Kent J. Thiry

It’s time for Colorado to adopt fully open primaries to ensure every voter has a meaningful say – the way democracy was designed. Take a look at my column in The Denver Post to learn why we need to change the system now more than ever: kentthiry.com/closing-colora…

That’s a dangerous step backward from our 2016 reform allowing Independent voters to participate in either party's primary. Democracy is on high alert in Colorado as a minority of hardline party insiders could soon dictate nominations for our taxpayer-funded general elections.

Elections belong to the people, not the parties. But a recent court ruling just made it easier for political parties to lock out the state’s largest voting bloc – Independents – from primary elections.

Colorado has both an opportunity and obligation to establish our identity as the pinnacle of outdoor recreation with the twin peak of environmental stewardship. Passing HB-1008 allows us to meet that obligation and honor the legacy of our great outdoors. kentthiry.com/turn-blueprint…

In a state where more than 50% of voters are independents, it’s time to retire this mess and switch to something that is more inclusive of partisans and non-partisans alike. "This isn’t democracy, it’s dysfunction." denverpost.com/2026/03/30/col…

2/2 This terrible tunnel vision decision is yet another reason why Colorado should adopt a fully open primary where each Colorado voter can vote for whomever they want, independent of party.  I am eager for this deeply flawed decision to be appealed.

1/2 This decision tramples on the voting rights of a majority of Colorado voters, namely the independent voters.  Voters own elections, not the parties.  Voters pay for the elections, not the parties.   denverpost.com/2026/04/01/jud…

Learn about this growing problem and our recent reform efforts: coloradosun.com/2026/03/23/col…

It's past time to eliminate this outdated rule and empower ALL voters. Open the door and let Independents sign!

The system is broken when 50% of our voters are shut out of the primary petition process. This isn't democracy, it’s a completely unreasonable structural flaw that dilutes the candidate pool and tilts the scale to favor big money.

2/2 Denise and I know the challenges professional women face all-too-well, and are pleased to play a part in elevating and celebrating their stories.

1/2 I had the great pleasure of presenting @ShannonBird4CO with the Advocacy Award at the @cowomenschamber State of Women in Business Luncheon earlier this month. I’ve seen former State Rep. Bird in action — and she is an incredible asset to our state and the community.

When it comes to vacancies, my view is simple: Voters deserve a voice. Read my guest column on Sen. Michael Bennet bringing the issue front-and-center with his gubernatorial run. denverpost.com/2026/02/23/mic…

2/2 Congress must restore its power to set tariffs. Washington needs leaders who prioritize constituents over partisan politics and defend the Constitution's separation of powers. #Copolitics

1/2 Kudos to GOP Rep. Jeff Hurd for voting to end Canadian tariffs and putting Colorado first. These tariffs are hampering the state's economy, raising costs and uncertainty for businesses and consumers. cpr.org/2026/02/11/u-s…

Denise and I are among the couples named Grand Marshals for the Beaux Arts Ball benefiting National Jewish Health. Dubbed “Grease and Glamour: A Rockin’ ‘50s Beaux Arts Ball,” the fundraising gala takes place March 7. Tickets: njhealth.org/beauxartsball We hope to see you there!

As many of you know, I have been beating this drum for a few years now: The major parties ignore the rising tide of Independents at their own peril. realclearpolitics.com/articles/2026/…

2/2 When more than 1 in 4 lawmakers arrive at the Capitol via vacancy appointment (notably: 27 of 30 vacancy appointments were Dems as of 2024) it’s time for a total revamp!

1/2 After pushing for vacancy reform via the Title Board two years ago, we supported legislative reforms to the process instead. Clearly, those weren’t enough. .., completecolorado.com/2025/12/29/rep…

Independents now outnumber Ds and Rs in Colorado combined, so we’ve conducted one of the largest polls ever on their views. Check out our findings, and media coverage: 🔗letcoloradovote.com

In 2016 we saw the rise of Independents and worked to open CO primaries. In 2018 we created redistricting commissions where Independents actually had seats at the table.

The growth of Independents is the most important political trend in America.