Where the Democratic governor candidates differ
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Michael Bennet, right, answers a question as fellow candidate Attorney General Phil Weiser looks into the audience a January campaign forum. Photo: Timothy Hurst/Denver Post via Getty Images
Michael Bennet and Phil Weiser share plenty of similarities in the Democratic primary for Colorado governor.
- Yes, but: The differences emerge on key issues, such as health care and climate policy.
Why it matters: Tuesday's primary election will likely decide Colorado's next governor in a state where Democrats hold a strong statewide advantage.
The big picture: Bennet is framing Colorado's problems as systemic crises that require bolder action. Weiser is more likely to emphasize his state-level experience and a more pragmatic approach.
What they're saying: "In general, I'd say my approach is more ambitious than his," Bennet told the Denver Post.
- "I've got broader experience and broader plans," Weiser said.
Healthcare
Bennet is pushing for a public option, one that reaches lower-income people who can't afford coverage on the state's insurance marketplace. The U.S. senator also supports allowing people to buy into the state employee health plan, which he says would spread costs across a wider pool and liability.
- Weiser, the attorney general, is promoting universal access to care, in part by allowing small businesses and school districts to join the state employee health plan. He says he would change the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights spending cap to fund the program.
Climate
Bennet is proposing a new cap-and-invest system to give businesses more flexibility to hit emission targets with trades on a carbon marketplace. He would invest proceeds in cleaner-energy programs.
- Weiser says Bennet's plan wouldn't work, and that he's focused on investing in geothermal energy, battery storage and solar and wind energy.
Other issues
The two split in other ways, a recent Colorado Sun debate revealed.
- Bennet wants a statewide ban on cellphones in schools; Weiser would let districts to develop their own policies.
- Weiser wants to lift Colorado's ban on rent control. Bennet has not committed to the idea.
- Bennet opposes tax credits for data centers. Weiser supports them.
- Weiser plans to ban corporate political contributions. Bennet has not committed.
- Bennet is leaving open the door to accept a Trump administration tax credit for education that could benefit private schools. Weiser said he wouldn't take the money.
Reality check: Despite their differences, the top issue for Democratic voters is a plan to block President Trump. How voters view the candidates through that lens is expected to define the race.