Common Cause led a coalition of voting rights and democracy organizations demanding Governor Polis reject clemency for Tina Peters after he posted on social media that he is considering it. 

The groups warn that granting clemency would embolden efforts by President Trump and his allies to undermine elections ahead of 2026. Peters was charged and convicted for leading an election security break in Colorado in 2021. The case was prosecuted by a Republican district attorney. 

“Granting clemency to Tina Peters would reward election deniers and send a clear message that you can interfere in Colorado’s elections without any consequences,” said Aly Belknap, Colorado Common Cause Executive Director. “Peters abused her position as a county clerk to undermine the very election systems she swore to protect. A jury of her peers convicted her of serious crimes, and no one — especially those entrusted with safeguarding our elections — is above the law.” 

Earlier this year, on the heels of the fifth anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack, Common Cause led a group of 18 voting and civil rights organizations in an initial response urging Governor Polis to decline Peters’ clemency. 

In 2025, President Trump issued executive pardons to roughly 1,500 people for their role in the deadly Jan. 6 attack aimed at overturning the results of the 2020 election he lost. By undoing accountability for those involved, Trump rewarded loyalists — and advocates warn clemency for Peters would send the same signal. 

The governor’s decision represents a critical test for Colorado’s democratic institutions amid continued pressure from President Trump and his allies. 

To read the letter, click here.