The race for Colorado’s 4th Congressional District has been one of the most talked‑about political contests in the state, and one early moment that set the tone was the GOP debate held in Weld County this year. Hosted by the Republican Women of Weld County, the forum gave voters a firsthand look at the crowded field of candidates aiming to replace retiring Rep. Ken Buck in what remains one of Colorado’s most reliably Republican seats.
A Packed Stage and Candidates Eager to Stand Out
Nine Republican hopefuls took the stage in Fort Lupton, including U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, who fueled headlines by switching from Colorado’s 3rd District race to seek the CD4 nomination. Boebert’s entry into the race brought immediate scrutiny, both from voters and her rivals — and that tension was evident throughout the debate.
From the outset, candidates emphasized their conservative credentials on immigration, the economy, and national security, but many of the most memorable moments came from personal exchanges and pointed questions about character and background.
The “Carpetbagger” Conversation
One of the defining moments in the Weld County debate came when other Republicans questioned Boebert’s decision to run in a district where she had only recently established residency. Her opponents repeatedly pressed her on whether she understood the meaning of “carpetbagger,” a term historically used to describe politicians perceived to be outsiders.
Boebert responded by portraying her move as a fresh start for her family and insisting that her conservative agenda aligned with the priorities of CD4 voters. Nonetheless, critics onstage suggested that genuine local ties should matter more to constituents than political strategy.
Arrest Records Elicit Reactions
Another unusual highlight from the Weld County debate came when candidates were asked whether they had ever been arrested. Six of the nine Republican contenders, including Boebert and several state legislators, raised their hands — resulting in laughter and lighthearted reactions from the crowd.
This moment underscored how personal histories were becoming part of the campaign narrative, with some candidates recounting their past experiences in ways meant to project relatability — or at least to defuse awkwardness with humor.
Who Came Out on Top?
In an informal straw poll conducted among attendees, former state Sen. Jerry Sonnenberg emerged with the most support, reflecting a strong showing for the veteran Colorado legislator. Other contenders such as Mike Lynch and radio host Deborah Flora also landed higher in the poll, while Boebert finished in the middle of the pack — a surprising result for the incumbent congresswoman.
What Voters Can Take Away
The Weld County debate provided voters with a snapshot of where each candidate stands on key issues and how they interact under pressure. While policy positions on conservative priorities — from border security to economic growth — dominated much of the discussion, moments of personal questioning and audience engagement added texture to what might otherwise have been a standard primary forum.
For those following the CD4 race, the Weld County debate underscored the competitive nature of the Republican primary and the importance of connection, authenticity, and campaign strategy in a district where the GOP nomination often predicts the general election outcome.