Victor Marx, a self-described "high-risk missionary" and founder of All Things Possible Ministries, has won the Republican nomination for Colorado governor, according to projections from multiple news outlets. Marx narrowly defeated state Sen. Barb Kirkmeyer and state Rep. Scott Bottoms in the GOP primary, securing 39.9% of the vote compared to Kirkmeyer's 39.4%. The race remained undecided for over a week due to the close margin and the need to count military, overseas, and cured ballots.
Marx, a former Marine, has gained attention for his controversial claims, including allegations that he was forced to kill a man at age 7 and possibly others in self-defense. He has also described rescuing women and children from captivity, including a mission to free kidnapped girls from Islamic State territory. His campaign emphasizes reducing government spending, combating crime, and supporting law enforcement.
Marx will face Democratic nominee Phil Weiser, the state attorney general, in the November general election. Colorado has not elected a Republican governor since 1998, and Democrats have won all but two gubernatorial elections since 1974. Weiser criticized Marx's nomination, stating that his views are "far out of step with Coloradans."
Kirkmeyer and Bottoms, both more experienced politicians, have said they would not endorse Marx if he became the nominee. Marx's victory has sparked debate over his unconventional background and claims, which have drawn both skepticism and support from grassroots conservatives.