The tide could be turning for Colorado’s long-sidelined Republican Party. On May 30, it elected a respected and smart party chair who holds the promise of uniting party ranks in common purpose. It also has a highly regarded gubernatorial contender in Barb Kirkmeyer, who can steer the party toward success — and away from the cliff’s edge. 

As the June 30 primary election approaches, GOP stronghold El Paso County can play a pivotal role in getting the state party back on track — and back in the game.

Mail ballots for the primary start arriving today, and voters — not only Republicans but also unaffiliateds, who are eligible to vote a GOP ballot — can help define the party anew and make it a force to be reckoned with in the general election Nov. 3. 

That requires level-headed Republican candidates who are effective messengers for their party’s winning principles — like reining in runaway regulations; keeping government growth in check; fighting higher taxes, and prioritizing public safety. It also means candidates who keep their eyes on the big picture — and who don’t jump the rails in pursuit of kooky conspiracy theories and outlandish personal agendas.

There are four Pikes Peak region GOP primary races in which the right choice can help keep the party on its promising trajectory. Not only when it comes to picking credible candidates for November but also in ultimately selecting officeholders who can restore the Republican label as Colorado’s party of common sense.

The Gazette editorial board recommends four candidates in those four races.

El Paso County Commission District 1: Vote for Ryan Graham. Graham is a small business owner, real estate broker and firefighter in El Paso County who now serves as president of the Monument Academy School Board. He champions transparent and accountable local government and budget discipline. He wants to improve roads, protect taxpayers and ensure public safety. He is endorsed by El Paso County’s top law enforcement officials — District Attorney Michael Allen and Sheriff Joe Roybal. Vote for Graham.

El Paso County Commission District 5: Vote to reelect Lauren Nelson. Nelson, who previously served on the Colorado Springs School District 11 board, has proven herself to be a highly capable commissioner who puts fiscal responsibility and restraints on government growth at the core of how she stewards Colorado Springs taxpayer dollars. The married mother of two and Palmer High grad with a background as a food scientist is rooted in the community and brings the principle of prudence to how she governs those she represents across the political and ideological spectrum. Vote for Nelson.

State Senate District 9: Vote for Terri Carver. Carver already knows her way around the State Capitol. The retired Air Force colonel who was a military judge advocate general previously served in the Colorado House from 2016 to 2022. Her priorities for the Senate include tackling high the cost of living, fighting crime, ending sanctuary policies ushered in by Democrats and rolling back strangling new Democratic laws that are driving businesses out of the state. She also seeks to carry on her fight against human trafficking from her days in the House. Vote for Carver.

State House District 14: Vote to reelect Ava Flanell. Flanell is a small-business owner and firearms instructor who grasps the challenges facing entrepreneurs and working families. In her legislative work, she focuses on public safety and affordability, defending constitutional rights, supporting parents and families, and holding government accountable. Vote for Flanell.

The time is right for a Republican reboot. Colorado’s ruling Democrats have been embracing ever more radical policies, alienating Colorado’s vast political middle — its unaffiliated voters.

Now, it’s up to Republicans to pick the right people to win them over.