Colorado Politics

Colorado State Senate primary candidates | 2024 VOTER GUIDE

SENATE DISTRICT 2

The district is located entirely within Douglas County, including the communities of Castle Rock, Grand View Estates, Parker, Stonegate and The Pinery. The district’s competitive index highly favors Republicans, which means whoever wins the GOP primary holds the advantage in November’s general election.  

Democrats: 20,779; Republicans: 42,241; Unaffiliated: 62,668; Total active voters: 127,974

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REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

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Tim Arvidson

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Tim Arvidson



Name: Timothy Wesley Arvidson

Phone number: 720-654-1522

Email: tim@timarvidson.com

Website: www.timarvidson.com

Mailing address: 2360 Bayberry Ln. Castle Rock, Co. 80104

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science/Public Administration, Indiana University

Why should the voters elect you to office? 

I am not a career politician. I will not “Go Along, to Get Along” in appeasing the Liberal Democrat Agenda. My opponent has a “terrible” voting record of voting with Democrats, sponsoring bills with Democrats! Over 90 Bills in 2023! I have over 35 years of experience leading people, teams and organizations to successful missions and outcomes. I am a Marine dad, grandfather of two boys and a fervent conservative, Christian, “America First” candidate. As a former Public Safety Commissioner, I will have a “Tough on Crime Approach” in District 2.

What is your top priority if elected and how will it be funded? 

Property Tax’s in Colorado Senate District 2 is out of control and exorbitant! Crime is a major concern with the influx of illegals into Colorado. My “Tough on Crime” approach will keep our community safe. Election Integrity is essential. Without honest and fair elections, “We the People” do not have a voice. Same day voting, photo ID, proof of citizenship, paper ballots. No machines! Parental rights and protect our children from the insane woke agenda of the war on women and children.

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Lisa Frizell

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Lisa Frizell



Name: Lisa Frizell

Phone number: 303-513-7425

Email: lfrizell@gmail.com

Website: LisaforCO.com

Mailing address: P.O. Box 504, Castle Rock CO 80104

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder

Why should the voters return you to office?

As a proven conservative, my experience in the House of Representatives gives me a broad spectrum of committee work that translates very well to the Senate. Having served on more committees than any other representative, I have accumulated a deep understanding of the issues that are top of mind for Colorado citizens. I know how to slow down and amend bills, ensuring that both committee and floor debate are robust and meaningful.

What is your top priority if returned to office and how will it be funded? 

My top priority is making Colorado more affordable. Several important aspects that I want to prioritize: Housing; taxes; reducing the footprint of state government; and limiting fees and regulations. The No. 1 priority of the General Assembly must be to legislatively limit construction defects litigation —encouraging insurance companies to re-enter the higher density construction market. I call on all legislators to find the intestinal fortitude to rebuff the Trial Lawyers Association in this matter.

SENATE DISTRICT 10

The district is located entirely within El Paso County, including Cimarron Hills and Colorado Springs. The district’s competitive index favors Republicans, which means whoever wins the GOP primary holds the advantage in November’s general election.  

Democrats: 19,149; Republicans: 18,043; Unaffiliated: 47,983; Total active voters: 87,641

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY 

Name: Rex Tonkins

Phone number: 719-433-8838

Email: rex33tonkins@gmail.com 

Websiteelectrextonkins.com

Rex Tonkins did not respond to the questionnaire.

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David Stiver

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David Stiver



Name: David Stiver

Phone number: 719-339-4479

Email: info@david4coloradosenate.com

Website: david4coloradosenate.com

Mailing address: 4562 Excalibur Court Colorado Springs CO 80917

Education: AA, 1982 Pikes Peak Community College; BA University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, 1986; MA, University of Phoenix, 1998; Engalitchef Institute, Georgetown University, 1985; The Fund for American Studies, 1985

Why should the voters elect you to office?

1. Military veteran/disabled Vet; 2. Small business owner; 3. Proven record of service (bureaus, departments, agencies, and legislature); 4. Crime victim advocate (crime victim Bill of Rights); 5. Adjunct Professor (accounting, budgeting, economics, finance); 6. Colorado Courts — former judicial employee; 7. Endorsements: Douglas Bruce, author, Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights; 8. Administrative state: Experience working with and within each of the three branches of government.

What is your top priority if elected and how will it be funded? 

