A vacancy committee has selected Republican Lynda Zamora Wilson to represent Senate District 9 following the resignation of former Minority Leader Paul Lundeen of Monument. 

Wilson, a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel, has worked as an analyst for the Pentagon and a professor of economics at the United States Air Force Academy. She previously ran against Lundeen in 2022, receiving just over 33% of the vote.

On Monday, a vacancy committee comprised of El Paso County Republicans selected Wilson over former state Rep. Terri Carver on a 63-50 vote to represent the Senate district, which covers parts of northern Colorado Springs, including the Air Force Academy and the towns of Monument and Palmer Lake.

“I am thrilled to welcome Senator-Elect Wilson as she joins the Colorado State Senate,” said Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson. “I know Senator-Elect Wilson will play a vital role in our effort to make Colorado a better place for everyone, from addressing rising costs and public safety concerns, to ensuring that all Coloradans feel their voices are truly being heard in the Capitol.”

Simpson added: “Her passion and commitment to serving her constituents will be invaluable as we work together to address the challenges facing our state and build a brighter future for all.”

“Senator-Elect Wilson’s dedication to public service and her experience will bring a needed voice to the State Capitol,” said House Minority Leader Pugliese of Colorado Springs. “We look forward to working with her to address the challenges facing Colorado families.”

Last month, Lundeen announced he would be resigning from the state legislature to take a leadership role with the American Excellence Foundation in Washington, D.C. 

“Serving Colorado has been an honor and blessing,” Lundeen said in a statement. “I am grateful to the people of Senate District 9 for the opportunity to fight for policies that empower individuals, protect our communities, and promote prosperity. As I transition to a national platform, I am eager to continue advocating for personal freedom, economic opportunity, and common-sense conservative values.”