James Peabody contested the results in the Colorado General Assembly on the basis of fraud by Adams and the Democrats. On March 17, 1905, the General Assembly ruled in favor of Peabody and declared him to be the legitimate governor. However, Peabody's campaign had likely also engaged in voter fraud. Thus, to settle the issue, Peabody immediately resigned upon being declared governor. He was succeeded by Lieutenant Governor Jesse F. McDonald, who served the remainder of the term.
Source for Popular Vote data: Colorado Secretary of State. Abstract of Votes Cast for Governor at the General Election in 1904, Colorado Secretary of State (https://www.sos.state.co.us/pubs/elections/Results/Abstract/pdf/1900-1999/1904AbstractBook.pdf) (accessed 22 Sep 2023)