1) Administrative state/government over-reach and over-regulation — bureaus, departments, and agencies. Reduce the size and scope of government via the sunset review and audit process (HB 2019-1212) and Title 24 (Administrative Procedure Act). Strive to make bureaus, departments, agencies, boards, and commissions more accountable by requiring that all directives contain two elements: 1) Fiscal Note, and 2) Economic Impact Statement outlining the direct and indirect costs, implicit and explicit costs, and economic impact that the rules, regulations will have on individuals and businesses in Colorado. C.R.S. 24-4-101.5

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Larry Liston

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Larry Liston



Name: Larry Liston

Phone: 719-649-9742

Email: llliston16@q.com

Website: FriendsofLarryListon.com

Mailing address: PO Box 7954, Colo. Springs, CO. 80933

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business/Finance, Colorado State University, 1975

Why should the voters return you to office?

Voters should return me to office because I bring a wealth of experience (16 years) in the Colorado legislature. I have been a good steward for the people of SD-10 by supporting the tenants of TABOR, fighting for our senior citizens to lower their property taxes and fighting to uphold our 2nd Amendment rights. I have been endorsed by the Fraternal order Police, the Colorado State Chamber and the Colorado Medical Society and named “Legislator of the Year” by the United Veterans Committee. I have received numerous awards for my legislative service, most notably from the American Conservative Union, three times. The people of SD-10 know me and trust me. I am an accomplished legislator.

What is your top priority if elected and how will it be funded? 

My top priority in 2025 will be to encourage the development of nuclear energy in Colorado. While traditional sources of energy are under assault, most notably coal and natural gas, we will need clean, safe and reliable energy for Coloradans for the future. Nuclear energy meets all of these criteria. There are numerous private and public companies that are willing and eager to fund the development of nuclear energy for our state. I am willing to be the champion for this industry, which will not rely on the taxpayers.

SENATE DISTRICT 12

The district is located almost entirely within El Paso County, with a sliver from Green Mountain Falls in Teller County. In El Paso County, the district includes Cascade-Chipita Park, Colorado Springs, Fort Carson, Fountain, Manitou Springs, Rock Creek Park and Security-Widefield. The district practically has an even competitive index between Democrats and Republicans.      

Democrats: 20,973; Republicans: 24,849; Unaffiliated: 51,882; Total active voters: 100,109

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

Name: Adriana Cuva

Phone number: 719-648-5967

Emailadrianaforcolorado@gmail.com

Websiteadrianaforcolorado.com

Adriana Cuva did not answer the questionnaire. 

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Stan Vanderwerf.

Stan Vanderwerf.jpg

Stan Vanderwerf.



Name: Stan VanderWerf

Phone number: 719-640-8879

Email:s.vanderwerf@comcast.net

Website: stanvanderwerfcoloradosenate.com

Mailing address: 6510-A South Academy Blvd, PMB 168, Colorado Springs, CO 80906

Education: Industrial Engineering, Purdue University, 1983; Master of Arts in International Relations, University of Dayton, 1986; Master of Arts in National Resource Strategies, Industrial College of the Armed Forces, 2006 

Why should the voters elect you to office? 

I am an accomplished conservative public servant with executive experience. I have two terms as a County Commissioner and I spent 28 years as an Air Force officer. I’ve been part of the legislative, public policy, and fiscal processes at the municipal, state, and federal level. As a Commissioner, I expanded many services, improved infrastructure, enhanced partnerships, fully funded law enforcement, and helped grow our economy and job opportunities. I am ready for this job.

What is your top priority if elected and how will it be funded? 

My top priorities are public safety and economic health. Each problem exacerbates the other, and badly designed legislation has made both worse. I will support law enforcement, promote attainable housing through economic opportunity, and reduce regulatory and tax burdens. I will champion the personal and market freedoms that make our communities strong. When government steps out of our way, private action spurs the growth that empowers healthy, vibrant institutions and communities.

SENATE DISTRICT 18

The district is located entirely within Boulder County, including Gunbarrel, Louisville, Niwot, Paragon Estates, Superior and Valmont. The district’s competitive index highly favors Democrats. 

Democrats: 46,510; Republicans: 7,505; Unaffiliated: 102,618; Total: 102,618

DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

judy amabile

State Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, who is running to represent Senate District 18 in 2024.

judyforcolorado.com

judy amabile

State Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, who is running to represent Senate District 18 in 2024. 






Name: Judy Amabile

Phone number: 303-517-4698

Email: judy@judyamabile.com

Website: judyforcolorado.com

Mailing address: 820 Spruce Street, Boulder, CO 80302

Education: Bachelor’s degree, University of Colorado Boulder, 1980. MBA, University of Colorado Boulder, 1985

Why should the voters elect you to office?

I have had four successful years as the HD-49 Representative. I have delivered real results for my constituents on climate, energy and environment, access to mental health treatment, criminal justice reform and housing.

What is your top priority if elected and how will it be funded? 

