The central committee of the Colorado Democratic Party recently voted overwhelmingly, with 89.8% in favor, to censure Governor Jared Polis. This decision temporarily prohibits him from speaking or participating in party-sponsored events. The censure comes after Polis commuted the sentence of former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters, who received nearly nine years for tampering with election equipment based on unproven fraud claims.

Governor Polis justified his decision by stating that, in his view, the sentence given to Peters was excessively harsh compared to similar cases of corruption. He noted that most cases resulted in probation or shorter sentences. “My goal is to make the right decision with the information I have,” said Polis, adding that the case should not be viewed through a partisan lens.

Mesa County District Attorney Dan Rubenstein disagrees with Polis, emphasizing that Peters’ actions involved a prolonged pattern of deception. He highlighted that Peters could have faced 20 years and criticized the governor for going against the clemency board’s advice. Rubenstein stated, “That’s not humility, that’s arrogance—to believe that your judgment should substitute those of others because you think you’re smarter than them.”

Democrats criticizing Polis argue that his actions undermine the party’s mission to uphold democracy. They claim the clemency decision damages trust in Colorado’s election security. The Colorado Democratic Party issued a statement condemning the decision, asserting that it compromises the integrity and efforts to defend democratic institutions.

The statement emphasized the importance of holding individuals accountable for election-related misdeeds, irrespective of political affiliations. The party reaffirmed its commitment to secure and fair elections and condemned disinformation in all forms.

Until further action, Governor Polis is barred from attending or speaking at party events such as the Obama Gala and DemFest as an honored guest or recognized representative.