Rep. Jared Polis, D-Colo., will join Colorado’s crowded race for governor in 2018, the congressman announced Sunday.
Polis, a fifth-term lawmaker, said he intends to focus his campaign on the issues of renewable energy and free early childhood education in his bid to replace Gov. John Hickenlooper, who is term limited.
“I’m running to be your next governor because I want to turn bold ideas into real results for your family,” Polis said in a official statement. “Colorado can lead the way into the future, and, together, we can build an economy that works for everybody — not just those at the top.”
The Colorado lawmaker, who represents Boulder — a liberal stronghold — vows to make the state “completely energy independent,” with 100 percent renewable energy by 2040, and to ensure parents can access free preschool or kindergarten for children age 3 and older.
In the Democratic primary, Polis will face off against fellow congressman Ed Perlmutter, D-Colo.; former state Sen. Mike Johnston; Cary Kennedy, a former state treasurer; and businessman Noel Ginsburg.
Those running for the Republicans include Doug Robinson, the nephew of Mitt Romney; George Brauchler, a prosecutor; and former state legislator Victor Mitchell.
The Denver Post first reported Polis’ intention to run for governor.
