The 2026 Colorado gubernatorial election is a critical opportunity for child care owners and directors to influence policies that directly affect your industry. Governors shape funding for early childhood programs, licensing regulations, subsidy programs like the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP), workforce support for providers, and initiatives for expanding access and affordability. Recent state efforts—such as universal preschool expansions, provider rate increases, and business support programs—highlight how gubernatorial leadership can either bolster or hinder child care businesses. Your voice and involvement in the political process can help ensure the next governor prioritizes sustainable funding, reduced regulatory burdens where safe, and support for providers to thrive while serving families.
Top Candidates by Fundraising (as of early 2026 reports)
Fundraising is a strong indicator of campaign viability, momentum, and organizational strength in Colorado's competitive race to succeed term-limited Gov. Jared Polis.
- Democratic Primary Leaders (far outpacing Republicans overall):
- Phil Weiser (Attorney General): His campaign raised about $4.6 million total through 2025, with nearly $3.5 million cash on hand entering 2026. Supported by additional funds via independent committees (e.g., Fighting for Colorado ~$563,000 raised).
- Michael Bennet (U.S. Senator): Campaign raised ~$3.5 million directly, bolstered by Rocky Mountain Way (independent committee) raising nearly $3.6 million, for a combined edge in resources.
- Republican Side (trailing significantly in funds):
- Victor Marx (former Marine and entrepreneur) emerged as the top GOP fundraiser, with ~$625,000 raised (and reports of nearing $1 million total including recent contributions).
- Others like State Sen. Barb Kirkmeyer (~$381,000) follow, but the field lags far behind Democrats.
These figures come from year-end 2025 filings and early 2026 reports; the race remains fluid, but money often correlates with visibility and ad spending.
How Child Care Owners/Directors Can Participate in the Process
Colorado's system gives voters—especially in the major parties—a direct role in narrowing the field before the general election. Here's a step-by-step outline to engage and help select your preferred candidate:
- Affiliate with a Party (if not already): Register or update your affiliation with the Democratic or Republican Party (or another if applicable) through your county clerk or online at govotecolorado.gov. This is essential for voting in the primary and participating in caucuses. If you wish to participate in your city caucus, you need to establish a party affiliation by February 9, 2026.
- Attend Precinct Caucuses (March 2026): These grassroots meetings (held by parties, between the 1st Tuesday and Saturday in March) allow you to vote on party business, endorse candidates, and elect delegates to assemblies. It's a low-barrier way to influence platforms and nominations early. Google "(Your County) (Your Party) caucus" to find out specifics for your part of the state. Try something new and consider becoming a delegate so that you can vote in the primary and help determine who will be on your ballot.
- Participate in Party Assemblies: Parties hold assemblies (March for Democrats and April for Republicans) where candidates present and seek at least 30% support for primary ballot placement.
- Vote in the Primary (June 30, 2026): The primary decides each party's nominee. As a registered party voter, you directly choose who advances to November 3, 2026 general election.
- Other Ways to Engage:
- Donate (within limits) or volunteer for campaigns aligned with your values.
- Attend town halls, forums, or candidate events focused on business/early childhood issues.
- Advocate via membership with ECEA to elevate child care priorities.
Selecting the Candidate That Best Reflects Your Business Values
Research candidates' platforms on child care—look at their websites, policy releases, and public statements. Understand that party politics impact the approaches that each candidate is likely to utilize. For example:
- Some emphasize lowering costs, expanding access, streamlining regulations, and provider support.
- Others may prioritize different economic or regulatory approaches.
Evaluate based on your priorities: subsidy stability, workforce benefits for providers, regulatory ease, funding for family child care homes, or economic impacts on small businesses like yours. Attend events or contact campaigns directly to ask about their vision for the industry.
Your involvement matters—the next governor will appoint leaders at the Department of Early Childhood and influence the legislature on key bills. By engaging now, child care professionals can help shape a supportive environment for your businesses and the families you serve. Start today: verify your voter registration, research candidates, and get involved in the process that will define Colorado's future for early care and education.
Join ECEA today!
Membership rates:
Homes/SACCs - $8/month
Basic Membership - $25/month
Plus Membership - $35/month
Pro Membership - $55/month
See member details here.
