The internal discord among House Republicans is becoming increasingly apparent, with members of the party sharply divided over how to handle their differences, and some even questioning whether there are any significant issues to address. This division is particularly evident in the case of Representative Lauren Boebert, who is encountering significant skepticism from constituents in her new district, which is even more conservative than her previous one.
The controversy surrounding Boebert seems unending, highlighted by a widely publicized incident where she was removed from a Denver musical for vaping inside the theater and inappropriately touching her companion. This episode has led some, like retired university employee Judy Scofield, to categorically rule out supporting Boebert in any future elections. Christopher Ware, another resident of Colorado’s 4th district, echoed Scofield’s reluctance to support Boebert, underscoring a broader sentiment of disapproval.
“I don’t appreciate, as a Christian, people saying they’re Christian to get your vote and then turning out to be a lowlife,” she explained to the Wall Street Journal. “And now I just kind of think of her as a lowlife.”
This sentiment is supported by polling data, which reveals Boebert’s widespread unpopularity across Colorado. A survey conducted by The Mountaineer, a left-leaning research organization, found that only 17% of voters in the state view her favorably. This is significantly lower than the favorability ratings of prominent figures like Donald Trump and Joe Biden, which stand at 36% and 40% respectively.
“I will not vote for her. Period,” he told WSJ. “She’s not one of us.”
GOP voter Tammi Flemming, meanwhile, told WSJ that Boebert has “not been well received” by Republicans due to “the shenanigans and the drama and moving districts.”
An in-depth investigation by the Independent in January scrutinized Boebert’s prospects in a competitive race, where she is criticized by individuals from both political parties. Accusations against her include opportunistic behavior and neglecting her constituents, particularly highlighted by her behavior at a showing of “Beetlejuice the Musical.”
A local Republican official expressed dismay at Boebert’s actions, suggesting that her overt pursuit of power for its own sake is alienating even her party members. The Independent’s coverage included interviews with a diverse group of Colorado residents, from Republicans in rural areas who prioritize gun rights over digital connectivity to determined Democrats and a conservative aspiring to fill the vacancy left by Representative Ken Buck.
Not all residents were aware of Boebert’s controversial actions, such as her ejection from a musical for inappropriate behavior or the altercation at a Colorado restaurant involving her ex-husband. However, Catherine Thurston, a local journalist, believes that Boebert’s disconnect from the community, particularly her lack of face-to-face engagement with constituents in rural areas like Limon, poses a significant obstacle to her electoral prospects.
Kyle Saunders, a political science professor at Colorado State University, suggests that even those currently unaware of Boebert’s more sensational actions will eventually learn of them, potentially influencing their support. The unfolding situation highlights a growing challenge within the Republican Party, as it grapples with internal divisions and the controversial actions of some of its members, raising questions about the impact on the party’s future and its relationship with the electorate.
