Reader: Will Trade Epstein Files for Tina Peters

Donald Trump says that the imprisoned former Mesa County clerk is "a brave and innocent Patriot who has been tortured by Crooked Colorado politicians.

By Westword Readers

August 24, 2025

Image: donald trump clapping by Colorado flag

President Donald Trump is no fan of Colorado. Brandon Marshall

Audio By Carbonatix

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First, President Donald Trump agreed with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, saying that "mail-in voting is corrupt." Then he took a shot at Colorado's mail-in voting system in a post on Truth Social, taking aim at Governor Jared Polis along with other unspecified Colorado politicians.

But the point of his post wasn't about election security — it was a demand to free a former county clerk convicted of compromising Colorado election data.

"FREE TINA PETERS," the August 21 post began, "a brave and innocent Patriot who has been tortured by Crooked Colorado politicians, including the big Mail-In Ballot supporting the governor of the State. Let Tina Peters out of jail, RIGHT NOW. She did nothing wrong, except catching the Democrats cheat in the Election. She is an old woman, and very sick. If she is not released, I am going to take harsh measures!!!"

But can he? In their comments on the Westword Facebook post of the news, readers offer their votes on the situation. Says Brian:

She was found guilty by a jury of her peers. Don’t do the crime if you can’t serve the time.

Adds Erica:

Will trade Epstein files for Tina Peters....Show me yours first.

Wonders Allan:

The files, Donny. Where are the files?

Notes Aaron:

She was convicted on a state charge. I don’t think he has the power to do much.

Responds Susie:

He can't pardon her but he's threatening to withhold federal funds from Colorado.

Concludes Tina:

Free Tina now.

What do you think of Trump's threat? Peters' conviction? Post a comment or share your thoughts at [email protected].

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