Former U.S. Rep. Ken Buck, a longtime Colorado Republican, endorsed Democratic Attorney General Phil Weiser for governor on Wednesday, saying Weiser has the experience and character to lead the state. Buck said it would be the first time he has voted for a Democrat. He said his decision reflected Weiser’s record and the candidates in the race, not a change in his conservative views. “I am not endorsing the Democratic Party or its objectives,” Buck said. “I am a current active and strong believer in conservative politics, and am supporting Phil from that standpoint.” Weiser is running against Republican nominee Victor Marx and five independent or third-party candidates in the race to succeed term-limited Democratic Gov. Jared Polis. Former Republican congressman Greg Lopez, who left the GOP earlier this year, is running as an unaffiliated candidate. Buck said he valued Weiser’s willingness to hear opposing perspectives before making decisions. He also cited the attorney general’s work on technology monopoly issues, his understanding of state government and his record of working across party lines in the state Legislature. Buck said he believes Weiser would help rural residents feel included in decisions made at the state level. Weiser’s campaign announced Buck’s endorsement alongside support from more than a dozen current and former Republican officials and local leaders. Buck represented Colorado’s heavily Republican 4th Congressional District for five terms and chaired the state Republican Party from 2019 to 2021. He resigned from Congress in 2024, saying at the time that the Republican Party was refusing to confront facts and serious national problems. Buck criticized Marx, a ministry leader making his first run for office, saying he was not prepared to assemble and manage a state government. He said he chose Weiser because he viewed him as a candidate with a realistic chance of winning and the qualifications to govern. Buck also argued that Lopez’s candidacy could draw votes from the Republican nominee. Other Weiser endorsers include former Republican Attorney General Cynthia Coffman and former state House Speaker Russ George, who later served in state departments under governors of both parties. George said Weiser has made a point of listening to people across Colorado, including on the Western Slope and on water issues. Weiser said he was honored by support from across party lines. He said his priorities include making housing and health care more affordable, strengthening the economy and protecting rights and freedoms. Colorado voters began receiving ballots last week. Ballots must be returned to county clerks by 7 p.m. Nov. 3.