A Message From the President: December 2022

    Colorado voters this mid-term election made clear that Colorado is now a “blue” state with Republicans losing all statewide elective races, and almost saw Congresswoman Lauren Boebert, who represents Colorado’s western slope and Pueblo, lose her seat. Please see Dianna Orf’s lobbyist report for more details. For CMA, we feel fortunate that House Democrats elected Representative Julie McCluskie (D-Dillon) as House Speaker. Speaker-elect McClusky is a thoughtful legislator who served on the Joint Budget Committee and earned the respect of Colorado’s business community as a careful listener. Speaker McClusky will be challenged to manage the expectations of an increasingly large Democratic caucus many of whom view themselves as “progressives.”

    Another challenge or opportunity for CMA and its members will be to work with several new Democratic legislators elected in western Colorado. In the State Senate, Senator Bob Rankin, a good friend of CMA who represented northwest Colorado until his Senate district was redrawn to represent central Colorado, resigned a few days ago. Northwest Colorado will now be represented by Senator-elect Dylan Roberts who represented parts of northwest Colorado for the last four years.

    CMA will be hosting its 2023 Legislative Reception on January 12 beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Brown Palace Hotel. This event provides CMA members an excellent opportunity to meet newly elected legislators as well as veteran legislators from both political parties. Please make sure to register to attend.

    Finally, CMA’s Government Affairs Committee begins meeting weekly Monday January 9 to review, prioritize and take positions on legislation affecting Colorado’s mining industry. The Committee from time-to-time visits with legislators as a part of our meetings. Please let me know if you have interest in participating in the committee.