DENVER, COLO. — Weds., May 20, 2026 — Democratic candidate for Attorney General Michael Dougherty will participate tonight in another candidate forum, while Secretary of State Jena Griswold will again be absent. 

Tonight marks the eighth consecutive candidate forum or debate Griswold has declined to attend.

“Coloradans deserve candidates who are willing to show up, answer questions, and engage directly with voters,” said Dougherty. “I respect that schedules can sometimes conflict, but after eight consecutive skipped forums, this is clearly a pattern. At these forums, community members ask the key questions for the next Attorney General – one’s experience as a lawyer, a proven track record of leading teams of lawyers, and a vision for the future of Colorado. Being the People’s Lawyer requires showing up for all the people of Colorado.”   

Dougherty said candidate forums are an important opportunity for voters to hear directly from candidates about their vision for the Attorney General’s Office, public safety, consumer protection, civil rights, abortion access, and defending Colorado against attacks from the Trump administration. He also noted that forums routinely include questions about courtroom experience, managing teams of lawyers, public safety, consumer protection, and defending Colorado against attacks from the Trump administration.

“I will continue showing up, taking questions, and having honest conversations with voters across Colorado,” Dougherty said. “The Attorney General’s job requires accountability and accessibility, and campaigns should reflect those same values.”

Dougherty has participated in forums and candidate events across Colorado throughout the campaign and said he remains committed to debating and engaging voters whenever invited.