Julie McCluskey elected speaker of Colorado House, defeating Rose Pugliese 41–22

Representative Julie McCluskey was elected speaker of the Colorado House of Representatives for the 75th General Assembly in a floor vote held on opening day. The clerk reported 41 votes for McCluskey and 22 votes for Representative Rose Pugliese; one member was excused and one seat vacant.

The contest followed nominations and three‑minute “well” speeches (limited by temporary rules not yet adopted). Majority Leader Monica Duran nominated McCluskey; Assistant Majority Leader Jennifer Bacon seconded the nomination. Representative Bottoms nominated Minority Leader Rose Pugliese; that nomination was seconded by Assistant Minority Leader Winter and several other members spoke in support of Pugliese.

In her remarks accepting the nomination, Speaker Julie McCluskey said she would protect the institution and “allow every single one of those voices to be heard.” McCluskey noted she sees the speaker’s role as representing the whole House and pledged not to censor members who come to the people’s house to testify.

In accepting the nomination from her caucus, Minority Leader Rose Pugliese emphasized civil discourse and said there was “no place for censorship in this house,” and she highlighted parental‑choice and public‑safety priorities in her remarks while campaigning at the well.

After the vote the clerk announced the result and McCluskey addressed the chamber, saying she was “deeply honored and grateful” and looked forward to “serving all of you, lifting up all of your voices in the days ahead.” The House then recessed briefly to continue organizational business.