Marine Veteran Victor Marx Assembles Military-Focused Gubernatorial Campaign in Colorado

Republican Colorado gubernatorial nominee Victor Marx, a Marine veteran, is focusing his campaign efforts on forming an all-Marine ticket. He believes this strategy will provide the necessary fortitude to counteract the rise of democratic socialist movements nationwide.

Marx recently stated, “There’s never been a successful socialism program, and socialism is merely another term for communism.” He shared these views in an interview with Fox News Digital.

After securing a win in Colorado’s primary election in June, Marx campaigned on issues such as public safety, social conservatism, and cost of living. His victory occurred amidst several primary wins for the left wing of the Democratic Party across the nation, including Colorado, where democratic socialist Melat Kiros defeated long-serving Rep. Diana DeGette. The primary results in Colorado were varied, but Kiros’ success represents a series of wins for progressive and democratic socialist candidates nationwide.

Marx’s Strategy: Military Discipline

In response to the perceived national rise of socialism and a shift towards progressivism at home, Marx advocates for a strong, disciplined government approach. He has selected retired Marine Col. George Markert as his running mate, aiming to bring military precision and “steely spines” to Colorado’s governance.

“People know what they’re going to get when they get Marines. We’ve got hard foreheads, steely spines, and high integrity,” Marx asserted.

Markert brings over thirty years of experience from the Marine Corps, with key leadership roles at U.S. Central Command and the 2nd and 4th Marine Logistics Groups. He transitioned into the private sector, managing field operations related to infrastructure throughout North America.

Marx, who founded All Things Possible Ministries, is marketing himself and Markert as political newcomers with the discipline and accountability required to face socialist movements.

Political Landscape and Safety Concerns

Marx’s approach contrasts sharply with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), whom he describes as well-organized, financially supported, and intent on reshaping Colorado governance.

The DSA backs policies such as the eventual abolition of police, thrusting public safety to the forefront of political debates. Colorado has struggled with crime rates that exceed national averages, recording approximately 476 violent crimes and 2,593 property crimes per 100,000 residents in 2024, rates significantly higher than the national figures from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Statistics.

Recent efforts by Colorado’s state leaders to implement policies perceived as threatening free speech and punishing certain beliefs have further enhanced the political divide.

Criticism and Call for Change

Marx criticized his opponent, Democratic Attorney General Phil Weiser, claiming that increased government spending hasn’t effectively improved safety conditions for Colorado citizens. Weiser has regularly contested Trump administration policies related to citizenship and immigration.

“He hasn’t made our state safer. It’s softer on crime, and we’ve experienced it,” Marx said. “Folks are ready for a change.”

According to Marx, Colorado residents are paying more taxes while receiving less from their government. He emphasized the significance of the upcoming election, “We’re one election away. It’s either me, or it’s a Democrat. And I lay the DSA at the Democrats’ feet.”

Fox News Digital asked for comments from Weiser regarding Marx’s claims. Political coverage is provided by Ashley J. DiMella for Fox News Digital.