Democrat Jared Polis wins Colorado governor's race

By Nathaniel Weixel - 11/06/18 09:39 PM EST
 
Democrat Jared Polis wins Colorado governor's race
© Greg Nash

Democratic Rep. Jared PolisJared Schutz PolisColorado governor pokes fun at FaceApp Number of openly LGBTQ elected officials rose nearly 25 percent since 2018: report GOP gun rights activist arrested for flashing handgun at U.S. marshal MORE will be the new governor of Colorado, after he defeated Republican Walker Stapleton on Tuesday.

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The five-term congressman, who is the first openly gay man to win a gubernatorial race, pulled away from the Republican state treasurer in recent weeks, despite an onslaught of negative ads directed at him by outside groups. Polis gained the support of major environmental groups after making renewable energy and climate change major points in his campaign.

Stapleton was endorsed by President TrumpDonald John TrumpUS-Saudi Arabia policy needs a dose of 'realpolitik' Trump talks to Swedish leader about rapper A$AP Rocky, offers to vouch for his bail Matt Gaetz ahead of Mueller hearing: 'We are going to reelect the president' MORE. Trump lost Colorado in the 2016 presidential election to Democratic nominee Hillary ClintonHillary Diane Rodham ClintonMatt Gaetz ahead of Mueller hearing: 'We are going to reelect the president' What to expect when Mueller testifies: Not much McConnell challenger faces tougher path after rocky launch MORE by a 48-percent-to-43-percent margin.

Polis will replace Democrat John Hickenlooper, who was term-limited. Hickenlooper has long drawn speculation as a potential contender for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination, and recently said he was “leaning strongly” towards running.

Tags Hillary Clinton Donald Trump Jared Polis Colorado colorado governor