Colorado Republican Rep. Ken Buck to Resign, Adding Uncertainty to House Majority
ICARO Media Group
In a surprising announcement, Colorado Republican Representative Ken Buck revealed on Tuesday that he will be resigning from his position next week. Buck's departure will not only narrow the already fragile House majority for the Republican party but also potentially disrupt Representative Lauren Boebert's bid to succeed him.
Buck, a staunch conservative who had decided against seeking reelection, cited growing dissatisfaction with his party's handling of former President Donald Trump as a reason for his resignation. The unexpected news came during a House Judiciary Committee hearing on Special Counsel Robert Hur's investigation into President Joe Biden's handling of classified documents. Buck, the third-ranking Republican on the committee, expressed frustration over being unable to ask a question during the hearing.
During an interview on CNN, Buck voiced his concerns about the lack of decorum and professionalism in Congress. He lamented the descent into bickering and nonsensical behavior, stating that it was the worst he had witnessed in his nine-year tenure.
Buck's resignation, slated for March 22, will result in a reduced House majority for the GOP, with only a five-seat margin to maintain. Additionally, it will trigger a special election to fill the remainder of his term as per Colorado law. Democratic Governor Jared Polis announced on Tuesday that the special election would be held on June 25, which coincides with the Republican primary to select Buck's long-term replacement.
Lauren Boebert, among several Republicans contending in the primary, had relocated to the district in hopes of securing the more Republican-friendly seat. However, political insiders speculate that the controversial Boebert may not be chosen as the nominee for the special election. Her lack of prior ties to the district and divisive tactics have caused resentment within the party. This means that there will be just one Republican nominee on the June 25 special election ballot, facing off against the Democrat nominee.
Buck's departure not only poses a challenge for Republicans to maintain their majority but also creates uncertainty in the primary race. The nominee chosen by the Republican committee for the special election will have a significant advantage in the primary contest. Buck alluded to the influence of the local committee in determining his successor, expressing confidence that they will do a great job.
Despite his resignation, Buck expressed a desire to remain involved in politics, particularly in candidate selection and election-related matters. As a former federal prosecutor and district attorney, Buck hopes to contribute to the upcoming election cycle by helping choose the best candidate for the job.
While Buck has been a member of the ultraconservative House Freedom Caucus and a staunch Trump supporter, he made headlines by breaking ranks with his party on key issues following the 2020 election. He voted to certify Biden's presidential win and against the Republican push to impeach Biden. Buck also voted against making Representative Jim Jordan, a prominent Trump ally, the speaker.
Buck's resignation and the subsequent special election will undoubtedly add another layer of complexity to the already tumultuous political landscape. With the House majority hanging in the balance and the primary race taking unexpected turns, the ensuing months will prove crucial for both parties as they navigate these changing dynamics.