Rep. Junie Joseph Statement on the Commutation of Tina Peters

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

May 18, 2026

Rep. Junie Joseph Statement on the Commutation of Tina Peters

Boulder, CO — The commutation of Tina Peters by Governor Polis has been difficult and confusing for many Coloradans, not only because of the decision itself, but because of the conversations surrounding it.

The decision raises important considerations about how clemency actions are understood in the broader context of public trust in our elections. As the prime sponsor of SB 25-001, legislation designed to strengthen and protect voting rights in Colorado, and as a Colorado legislator committed to safeguarding democratic participation, I remain focused on preserving confidence in free, fair, and secure elections.

At the same time, the power to commute or pardon is a constitutional authority vested solely in the Governor. Governors of both parties have exercised clemency powers in difficult and controversial cases throughout American history. While people may strongly disagree with this particular decision, disagreement alone is not grounds for impeachment.

I was struck by Tina Peters’ public statement expressing remorse, acknowledging wrongdoing, and condemning threats and violence against election officials and public servants. Accountability matters. So does public trust. But Americans have also long believed in the possibility of growth, redemption, and second chances, even in difficult and imperfect circumstances.

That belief in redemption is part of our national story. We live in a country that has repeatedly placed faith in the possibility of reinvention and second chances. Whether one looks at moments of historic political change or deeply polarizing elections, it reflects a broader truth about the American people: many continue to believe in the capacity for change, forgiveness, and new beginnings. That belief in redemption, while powerful and reflective of our highest ideals, can also produce dangerous outcomes, and democracy requires us to wrestle honestly with both the promise and the risks of that reality.

For me, however, this moment is ultimately bigger than any one individual. At a time when voting rights and democratic institutions remain under strain across this country, particularly in ways that disproportionately impact BIPOC communities, Colorado must continue making clear that free, fair, and secure elections are foundational to public trust in our democracy.

We should be able to defend democratic institutions while also respecting constitutional processes. We should be able to disagree strongly without abandoning fairness or turning every constitutional disagreement into a call for political destruction. Democracy requires accountability, but it also requires restraint, consistency, and respect for the rule of law.

Media Contact:

Office of Representative Junie Joseph

720-432-6009

[email protected]

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