I want to continue my work in all of these areas. I have been successful at securing funding for my policies through the general fund, ARPA funds, cash funds and federal matching funds.

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Jovita Schiffer

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Jovita Schiffer



Name: Jovita Schiffer

Email: jovita@jovitaschiffer.com

Website: www.jovitaschiffer.com

Why should the voters elect you to office?

I’ve lived and led in Boulder County for 25 years. My leadership experience includes human resources director, owning a small business, and leading a team of 150 instructors and volunteers in BVSD. I have served on boards, including the Colorado Department of Education, consulted for CU’s School of Education, and co-authored grad courses for CU’s Renée Crown Institute. My experience advocating for economic stability, equity, and well-being in our community will benefit everyone in SD18.

What is your top priority if elected and how will it be funded?

I will evaluate every bill that comes across my desk for its ability to enhance economic stability, equity, and well-being for all SD18 residents. I will spend my first year working on community-centered, impactful bills that do not further burden the state budget, such as banning the sale, purchase, and transfer of assault weapons and removing the state prohibition on rent control. Both policies have strong support in SD18; neither has a significant fiscal note.

SENATE DISTRICT 19

The bulk of the district is located within Jefferson County, with a sliver from Adams County. Democrats holds the competitive index advantage in the district.    

Democrats: 33,047; Republicans: 25,323; Unaffiliated: 57,926; Total: 118,445

DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

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Obi Ezeadi

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Obi Ezeadi



Name: Obi Ezeadi

Phone number: 720-447-5606

Email: obiezeadi@gmail.com

Website: www.voteobi.com

Mailing address: 9596 W 89th Place, Westminster

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, minor in Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, 2006; Master of Business Administration in Finance and Marketing, Rutgers Business School, 2009; professional certifications: strategic planning, project management, and supply management

Why should the voters elect you to office?

Voters should elect me to restore effective governance: collaboration, civility, and problem-solving. They should choose me to bring my working-class perspective to a government often detached from everyday struggles. With proven leadership in housing the poor, supporting seniors, and educating youth, plus extensive experience in housing, healthcare, and technology, I am uniquely equipped to end government dysfunction. Simply put, elect me for positive change and a government that truly works for everyone.

What is your top priority if elected and how will it be funded?

My top priority is reducing living costs and supporting our schools. I’ll expand affordable childcare options, support our seniors with affordable healthcare and services, increase homeownership choices like townhomes and condos, and ensure our public schools are fully funded. Funding will come from streamlined regulations, pursuing federal grants, and efficiently reallocating our state’s budget to focus on these critical areas, ensuring every dollar benefits our communities directly.

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Lindsey Daugherty

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Lindsey Daugherty



Name: Rep. Lindsey Daugherty

Phone number: 970-290-8465

Email: Lindsey@LindseyforColorado.com

Website: www.lindseyforcolorado.com

Mailing address: Lindsey For Colorado, P.O. Box 1643, Arvada, CO 80001

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, University of Northern Iowa, 2008; Juris Doctorate, University of Denver, 2012

Why should the voters elect you to office? 

Voters should elect me to office because I have the heart to fight for progressive values and the experience to actually make those principles a reality for everyday Coloradans. At the state legislature, I have fought hard to codify the right to an abortion in Colorado, preserve our access to quality, affordable, and transparent healthcare, and safeguard the rights of workers. I am running for state Senate to fight for us and our shared values.

What is your top priority if elected and how will it be funded?

As an attorney championing abused children in court, my top priority has always been the safety and well-being of our children. I am proud to have sponsored many pieces of legislation in the past (HB24-1017, HB21-1119, & HB22-1038) to support Colorado’s youth and have worked hard to make sure Colorado’s Department of Human Services is fully-funded. Colorado’s children deserve to be set-up for success so that they can thrive and I will always prioritize Colorado’s childrens.

SENATE DISTRICT 23

The district includes portions of Larimer and Weld counties. In Larimer, it covers Berthoud, Fort Collins, Johnstown, Timnath and Windsor. In Weld, it includes Dacono, Erie, Firestone, Frederick, Mead, Milliken, Northglenn and Thornton. 

Democrats: 22,529; Republicans: 40,239; Unaffiliated: 61,833; Total active voters: 127,063

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY

Natalie Abshier.png

Natalie Abshier

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Natalie Abshier



Name: Natalie Abshier

Party: Republican

Phone number: 970-535-0155

Email: natalie@natalieforcolorado.com

Website: natalieforcolorado.com

Mailing address: 125 Hunters Cove Road Mead, CO 80542

Education: Associates, Metro State, 1984; attended University of Colorado, 1986; Operational Management, Colorado Christian University, 2010

Why should the voters elect you to office?

