Low turnout a factor in GOP Senate primary

The GOP Senate primary is a race to watch in Tuesday’s primary election.

Five republicans look to challenge Democratic incumbent Sen. Michael Bennet: Springs businessman Robert Blaha, former Aurora City Councilman Ryan Frazier, El Paso County Commissioner Darryl Glenn, former CSU athletic director Jack Graham and former state representative Jon Keyser.

“I see this being remembered as a lost opportunity for the Republican party,” Colorado College professor Bob Loevy said. “Michael Bennet looked vulnerable. It was an obvious opportunity to field a strong candidate. With the group of second stringers without much difference between them, there is really little incentive for registered Republicans to turnout and vote in this primary.”

According to the Secretary of State’s office turnout is at 24 percent as of Monday.

It’s higher in El Paso County.

“We are going to have probably 30 percent turnout. That means 7 out of 10 voters haven’t exercised their right to vote,” El Paso County Clerk and Recorder Chuck Broerman said.

Glenn emerged as the late favorite with several key endorsements from solid conservatives including one from Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin and Focus on the Family founder James Dobson.

Bennet’s bringing in millions for the general election.

Loevy believes the GOP still has a chance if things align in November.

If there is a Republican sweep, if Donald Trump really gets the vote out, they could ride in on his coattails,” Loevy said.

Ballots must be returned by Tuesday at 7 p.m.