When U.S. Representative Lauren Boebert announced she was switching congressional districts — leaving her longtime home in Colorado’s 3rd District to run in the open 4th District — the move stirred significant controversy across the state. Boebert’s decision to seek election in a safer Republican seat drew sharp reactions from both media and fellow Republican contenders.
Among those responding was State Representative Richard Holtorf, one of the candidates in the crowded GOP primary for the 4th District seat. Holtorf, an Army veteran and Colorado lawmaker, was outspoken about his belief that Boebert’s district shift was politically motivated and not rooted in community ties — a charge often referred to as “carpetbagging.”
In his remarks, Holtorf made it clear that he believes a true representative should have deep connections to the people and communities they aim to serve. Rather than simply chasing a safer political path, Holtorf argued, candidates should demonstrate a sincere commitment to the district’s priorities and values. That emphasis on substance, not strategy, reflects a broader concern among some voters and local leaders.
This criticism wasn’t unique to Holtorf — it echoed sentiments expressed by other Republican figures and commentators at early debates in the race. During the first Republican primary debate in Fort Lupton, several of Boebert’s rivals directly challenged her on the issue, even asking her to define “carpetbagger” in front of an audience of local conservatives.
Boebert defended her decision by saying that residents of the 4th District shared her core conservative values, even if their crops were different than those in her former district. She insisted she was ready to earn the support of voters on her record and principles, not just prior election results.
Holtorf’s stance — and complaints about outsiders entering the race — highlights a genuine tension in the primary. On one hand, there’s the reality that political strategy often plays a role in campaign decisions. On the other, many voters in the district want a candidate who understands their specific needs, culture, and priorities first-hand.
As the primary unfolded, those conversations only grew louder. In the end, Boebert went on to secure the Republican nomination and ultimately won the seat in the general election, but the issues Holtorf raised remain part of the broader dialogue about representation and accountability in Colorado politics.