Weiser Names Republican Simpson to Lead Colorado Agriculture Department

Governor-elect Phil Weiser appointed State Senator Cleave Simpson as Colorado's next Agriculture Commissioner on Tuesday. Simpson is a Republican who represents the San Luis Valley, a region with a large agricultural population. Weiser had called for applicants of all party affiliations the day after his election victory. He stated, “If you're Republican, you're unaffiliated, you're a Democrat, I want you to apply because we need the very best people we can get to build the leadership that Colorado deserves.”

Simpson is a farmer and rancher who graduated from the Colorado School of Mines and Alamosa High School. His political website features the slogans “Rural Proud” and “Rural Strong.” In a written statement, Simpson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. He noted that water availability in spring determines what his family farm can grow each year. He said, “If confirmed, I’ll bring their experience to the governor’s cabinet and work with producers to keep land in agriculture for the next generation.”

Weiser described Simpson as a public servant who understands rural challenges. The governor-elect added, “I’m honored to have him as part of my cabinet as the Commissioner of Agriculture and look forward to working with him to deliver results for our state.” State Senator Lisa Frizell, the Assistant Minority Leader, said Republicans are thrilled with the selection. She told Denver7 that the appointment serves as an olive branch to rural areas. Frizell noted that the state has neglected rural issues like road infrastructure in recent years.

Political expert Alton Dillard pointed out that Governor Jared Polis skipped debates on the Western Slope during his campaigns in 2018 and 2022. Dillard said the new cabinet pick helps bridge the urban-rural divide. He added, “there's going to be a feeling of a couple things that Governor-elect Weiser is really working to bridge that urban-rural divide.” Dillard observed that Democrats now hold a supermajority in both houses of the legislature. This gives them the power to override vetoes and propose constitutional amendments.

Dillard said the new legislature setup means Republicans are less essential to the process. He stated, “You want some of that tension. You want some of those dual voices.” Frizell plans to run for Minority Leader this Saturday. She acknowledged that the GOP caucus will face challenges and likely lose committee seats. Frizell said she will work to build positive relationships with Democratic leaders, including Senator Dylan Roberts.

When asked about the recent election results, Frizell said Republicans are still unpacking the data. She emphasized the need to look at nationwide trends rather than acting myopically. She added, “This is a great state, and we are all here because we love it.” Frizell urged Coloradans to hold their elected officials accountable over the next two years.

Weiser also named other cabinet members on Tuesday. Jeni Arndt, a former Fort Collins mayor and state representative, will serve as Director of Rural Advancement. Scott Steinbrecher, the current Deputy Attorney General, will become Senior Director of Water Policy. Dominick Moreno, a former state senator and majority leader, will serve as the budget director for the Governor's Office. Moreno currently works as Deputy Chief Operating Officer for Denver Mayor Mike Johnston.