I’m running to serve the people of Colorado, not to build a political career. Coloradans are fed up watching elected representatives fail to the keep commitments made to their voters and instead see them pander to lobbyists, PACs and special interest groups who line their campaign accounts in preparation for the next election. As your next SD23 Senator, accountability is important and I look forward to being held accountable to the people who elect me.

What is your top priority if elected and how will it be funded?

Colorado citizens must come first before illegal immigrants who’ve come here through by reckless Democrat policies. Open borders are detrimental not only to the citizens of this country but also to the people who are making their way here. It’s my priority to stop funding illegal immigration in Colorado and enforce the laws already in place. We must stop sanctuary statuses that are responsible for death and destruction across Colorado. Legal immigration is humane immigration.

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Barbara Kirkmeyer

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Barbara Kirkmeyer



Name: Barb Kirkmeyer

Phone number: 720-966-3049

Email: kirkmeyerforcolorado@gmail.com

Website: KirkmeyerforColorado.com

Mailing address: 6100 County Road 4, Brighton, CO 80603

Education: Bachelor in Science, University of Colorado, 1980

Why should the voters return you to office?

Voters who know me appreciate my unbreakable, conservative grit and determination that places a much-needed check on the very left-wing, Democrat-dominated legislature. I have repeatedly gone to bat for my constituents in defense of conservative policies, with considerable success. As an example, I helped negotiate and pass significant property tax relief. I have been a strong advocate for our agriculture and energy workers and for tougher penalties on criminals and fentanyl dealers.

What is your top priority if returned to office and how will it be funded? 

My top priority will be public safety. Far-left, woke policies have turned Colorado into one of the most dangerous states in America. We can fix this. When you punish crime, you get less of it. I want to restore respect for the rule of law, back our first responders, end the “defund the police” movement once and for all, rein in sanctuary cities, and ensure tough sentencing for repeat criminals and fentanyl dealers.

SENATE DISTRICT 28

The district straddles Adams and Arapahoe counties. It includes Aurora, Watkins and Aetna Estates. Democrats hold the competitive index edge in the district.    

Democrats: 28,920; Republican: 11,300; Unaffiliated: 41,890; Total active voters: 84,221

DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY 

Mike Weissman

Mike Weissman

Mike Weissman

Mike Weissman



Name: Mike Weissman

Phone number: 720-432-3850

Email: mike@mikeweissman.com

Website: mikeweissman.com

Mailing address: 1165 Ouray St., Aurora CO 80011

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Tufts University, 2003; Juris Doctorate, University of Colorado Law School, 2013

Why should the voters elect you to office? 

I am a hard-working, proven, progressive problem solver. I have passed over 100 bills to reform tax laws, fund affordable housing, protect renters and consumers, fight climate change and more. I am unafraid to take on hard, complex issues or powerful opposition if that is what my community and our state need. At the same time, I can get things done in bipartisan way including tough issues like property taxes and criminal justice legislation.

What is your top priority if elected and how will it be funded?

For years I have been thinking about making post high school education options more available for students and families for whom a four-year college program is not the right choice or financially out of reach. Building on existing efforts like concurrent enrollment and our community colleges is part of this, as is increasing awareness of existing financial aid options. Funding could be by addressing inefficiencies in our tax code.

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Idris Keith

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Idris Keith



Name: Idris Keith

Party: Democrat

Email: info@idriskeith.com

Website: www.idriskeith.com

Mailing Address: PO Box 462345, Aurora, CO 80046

Education: Bachelor of Arts, Morehouse College 

Why should voters elect you to office?

Leadership and character matter. As a dedicated husband, father, attorney, and public servant, I understand the need for competent leadership that reflects the diversity of Senate District 28. All children deserve schools that are safe and well-funded. I support small businesses, including woman-owned and minority-owned entities. Gun violence must stop. I am the only candidate who accepted voluntary spending limits and will, therefore, be your voice on these issues, and more, in the Colorado Senate.

What is your top priority if elected and how will it be funded?

My top priority is strengthening Colorado’s economy by creating affordable, high-quality housing and supporting better-paying, sustainable jobs. We’ll invest in public schools and more efficient transportation, expand affordable healthcare using existing tax revenues, leverage federal grant resources, and foster effective public-private partnerships with measurable outcomes. Together, we can build a Colorado that works for all and where everyone has a voice. We will protect the present, while building a more prosperous future.

Editor’s note: Candidates are listed in the order they appear on ballots. Active voter registration numbers are current as of the Colorado Secretary of State’s update on June 1, 2024.

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