Voters in the western US state of Colorado will head to the polls this week in a round of primary elections that could influence the direction of the upcoming midterms in November.Primary elections involve voters choosing which candidate will represent their respective political parties in general elections and can offer insights into the issues and ideas motivating voters.Recommended Stories list of 3 itemsend of listThe Colorado primaries include several high-profile races being watched for their national significance, including the contest to replace outgoing Democratic Governor Jared Polis and elections for US Senate and House of Representatives seats.Which races are being watched, when will the election take place, and what can we expect to see? We answer those questions and more in this brief explainer.When is the election?The election will take place on Tuesday, June 30, 2026.When do polls open and close?Polls open at 7am (13:00 GMT) and close at 7pm local time (01:00 GMT on July 1).Which races are being watched?Colorado’s Democratic gubernatorial primary has drawn several high-profile officials, including one of the state’s two current US senators.The winner of the contest will replace outgoing Governor Polis, who is limited to one term. Republican voters will also select their gubernatorial candidate for the general election in November.Contested primary races are also being held for the US Senate, House of Representatives, and state positions, such as secretary of state and attorney general.Who are some of the main candidates?At the centre of the Democrat …
