A political earthquake rattled Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District as former President Trump dramatically withdrew his endorsement of Congressman Jeff Hurd. The stunning reversal came swiftly after Hurd publicly supported a recent Supreme Court decision challenging the administration’s tariff policies.
The announcement, delivered via a post on Truth Social, was a forceful rebuke. Trump accused Hurd of prioritizing foreign interests over the prosperity of the United States, framing his decision as a necessary step to “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!” The language was stark, painting Hurd as a betrayal to the core principles of the movement.
This isn’t a common occurrence; in fact, it’s only the second time Trump has ever rescinded an endorsement. He cited a previous instance involving Mo Brooks, a former Alabama Congressman who shifted his position on the 2020 election, ultimately losing his race after the endorsement was pulled.
Immediately, Trump threw his weight behind Hope Scheppelman, a U.S. Navy veteran and Critical Care Nurse Practitioner. He lauded her as a “Highly Respected Patriot” committed to “America First Policies” and unwavering in her dedication to national defense and economic strength.
Scheppelman’s platform, as outlined by the former President, centers on bolstering the economy through tax cuts and deregulation, championing American manufacturing, securing the border, and staunchly defending Second Amendment rights. The endorsement aims to position her as a direct contrast to Hurd’s perceived weaknesses.
Hurd’s opposition to tariffs has been consistent and well-documented. He has repeatedly voted with a small contingent of Republicans to challenge the administration’s trade policies, a stance that clearly drew the ire of the former President. This divergence in policy proved to be a breaking point.
The fallout extends beyond trade. Hurd also faced criticism for being one of four Republicans who opposed censuring Representative Ilhan Omar following controversial remarks. This vote further fueled perceptions of him as being out of step with the party’s conservative base.
The move signals a clear escalation in Trump’s willingness to actively intervene in primary races, punishing those who deviate from his agenda and rewarding those who align with his vision. Colorado’s 3rd District is now poised to become a key battleground in the ongoing struggle for the future of the Republican party.
Scheppelman, now armed with the former President’s full endorsement, is expected to aggressively challenge Hurd, framing the race as a referendum on loyalty and commitment to the “America First” agenda. The coming months will undoubtedly be filled with intense campaigning and heightened political drama.