FILE PHOTO: U.S. Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Representative Lauren Boebert (R-CO) hold a news conference to introduce their Surveillance Accountability Act, proposed legislation that would require government agencies to obtain a warrant before conducting surveillance on U.S. citizens, at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 23, 2026. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst/File Photo
Trump threatens to turn on Boebert, but it’s too late for a 2026 primary challenger
by Lindsey Toomer, Colorado Newsline
May 19, 2026
It is too late for another candidate to get on the June primary ballot in Colorado, despite President Donald Trump’s threat to back a primary challenger against longtime ally U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert.
Boebert, a Windsor Republican, joined U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie at several campaign events in Kentucky last week as he faced a primary challenger backed by Trump. Boebert posted on X emphasizing her support of both Trump and Massie, who led efforts to force a vote on releasing the Epstein files last year.
Massie lost his primary election Tuesday to a challenger backed by Trump.
Trump on his social media platform Truth Social asked if anyone is interested in running against Boebert, whom he called “Weak Minded” for campaigning for Massie.
“Even though I long ago endorsed Boebert, if the right person came along, it would be my Honor to withdraw that Endorsement, and endorse a good and proper alternative,” Trump said. “Just let me know, or announce your Candidacy, and I will be there for you!”
Boebert posted on X shortly after acknowledging that she saw Trump’s post, saying she is “not mad or offended.”
“I knew the risks when I agreed to stand by my friend Thomas Massie,” Boebert said. “I was, and will be, America First, America Always, and MAGA.”
The June primary ballots in Colorado have already been certified by Secretary of State Jena Griswold’s office, and county clerks mailed ballots to overseas voters this past weekend. Eligible voters can request a mail ballot for the June primary from their county clerk’s office as of Saturday.
Candidates from any party who were not on the primary ballot and want to run as a write-in candidate in the November general election can file an affidavit of interest with the secretary of state’s office no later than July 16, according to secretary spokesperson Jack Todd.
Boebert is running unopposed in the Republican primary. Eileen Laubacher, a retired Navy rear admiral and former National Security Council official, will be the sole name on the Democratic primary ballot, but Jenna Preston is running as a write-in candidate in the Democratic primary.
Republicans have a strong advantage in the 4th District, which includes most of Douglas County and the Eastern Plains.
Colorado’s primary election is on June 30.
Editor’s note: This story was updated at 6:06 p.m., May 19, 2026, to note that Rep. Thomas Massie lost his primary election.
Colorado Newsline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Colorado Newsline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Quentin Young for questions: info@coloradonewsline.com.