2024 Election Candidates

Republican presidential nominee Donald J. Trump Donald John Trump, the former 45th President of the United States, is making a bold return to the political stage in 2024 with a platform that seeks to reignite the nation's economic strength, reinforce national security, and reclaim what he sees as the core of American identity and values. With a distinguished career as a businessman, media personality, and politician, Trump draws attention to his prior accomplishments in office, where he significantly reduced federal regulations, slashed taxes, and spurred record economic growth. His vision for 2024 is built upon promises of achieving energy independence by revitalizing domestic energy production, fortifying the U.S. borders with enhanced security measures, and restoring law and order with a tough, no-nonsense approach to crime. At the heart of Trump's campaign is a commitment to uphold American sovereignty, focusing on renegotiating international trade agreements to put America first, and challenging global organizations that, in his view, fail to protect U.S. interests. He aims to reduce foreign dependency while promoting economic nationalism and self-sufficiency. His platform continues to resonate with voters who support protecting individual freedoms, reducing the size of government, and fostering American exceptionalism. Trump’s 2024 candidacy is framed as a fight to safeguard the nation’s legacy, with an emphasis on a strong economy, personal liberties, and a return to America-first policies that prioritize the well-being of U.S. citizens above all else.

A Colorado native, a husband, a father of five, and an attorney.  He is running for the 3rd Congressional District because he feels western and southern Colorado deserve a sincere, authentic, and hardworking Congressman. Someone who cares about policy and delivering results for communities and for working families, and who wants rural Colorado to thrive. Someone focused on doing something instead of just being someone.

Matt Soper, running for re-election in Colorado's House District 54 in 2024, is focused on advocating for the needs of rural communities in Western Colorado. His platform emphasizes protecting water rights, enhancing healthcare access in rural areas, and supporting local farmers. He is a strong proponent of bipartisan solutions, having worked on legislation to reduce crime and support the agricultural sector. Additionally, Soper prioritizes infrastructure development, such as improving rural roads, and works to defend the Western Slope's traditional values of liberty and self-reliance. He is highly engaged in community service, serving on multiple boards, including the Delta County Memorial Hospital and the Colorado Tourism Office.

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Soper serves on the Delta County Memorial Hospital District Board of Directors, the Colorado Tourism Office Board of Directors, the All-Payor Claims Database Board, the Delta County Museum Board, and the Advisory Council of the Technical College of the Rockies, along with serving as an ex officio member on Harmony Acres’ Board. Soper is a member of the Fruita, Palisade, and Delta Chambers of Commerce, Rotary, Elks, and Lions Clubs, and is a volunteer at the local homeless shelter.

Suckla is from Montezuma County.  He spends his time and energy as a rancher, farmer and auctioneer, with a history including logging, building, and landscaping. He believes his job is leaving the world better for our children. Larry Don and his wife Julie own a summer ranch at Groundhog where they run their cows. In the summertime they farm high quality grass hay and winter wheat. He also grows a crop of the famous Olathe sweet corn. He understands the value of Colorado Water Rights, and private property rights.  Suckla is a former county commissioner for Montezuma County. 

Representative Catlin describes himself as an advocate for the Western Slope. He promises to continue to advocate for the values held by the people in District 5. Discussions about Western Slope natural resources and economy, guide his policy in directions to improve and protect interests held by the citizens of SD 5. The economy of Western Colorado's is one of his highest priorities. He believes the people of western Colorado are the best stewards of the land and the environment. He promises to stand up and speak out when government or special interest groups encroach on our property rights.

Wright has 3 decades of experience in education. She has been a middle school educator, small business owner, charter school director, technical college board president, local school district board president, and member of the Colorado Association of School Boards. Strategically led the RE-1 school district through COVID as school board president with a focus on teaching and returning the students to the classroom in a positive learning environment. Experience working with the Colorado State Senate and House, served on the Senate Severance Committee. Active in the Republican Party, served as Precinct Co-Chair. 

Craig Fuller states he has been a Republican his entire adult life.  He is running for county commissioner because he wants to be sure the taxpayer’s money is being spent wisely, as opposed to the type of spending that is going on in the eastern part of the state.  He has no personal agenda or preconceived notions.  He believes a government official needs to remember that their service needs to be “Of the people, by the people, for the people.”  If they cannot remember that they have no business running in the first place.

Wendell is currently the incumbent County Commissioner representing District 3.  He will complete his first term in December of 2024. Prior public service includes Town of Hotchkiss Trustee from 2006 thru 2010, followed by two terms as Mayor from 2010 thru 2018. He has served as the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Board of County Commissioners. His additional roles while serving as a County Commissioner include Chair of the Gunnison Basin Roundtable, Club 20 Executive Team Member, a founding member of JOLT (Joint Organizations Leading Transition), and a member of the Delta Health Foundation Board.

District Attorney - 7th Judicial District Anna Cooling Anna Cooling has officially been named the replacement candidate for Seth Ryan, following his recent withdrawal from the race. Ms. Cooling is a distinguished legal professional with extensive expertise in Family Law. A lifelong resident of Montrose, she brings a deep connection to the community and over seven years of experience as Deputy District Attorney for the Seventh Judicial District. Her career in law is further enriched by a robust background in education, where she served in leadership roles as Assistant Principal at McLain High School (2003-2006) and Ken Caryl Middle School (1996-2003). Ms. Cooling holds both a Bachelor’s (1992) and Master’s degree (1996) from the University of Colorado and earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Denver in 2002, underscoring her dedication to public service and the pursuit of justice.

Rinard has been a Colorado resident since age 2; resident of Weld County since 2003.  Married with four children, aged 11 to 19.  Board member at Aspen Ridge Preparatory School, a public charter school in SVVSD, since 2016. Currently Vice President.  Owns and operates a 30-acre horse farm.  Family participates in sport of equestrian vaulting, competing nationally and internationally.

Scott served in the Colorado House from 2011 to 2014, representing House District 54 the first two years, and after redistricting, HD55. He was elected to the Senate in 2015 and served two four-year terms.  Scott was born in Ohio and grew up in Rifle, Colorado.  Scott began his work career with Conoco as a terminal manager and later with Williams Energy in Colorado and New Mexico. He founded several businesses in the energy sector, land development, logistics, sports, software, and construction.