Populist firebrand Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., has announced that she will not run in the special election for Colorado GOP Rep. Ken Buck’s seat, further narrowing the GOP majority in the House. Buck surprised Republicans on Tuesday with his announcement that he will leave Congress on March 22, triggering a special election on June 25 to temporarily fill the vacancy in Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District. Boebert, who currently represents Colorado’s 4th Congressional District, had previously expressed her intention to run for Buck’s seat in the 3rd. However, she clarified on Wednesday that she will not run in the special election as it would require her to vacate her own seat.
In a post on X, Boebert criticized Buck’s announcement as “a gift to the uniparty” and accused establishment Republicans of attempting to “rig” the election that she claims she is winning by 25 points. She expressed concerns about the confusion it would cause for voters and the lack of representation for the 4th District for over three months. Boebert emphasized her commitment to delivering on her constituents’ priorities and vowed to continue working to earn the votes of the people of Colorado’s 4th District.
Buck’s departure from Congress comes after serving since 2014. Despite having a conservative voting record, Buck has at times demonstrated an independent streak that has put him at odds with other Republicans. He was one of three House Republicans who opposed the impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.
With Buck’s resignation, the GOP majority in the House will be further reduced. After his departure, there will be 431 members of Congress, with 218 Republicans and 213 Democrats. This means that the GOP can only afford to lose two votes from their own party on any given issue. The next special election will be for the seat previously occupied by former Rep. Brian Higgins, D-N.Y., on April 30. If the seat remains in Democratic hands, the new breakdown will be 432 members, with 218 Republicans and 214 Democrats. This would effectively leave the GOP with a one-seat margin. If the GOP loses just two votes, there would be a tie, resulting in a failed vote in the House.
Overall, Boebert’s decision not to run in the special election for Buck’s seat adds to the challenges faced by Republicans in maintaining their majority in the House. The GOP will need to strategize and rally support to ensure they can effectively advance their agenda in Congress.
