Republican endorsements split in Colorado Springs-area congressional primary

A view of the Colorado Republican Party website. (Colorado Newsline)

Two candidates vying for the Republican nomination in Colorado’s 5th Congressional District are drawing support from different sides of the party.

Colorado Republican Party Chair Dave Williams, who former President Donald Trump has endorsed , also won the support of the House Freedom Fund, which backs candidates on behalf of the far-right House Freedom Caucus. U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, who is now running for election in the 4th Congressional District, though she represents the 3rd District, is a member of the caucus.

The House Freedom Fund’s endorsement said Williams is an “unapologetic conservative” who “stands in stark contrast to many party chairs in that he doesn’t cower to pressure.” It also highlighted Trump’s endorsement.

Boebert echoed support for Williams in a post on X , formerly Twitter, on Monday: “We’ve got enough cranks in Congress already. The PEOPLE want Dave Williams!”

Outgoing U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn, a Republican who has represented the district centered in Colorado Springs since 2007, endorsed Jeff Crank, a longtime GOP operative also vying for the Republican nomination.

Crank also has support from Speaker of the House Mike Johnson.

Williams announced his candidacy in an official state GOP email and has been the target of a formal campaign-finance complaint and bitter criticism from fellow Republicans over his conduct as party chair, including additional emails and a mailer from the party criticizing Crank.

Crank’s fundraising and spending has outpaced Williams so far.

Colorado’s primary election will take place on June 25.

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