Governor Polis Selects Two Colorado Students to Be “Governor for a Day”

DENVER - Today, Governor Polis announced the winners of the "Governor for a Day" contest, which drew videos from seventh and eighth graders across the state.

"I was so blown away watching the inspirational videos that young Coloradans made about our state and why they want to be Governor for a Day, that I couldn't possibly choose just one, so I chose a girl and a boy as winners. Each will trade their school desks for the Governor's Office, joining me as Governor for a Day at the State Capitol and getting a firsthand look at how state government delivers real results for Coloradans," said Governor Polis.

Governor Polis is proud to announce the 2026 Governors for a Day are Angelique Tolbert and Weston Hancock.

• Angelique is an eighth grader from Sky Vista Middle School in Aurora.Angelique stood out for her creative video and unique perspective on what it means to be a leader. In Angelique's submission video, she called out qualities that she would bring to the table as Governor for a Day and how she would serve Colorado with a community-minded focus. At school, Angelique is involved in student council, drama club, a selective leadership class and National Junior Honor Society.
• Weston is an eighth grader from Ridgeline Middle School in Windsor. He stood out for his passion and knowledge of Colorado. In Weston's submission video, he talked about Colorado's unique outdoor landscape including the state's national and state parks. Weston also mentioned his interest in Colorado history and state government and how he can recite most of the state's history from memory. At school, Weston participates in Mock Congress as well as speech and debate competitions.

"With over 150 submissions, choosing just two wasn't easy. Angelique and Weston showed excitement, understanding of state government, creativity, and a drive to do good for the state of Colorado. While Angelique and Weston stood out, every single applicant made me hopeful and showed that Colorado's future is in good hands, so much so that I'm calling four other inspiring students as runners-up and offering to visit their schools. Coloradans of all ages have big ideas about how to make our state stronger, and I'm excited to share what it's like being the Governor of the best state to live, work, and play," said Governor Polis.

Each student will serve as "Governor for a Day" on a separate day. The dates of the Tolbert Administration and the Hancock Administration will be announced soon, likely in October. Submissions showcased everything from sharp creative videos to a genuine grasp of state government and the complex issues Colorado faces.

While only two students can hold the title of "Governor for a Day," Governor Polis was extremely impressed with all the students who submitted videos for the contest. The Governor will personally call the four runners-up and offer to visit their schools. The Governor encourages all Colorado students to stay engaged in civic life and help shape Colorado's future.

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