Watch CBS News

6 Of 11 Colorado Counties Vote 'No' On 51st State

51st State
(credit: CBS)

GREELEY, Colo. (AP) - Eleven rural Colorado counties delivered a divided vote on an effort to form a 51st state called North Colorado.

51st State Vote
A voter casts their ballot in Weld County on Tuesday.(credit: CBS)

Six counties voted against the idea -- including Weld County, whose commissioners spearheaded the effort. They cited popular frustration with the Democrat-led state government that they claim neglects rural interests.

Unofficial returns from Tuesday's election suggested Elbert, Lincoln, Logan, Sedgwick and Moffat counties also voted against secession. Voting "Yes" were Cheyenne, Kit Carson, Phillips, Washington and Yuma counties.

Colorado's Legislature and the U.S. Congress ultimately would have to approve any new state -- something considered highly unlikely. But the movement's leaders claimed victory in attracting attention to their complaints.

(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.