Boebert barely cracks top five in CD4 Debate Straw Poll
Accused of being a carpetbagger, U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert faced heavy criticism during the first debate of the 4th Congressional District race. While defending her decision to switch districts, Boebert's rivals used the opportunity to question her motives and integrity.
Boebert's move from her losing re-election race in the 3rd District to the deep-red 4th District became the focal point of the debate in Fort Lupton Thursday night.
The embattled congresswoman addressed the issue by stating that she had recently moved to the area and signed a lease for a home in nearby Windsor. She emphasized that she was there to earn the voters' support and that it was “not a coronation.”
Congressional District 3 Congresswoman Lauren Boebert, pictured far left
However, her response did little to appease the doubts surrounding her candidacy. None of the other candidates on stage expressed their support for Boebert if they were not running themselves, and she placed fifth in an informal straw poll.
State Rep. Mike Lynch directly challenged Boebert by asking her to define the term "carpetbagger." In response, Boebert referred to her divorce and family issues, stating that she and her sons needed a fresh start.
The tense atmosphere of the debate reflected a Republican primary that has become increasingly contentious – with Boebert's personal life making headlines, including her apology for causing a disturbance and being removed from a "Beetlejuice" performance in Denver.
Six candidates admitted to having been arrested in the past, and four of the prominent candidates have been involved in controversies.
Former state lawmaker Ted Harvey has faced scrutiny for operating a "scam PAC" that allocated more funds to operating costs and salaries than to supporting pro-Trump campaigns.
Rep. Mike Lynch (R-HD49) speaks with a constituent
When discussing her own arrest, Boebert misled the audience by characterizing it as a minor traffic violation with unpaid tickets. In reality, Boebert has been arrested multiple times for more serious offenses.
In one instance, according to the Colorado Times Recorder, in 2016, she rolled her truck on a rural road near Rifle. She received a ticket for a mandatory hearing but failed to show up or reschedule, leading to her arrest and a brief stay in jail. She eventually paid a fine and settled the matter in 2017.
Another arrest occurred in 2015 at the Country Jam music festival in Grand Junction. Boebert encouraged underage drinkers to flee custody, causing disturbance and unruly behavior. She failed to appear for two separate hearings related to this arrest, leading to a warrant being issued for her arrest.
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While some candidates acknowledged their past mistakes, Lynch emphasized that what matters is how one gets back up after being knocked down.
Rep Mike Lynch recently resigned as the House Republican leader due to pressure from his party after a 2022 DUI arrest became public.
Anti-abortion state Rep. Richard Holtorf admitted in a recent speech that he had helped pay for a girlfriend's abortion, claiming it was in her best interest.
In a straw poll following the debate, the crowd ranked the top five out of the nine -- Sonnenberg, followed by Lynch and Flora. Holtorf and Boebert.