By Michael Fields
By the time 1994 rolled around, Republicans had been out of power in the U.S. House of Representatives for 40 years. And in politics, 40 years is an eternity. Therefore, it was no surprise that many people thought that Democrats would always have control of the House.
But then, in the middle of Bill Clinton’s first term as president, Republicans introduced their “Contract with America” and flipped 54 seats to gain the majority. Candidates across the country campaigned hard on a clear, consistent, and popular message. The American people knew exactly what they would be getting with Republicans in power, and Republicans had a clear mandate to guide their priorities.
Fast forward to present day Colorado, and even though Democrats have only had complete control of state government since 2018, there is already talk of a “permanent majority.”
Instead of waiting 40 years, Colorado Republicans need to develop a “Contract with Colorado” now. With redistricting coming before the next election, Republicans have an opportunity over the next two years to set a clear agenda and articulate it to voters.
We already have a roadmap for this Contract with Colorado. For years, ballot issues have been a bright spot for conservatives. More often than not, Coloradans agree with conservative policies, but then vote for Democratic candidates. Republicans need to understand this disconnect and adjust.
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