DENVER – Today, the Colorado Senate Republican Caucus held leadership elections following the resignation of former Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen. 

At the leadership elections this afternoon, the Senate Republican Caucus elected Senator Cleave Simpson from Alamosa to serve as the Senate Minority Leader.

“I’m honored by the trust my colleagues have placed in me to lead the Senate Republican Caucus,” Senator Simpson said. “I want to thank Senator Paul Lundeen for his years of steadfast leadership and principled service to this caucus and to the people of Colorado. His guidance has strengthened our team and helped lay the foundation for the work ahead. Coloradans are facing real challenges: rising costs, public safety concerns, and a growing sense that their voices aren’t being heard at the Capitol. During this interim and going into next year’s session, this caucus will remain committed to standing up for hardworking families and offering real, common-sense solutions. I’m proud to lead this dedicated team as we fight for a stronger, safer, and more affordable Colorado.” 

Additionally, the Senate Republicans elected Senator Lisa Frizell (R – Castle Rock) to serve as the Assistant Senate Minority Leader.

“I am deeply honored to serve the Republican Caucus as Assistant Minority Leader,” Senator Frizell said. “It’s time for our caucus to begin a new chapter, and I believe that by working together and with intention our future is a bright one.”

The following Senators will remain in their current leadership roles: 

• Senate Minority Caucus Chair – Byron Pelton (R – Sterling)
• Senate Minority Whip – Janice Rich (R – Grand Junction)
• Joint Budget Committee Member – Barbara Kirkmeyer (R – Weld County)