June 26, 2026

“ I have been integrally involved in the Democratic Party for 54 years. And I am no longer a Democrat.”

So starts the conversation with Pete Salas, a lifelong, active member of the party that, for years, has dominated Boulder County and recently has come to control much of the state.

In this unfiltered interview, Salas provides an inside look at party politics, describes the growing discontent that led him to finally leave the party, and shares his hopes for the future of a state and county where the majority of voters are unaffiliated.

Don’t forget to vote!

Colorado’s Primary Election is Tuesday, June 30.

• 24-hr ballot drop-off locations: bouldercounty.gov/elections/information/ballot-drop-boxes

Check out our Guide to BoCo Local Races (print + audio!) at boulderfrequency.com. Find an extended interview + links for info on state + federal races at Patreon.com/BoulderFrequencyPod.

Sources referenced in this episode:

• coloradosun.com/2025/12/15/colorado-unaffiliated-voters-poll-2025/
• en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rodolfo_Gonzales

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Produced by BVHz in partnership with The Mountain Ear

Independent, local journalism for Boulder County

Our team

Journalist + producer: Shay Castle

Audio producer + music: Kelly Garry

Additional support provided by Jeff Rozic and Tyler Hickman

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