Colorado House Minority Whip Ryan Armagost Resigns to Advocate for Gun Rights

State Rep. Ryan Armagost, R-Berthoud, announced Monday that he will resign from the Colorado House of Representatives on September 1 to take on a national role advocating for Second Amendment rights.

Armagost, who serves as House Minority Whip, shared on X that he will join the board of a national gun rights organization and relocate his firearms training business to Arizona. “As difficult as this decision is, it comes at a time when I must prioritize my life, health and happiness,” he said. “I’ve been offered a fantastic professional opportunity in Arizona, and I’ve also met someone very special there.”

See also  Ex-PCSO Sergeant Accused of Stealing Over $17K in Union Dues

His resignation comes after a legislative session he described as one of the most difficult of his career, citing what he called a “flood of extreme legislation” targeting gun ownership. The Democrat-led General Assembly passed multiple new gun control laws this year, which were signed by Governor Jared Polis.

In April, Armagost and other Republican lawmakers joined sheriffs and Second Amendment groups in urging U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate the constitutionality of Colorado’s gun laws. The most controversial measure bans the sale, purchase, or manufacture of semi-automatic rifles and shotguns with detachable magazines—unless buyers complete a firearm safety course and obtain a special eligibility card from local law enforcement.

See also  Driver Faces DUI Charge After Crashing Into State Trooper and CDOT Worker

“I deeply regret leaving this fight behind after my 47 years residing in Colorado,” Armagost said. “But I know it will continue with the many strong leaders still in place.”

Fellow Republican Rep. Brandi Bradley of Douglas County thanked Armagost for his service and announced her candidacy to succeed him as minority whip.

Armagost’s seat in House District 64, which includes Mead, Milliken, Johnstown, and parts of Greeley, will be filled by a Republican vacancy committee. The appointee will serve until the next general or special election.

See also  Colorado Races to Boost Security at High-Risk Sites After Boulder Attack

During his time in office, Armagost co-sponsored legislation on a range of issues, including protections for victims of economic abuse, reforms to the Office of the Child Protection Ombudsman, and tax donation options supporting animal welfare.

“Serving the people of House District 64 has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Armagost said.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *