Colorado Governor Signals Openness to Releasing Tina Peters Amid Trump Pressure

Polis' comments draw rebuke from state officials who say it would send the wrong message ahead of midterms.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Colorado's Democratic governor, Jared Polis, is signaling his openness to granting clemency to former county clerk Tina Peters, who was convicted in a scheme to find proof of fraud in the 2020 presidential election. Polis' comments have drawn swift criticism from the state's attorney general, secretary of state, and the association representing local election officials, who say such an action would send the wrong message ahead of this year's midterm elections.

Why it matters

Peters has become a hero to many who support former President Trump's false claims that the 2020 election was stolen. Trump has threatened 'harsh measures' against Colorado unless the state releases Peters, and his administration has cut off funding to the state. Polis' comments have raised concerns that he may be succumbing to political pressure from Trump and his supporters, which could undermine public confidence in the integrity of Colorado's elections.

The details

Peters was convicted of state crimes for sneaking in an outside computer expert to copy images of her county's election computer system before and after state officials updated it in 2021. A photo and video of confidential voting system passwords were later posted on social media and a conservative website. She said she had a duty to preserve the information as clerk. Peters was found guilty of three counts of attempting to influence a public servant and one count each of conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation, first-degree official misconduct, violation of duty, and failure to comply with the requirements of the secretary of state.

  • In January, Polis raised concerns that Peters' nine-year prison sentence was 'harsh' given that she didn't have a criminal history.
  • On Tuesday, Polis posted on social media that he is considering Peters' case as he looks at 'sentencing disparities' in Colorado.

The players

Jared Polis

The Democratic governor of Colorado who is signaling his openness to granting clemency to Tina Peters.

Tina Peters

The former Mesa County Clerk who was convicted in a scheme that attempted to find proof of fraud in the 2020 presidential election and is currently serving a nine-year prison sentence.

Jena Griswold

Colorado's Democratic Secretary of State who is running for state attorney general and said Polis' comments were 'shocking and worrisome'.

Phil Weiser

Colorado's Democratic Attorney General whose office helped prosecute Peters and said she has not demonstrated any remorse for her actions.

Michael Bennet

The Democratic U.S. Senator who is hoping to replace Polis as governor and said Peters shouldn't be pardoned or have her sentence commuted.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether to allow Tina Peters to be released on bail while her convictions are appealed.

The takeaway

This case highlights the delicate balance between upholding the rule of law and responding to political pressure, especially when it comes to issues that have become highly polarized and partisan. The potential release of Tina Peters could undermine public trust in Colorado's elections if not handled carefully and with a focus on principles of justice, not political expediency.