The trajectory constructed over the last seven years is troubling
By Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson
Colorado has historically valued independence, controlled spending, and respect for limits on government. As Senate Minority Leader, let me be clear: our state is drifting from these principles, and the consequences are growing. As Colorado celebrates its 150th Anniversary of Statehood in 2026, we reflect on the journey that our state has taken over the decades, especially with this year being the eighth straight year under one-party control. Our economic value for the future should not be shaped by what we have done, but by what we are about to accomplish today.
In 2021, non-partisan staff warned the General Assembly of an impending budgetary structural deficit. This was not political talk, but straightforward financial analysis. The same caution resurfaced in 2025 and was confirmed in 2026. Instead of fixing the problem, the majority party kept increasing spending faster than we could support. Structural deficits are not just ideas; they mean future cuts, higher fees, or efforts to weaken taxpayer protections.