pioneers to the modern homesteaders, Coloradans believe in personal responsibility, self-governance, and standing on principle, even when it’s hard. We don’t back down from challenges. We don’t wait for Washington to fix our problems. We solve them ourselves, with grit, courage, and community.

I also love our state’s heritage of liberty. Colorado joined the Union with a deep respect for individual rights, local control, and natural law. That legacy is worth fighting for. It’s not just history, it’s our inheritance.

And I love our promise, that we can be a place where freedom flourishes again. A state where children are safe, families are strong, and government knows its limits. A place where you can speak freely, worship openly, work honestly, and raise your kids without fear of being silenced or controlled.

Colorado is a place worth restoring, not because of its politics, but because of its people, its principles, and its potential. That’s why I’m running. That’s why I’m fighting. And that’s why I’ll never stop defending what I love most, our way of life.
Colorado’s greatest challenges over the next decade are not just economic or political, they’re spiritual, cultural, and constitutional. We are facing a crisis of truth, leadership, and identity. If we don’t correct course, we risk losing not only our freedoms, but the very foundations that make this state worth living in.

First, we face a growing threat from government overreach. Unchecked executive power, radical mandates, and centralized policies are eroding local authority and individual rights. Rural counties are being silenced by urban political machines. Parental rights are under assault. The next decade will determine whether Colorado remains a constitutional republic or slips into soft tyranny.

Second, we are battling a cultural war on children, families, and truth. From politicized education to attacks on biological reality, we must defend the innocence of our youth and the role of parents. Colorado must stand against indoctrination and protect the right to raise children with faith, virtue, and freedom.

Third, economic instability and inflation are pushing families to the brink. Colorado’s cost of living is rising while small businesses are burdened by regulation, and energy policies are destroying our independence. If we don’t restore free-market principles and responsible fiscal policy, our people will suffer, and leave.

We also face a crisis of civic disengagement. Too many good citizens have checked out, believing their voice no longer matters. The challenge ahead is to reawaken the spirit of self-government, reengage communities, and rebuild trust in lawful, local authority.

But I believe every challenge is also an opportunity, to repent, rebuild, and restore. With courage, faith, and action, Colorado can rise and lead again.
I like humor and I love to laugh, but to be honest, I’m not sure I could narrow it down to just one favorite joke. Life’s too full of absurd moments, dry wit, and unexpected punchlines to pick a single winner. That said, I’ve always appreciated a good, clean, well-timed joke, especially the kind that brings people together instead of tearing them down.

Some of my favorite laughs come from dad jokes, military humor, and those good old-fashioned one-liners that make you shake your head and smile anyway. Humor’s been a survival tool for me, in the field, in the face of hardship, and even in politics. Sometimes, laughter is the only thing that cuts through the chaos and reminds us we’re still human.

So while I couldn’t name just one, here’s one that always gets at least a groan and a grin:

“Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field.”

Is it corny? Yes. Do I still laugh every time? Absolutely.

Here’s another one, military edition:

“How many Marines does it take to change a lightbulb?”
None. We don’t change lightbulbs, we adapt, improvise, and overcome in the dark.”

The truth is, a sense of humor is essential, especially in leadership. If you can’t laugh, especially at yourself, you’re not grounded. I take the issues facing Colorado very seriously, but I try not to take myself too seriously. Humor keeps you humble. It connects people. It’s a universal language that says, “We’re in this together.”

So whether it’s a dry one-liner or a goofy dad joke, I’m always up for a laugh. Because even in serious times, joy is strength, and sometimes the best medicine is a good punchline and a room full of smiling faces.
Emergency powers should be used rarely, lawfully, and with strict limits. The Governor is not a king, and a crisis is never a justification to suspend the Constitution or override the will of the people. Emergency powers must be temporary, transparent, and accountable to both the legislature and the public.

In my view, a Governor should only invoke emergency authority in response to immediate, clearly defined threats to life, liberty, or public safety, such as natural disasters, foreign attack, or catastrophic infrastructure failure. Even then, every emergency order must be narrow in scope, short in duration, and subject to oversight. No unilateral action should last more than 30 days without legislative review and approval.

What we witnessed during COVID-19, months and even years of unchecked executive rule, crushing mandates, business closures, and infringements on worship, speech, and parental rights, was a violation of every founding principle. That cannot happen again. Liberty is not negotiable, even in a crisis. In fact, it is during a crisis that constitutional safeguards are most essential.

As Governor, I would lead with calm, clarity, and respect for the law, not panic, fear, or political convenience. I would consult county governments, engage the legislature, and communicate honestly with the public. Emergency declarations would be used to mobilize aid, coordinate response, and protect the vulnerable, not to control citizens or silence dissent.

