Hurd's Lead Grows to 5,000 Votes in Colorado District 3

Jeff Hurd’s advantage in the race for Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District widened to just over 5,000 votes as of 4:45 p.m. on Wednesday. The Grand Junction attorney currently holds 49.2% of the reported votes, while his challenger, Dwayne Romero, trails with 47.6%.

The lead was not immediate. Romero held the advantage in the early returns on Tuesday night. Hurd reclaimed the top spot early Wednesday morning. The Republican noted on X that the contest remains tight and that ballots are still being processed. He stated, “This race is close and ballots are still being counted. We’re going to give our county clerks and election workers the time they need to do their jobs.”

This district covers the rugged terrain of Colorado’s Western Slope and extends into the southern part of the state, including Pueblo. Republicans have controlled this seat since 2011. It stands out as one of three undecided races involving Republican incumbents following a strong showing by Democratic candidates across the country on Tuesday.

The election results reflect a mixed national trend. While Hurd holds a slim lead, Republican incumbent Gabe Evans lost his bid for reelection in the 8th Congressional District to Democrat Manny Rutinel. The 3rd District is a key battleground where both candidates have emphasized different aspects of their legislative records.

Hurd, 47, won the seat in 2024 after Lauren Boebert moved to run in a different district. During his reelection campaign, he highlighted times when he voted against the Trump administration. Romero, 61, is a Snowmass Village resident and former Aspen City Council member. He entered the race four months before the June primary and has focused his campaign on criticizing Hurd’s support for the administration’s agenda.

Two recent polls, one from Romero’s campaign and the other from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, showed the candidates within the margin of error. Romero, an Army veteran, said he would oppose the war in Iran if elected. He also pledged to reverse parts of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, citing Medicaid cuts as a primary concern for district residents.

Hurd voted for the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and supports the current war in Iran. He has positioned himself as a collaborator with the Republican administration, despite opposing some of its policies like tariffs and public land sales.