Colorado Governor-elect Phil Weiser has unveiled his initial cabinet appointments, moving toward a collaborative leadership style as he prepares to transition into the state’s top executive role.
The announcement, made on Tuesday, outlines a team tasked with managing major state agencies and advising the incoming administration.
Weiser, currently serving as the state’s District Attorney, is set to assume the governorship on January 12. He takes the reins from outgoing Gov. Jared Polis, who is leaving office after reaching his term limit of eight years.
In a statement regarding his selections, Weiser emphasized his goal of building a government that bridges political divides. “My administration will represent all of Colorado – and I’m proud to announce my latest appointees, which demonstrates my commitment to building a collaborative administration that’s inclusive of voices from across Colorado and the political spectrum,” Weiser said.
The transition plan highlights specific roles aimed at addressing the state’s diverse agricultural, environmental, and budgetary needs. Among the notable selections is State Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson, who has been named as the state’s Agriculture Commissioner. Simpson brings a background in ranching and farming to the role, where he will oversee food safety and the management of natural resources.
For the position of Director of Rural Advancement, Weiser has selected State Rep. Jeni Arndt. Having previously served as the mayor of Fort Collins and as chair of the House committee on agriculture, natural resources, and water policy, Arndt is tasked with focusing on the specific challenges facing rural communities across the state.
To address this, Scott Steinbrecher, the current Deputy Attorney General for Natural Resources and Environment, will serve as the Senior Director of Water Policy. Steinbrecher brings extensive experience in Colorado water law and has previously played a role in interstate compact negotiations.
The Governor’s Office of State Planning and Budgeting will be led by Dominick Moreno. Moreno’s resume includes legislative experience, having served on the state’s Joint Budget Committee, which he chaired twice. He is also a former Colorado Senate Majority Leader and most recently held the position of Deputy Chief of Staff for Denver Mayor Mike Johnston.
Weiser’s strategy for the transition centers on ensuring that diverse perspectives have a seat at the table from the beginning of his tenure. “As governor, I will ensure that Coloradans from all walks of life have a seat at the table – because that’s the only way we will be ready on day one to make state government work better and build a brighter future for all Coloradans,” Weiser added.
The incoming administration is currently finalizing its broader transition plan as the January 12 inauguration date approaches. Further details regarding the transition process can be found online via the official CBS News portal.
The appointment process serves as the foundational step for the new government, establishing the team that will implement the administration’s policy agenda.
