In a notable turn, former President Donald Trump has decided to back Hope Scheppelman rather than Representative Jeff Hurd in the upcoming GOP primary for Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District. This shift, shared through a social media statement, illustrates Trump’s persistent sway over the Republican Party and highlights key issues like trade policies and party loyalty.
Trump’s withdrawal of support for Hurd is rooted in the latter’s perceived failure to endorse key trade tariffs. Trump voiced his concerns, stating, “He [Hurd] is more interested in protecting foreign countries that have been ripping us off for decades than he is the United States of America.” This incident echoes a similar withdrawal with former Congressman Mo Brooks, underscoring Trump’s push to align candidates with his “Make America Great Again” platform.
Now in Trump’s corner, Hope Scheppelman brings a rich background to the table. As a critical care nurse practitioner and U.S. Navy veteran, she has recently made headlines by signing a pledge with the Colorado Libertarian Party. This strategic move aims to unite Republican and Libertarian votes, minimizing the risk of vote-splitting in critical elections. James Wiley, director of the Colorado Libertarian Party, remarked that such pledges have a history of “already flipped a congressional seat and a legislative race by mere votes.” This coalition could help solidify a strengthened conservative front.
In supporting Scheppelman, Trump highlights her dedication to foundational conservative principles, including economic growth and the protection of constitutional rights, particularly the Second Amendment. He acknowledged her as “a distinguished critical care nurse practitioner and a brave U.S. Navy veteran,” showing confidence in her ability to advocate for vital issues like energy independence and border security.
Meanwhile, incumbent Jeff Hurd, who gained his seat thanks to Trump’s endorsement in 2022, finds himself at a crossroads. His non-support of tariffs has become a significant point of contention. Hurd’s moderate approach—evident in previous votes like opposing the censure of Rep. Ilhan Omar—has created a rift with Trump-aligned conservatives. Analysts suggest that Hurd’s centrist perspective, despite his fundraising prowess, may leave him vulnerable to attacks from rival factions within his own party.
Hope Scheppelman’s endorsement by Trump, along with her alignment with the Libertarian pledge, signals a strategic push to consolidate the conservative vote ahead of the 2026 midterms. Party Chair Hannah Goodman affirms that Scheppelman’s efforts reflect “the growing momentum of the Libertarian movement in Colorado.” This evolving dynamic could reshape GOP strategies leading to pivotal elections.
On the Democratic side, candidates Alex Kelloff and Kyle Doster are gearing up to take advantage of potential fractures within the GOP. Kelloff has expressed a critical stance toward Hurd following Trump’s earlier endorsement, suggesting it was more about strategic positioning than a genuine commitment to Colorado constituents. He declared, “Hurd has ONLY let you down!” reflecting a broader Democratic agenda to paint GOP candidates in a negative light amidst internal conflicts.
Trump’s endorsement shift amplifies the stakes in this primary race and underscores rising tensions within the GOP. Hurd represents a more moderate faction, while Scheppelman embodies the Trump-aligned agenda. Since her campaign launch in June 2023, Scheppelman has targeted conservative voters by addressing urgent issues such as the fentanyl crisis, healthcare reform, and the economic struggles facing rural communities.
The political environment in Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District sets the stage for a fiercely competitive electoral cycle leading up to the primary in June 2026. This race captures the ideological schisms within the Republican Party and reflects broader voter priorities that could influence future national policies.
As political strategies shift and alliances form, developments in Colorado’s 3rd District carry the potential to shape party tactics both locally and beyond. The implications of this race may resonate through the national political landscape as the midterms approach.
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