In every situation, I will uphold this standard: No emergency should ever become an excuse for tyranny. The Constitution is not a suggestion, it is the law, and I will defend it in crisis just as in peace.
As an unaffiliated candidate, I am not backed by parties or political machines, I’m backed by people. I’ve earned the support of veterans, local leaders, parents, and faith-driven citizens who believe in restoring truth, liberty, and constitutional government in Colorado. I’ve received personal endorsements from county officials, former Marines, and community members who know I stand for servant leadership, not party politics. This campaign is powered by conviction, not corruption. If you believe in restoring the Republic, I welcome your support. We the people are the endorsement that matters most.
Financial transparency and government accountability are not optional; they are moral and constitutional mandates. A government that hides its spending, conceals its deals, or abuses the public trust is one that has forgotten its place. Public servants are not rulers. They are stewards, entrusted with taxpayer dollars, constitutional limits, and the sacred duty to serve with honesty.

As Governor, I will push for full transparency in budgeting, spending, and agency operations. That includes detailed reporting of all state expenditures, audits of bloated departments, and real-time public access to financial data, so the people of Colorado know exactly how their money is being used. I will end slush funds, expose sweetheart deals, and demand accountability from every level of government.

We must also hold leaders accountable when they abuse power, whether it’s through unconstitutional executive orders, fraudulent election practices, or crony capitalism. I support whistleblower protections, independent audits, and county-level oversight of state programs. Power must flow upward from the people, not downward from centralized bureaucracy.

Accountability also means measurable outcomes. Government should be judged by what it produces, not what it promises. Programs that fail must be ended. Agencies that violate rights must be reformed or shut down.

I will lead by example, no backroom deals, no hidden donors, no shady lobbying. I serve the people, not the party and not the system. If elected, I will publish my schedule, disclose all political contributions, and maintain open access for the citizens of this state.

In a free republic, sunlight is not the enemy, it is the safeguard of liberty. And under my leadership, the people of Colorado will once again see clearly where their government stands.
I strongly support the citizen-led ballot initiative process as a vital expression of grassroots self-governance. It is a hallmark of republican liberty that the people can directly shape laws and challenge legislative overreach. However, like any form of lawmaking, the ballot initiative process must be balanced by constitutional safeguards and geographic accountability to prevent abuse by well-funded urban interests or outside activists.

The danger we face today is not the ballot initiative itself—but the centralization of influence in a few urban counties, where massive funding and media pressure can push radical policies that override the will of rural Coloradans and local governments. That is not representative government—it is ballot box tyranny.

I support reforms to the ballot initiative process that include county-level ratification for initiatives with broad statewide impact. Just as the federal Constitution requires approval from three-fourths of the states to enact amendments, I believe any major ballot initiative—particularly constitutional changes—should be ratified by a majority of Colorado’s counties before taking effect. This would preserve the voice of rural communities and restore balance to direct democracy.

Additionally, I support greater transparency in ballot initiative funding, clearer single-subject enforcement, and public education to ensure voters understand the full legal and fiscal impact of what they’re voting on.

Ballot initiatives are a powerful tool of the people, but unchecked power is always dangerous. My goal is not to restrict citizen participation, but to restore the structural integrity of our Republic, ensuring that all voices, not just the loudest or wealthiest, are heard and respected.
To me, being the top executive authority in the state means being the chief servant of the people, not a political monarch or party enforcer. The Governor’s authority must be exercised under the rule of law, bound by the Colorado Constitution, and accountable to the people and to God. Executive power is not a blank check, it is a stewardship role meant to protect rights, enforce just laws, and ensure that government serves its proper, limited purpose.

As Governor, I would see my office as a shield, not a sword. My duty would be to defend the rights of Coloradans, not to infringe on them through executive overreach. That includes stopping unconstitutional mandates, vetoing reckless legislation, and using the full weight of the office to protect freedom of speech, religion, conscience, self-defense, and property.

Leadership at the executive level also requires decisiveness, especially in emergencies. But emergencies do not suspend the Constitution. In a crisis, I would lead with calm resolve, consult with counties and the legislature, and always act transparently. I believe in bottom-up governance, not top-down control.

As chief executive, I would demand accountability from every agency, appointee, and department. I’d appoint leaders based on integrity and competence, not politics. I would fight waste, corruption, and bureaucracy with relentless energy.

Finally, a Governor should set the moral tone for the state. Not by forcing religion, but by living out virtue, truth, and humility. A Governor should inspire, not divide, lead by example, not by fear. The highest power a Governor holds is the ability to call the people to something higher: service, sacrifice, and self-governance under God.

That’s the kind of executive I intend to be.

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Footnotes

  1. Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on June 13, 2025