Marine Vet and GOP Nominee Victor Marx Campaigns Against Rising Socialism

Republican gubernatorial candidate Victor Marx from Colorado, a Marine veteran, is gathering an all-Marine slate to challenge a growing democratic socialist influence in various political races nationwide. Marx claims that socialism has never been successful and equates it to communism, emphasizing the importance of recognizing it as such.

Marx emerged victorious in Colorado’s primary election held in June, running on a platform focused on public safety, social conservatism, and cost of living. His achievement coincided with a series of progressive and democratic socialist wins across the United States, notably in Colorado, where Melat Kiros, a democratic socialist, defeated long-serving Rep. Diana DeGette in the primaries. These results contribute to a broader trend of progressive victories nationally.

In response to this shift, Marx has aligned with retired Marine Col. George Markert as his running mate. Together, they form a ticket that Marx believes brings military discipline and resolve to the state government.

“There’s never been a successful socialism program, and I’ll say socialism, it’s just a transitionary word for communism. Let’s just say it for what it is,” said Marx in an interview with Fox News Digital.

Marx asserts that the leadership of Marines is known for its integrity and toughness, valued traits in a political landscape encountering challenges from the left. Markert, bringing over 30 years of experience in the Marine Corps, has occupied senior leadership roles at U.S. Central Command and served in various Marine Logistics Groups. He later transitioned into the private sector, managing infrastructure operations across North America.

Marx, who founded All Things Possible Ministries, positions himself and Markert as political outsiders equipped with the necessary discipline and accountability to confront socialism. He contrasts these qualities with those of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), describing them as organized, well-financed, and intent on reshaping the state with the eventual aim of abolishing the police.

The political division is especially pronounced in the context of public safety, as Colorado battles with crime rates significantly above national averages. In 2024, the state recorded around 476 violent crimes and 2,593 property crimes per 100,000 residents, surpassing the national rates by 28% and 41% respectively, according to the U.S. Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Statistics.

“They’re more focused on policing speech than protecting families. While residents are worried about crime, gang activity, state leaders are advancing this ideology with policies that threaten our free speech and punish people for the beliefs,” said Marx.

Marx criticized his opponent, Democratic Attorney General Phil Weiser, claiming that increased governmental expenditure has not led to improved conditions for citizens. Weiser has contested the Trump administration in court multiple times, including attempts to change immigration policy and restrict birthright citizenship.

According to Marx, government spending under Weiser hasn’t improved safety but has instead led to a softer stance on crime, leaving residents dissatisfied with current conditions. Marx argues that taxpayers are burdened with higher costs while receiving diminished services.

He believes the upcoming election represents a pivotal choice between his vision and that of the Democrats, ascribing the rise of socialism within the state to the Democratic Party.

Fox News Digital sought comment from Weiser regarding Marx’s assertions.