This page is part of an undergraduate assignment at Davidson College
Colorado: Important Political Issues
Normally, Colorado has been characterized as a true “western” state, complete with vast open land, an agriculturally predominant economy and a traditionally Republican voting record. Important political issues are in accordance with these features, and U.S. Senate candidates Ken Salazar (D) and Pete Coors (R) have both highlighted these issues in their campaigns.
To begin to understand relevant political issues in Colorado, one can look at the state itself; 100,000 square miles in size (“Colorado QuickFacts”) and 40 state parks that attract 11 million visitors a year (“About Us”) guarantee that Colorado’s environmental matters, and particularly water protection rights, will be on a politician or candidate’s agenda. Additionally, immigration is highly relevant. The 2000 Census reported that 17.1% of Coloradoans are of Hispanic origin, well above the national average (“Colorado QuickFacts”).
Gun control and Second Amendment rights have become a more controversial topic in Colorado in the past five years. Traditionally Colorado and its large population of hunters and sportsmen have proven to be in support of the Second Amendment, but following the Columbine school shootings a new resurgence of highly vocal pro gun control groups and individuals has emerged.
As a moderate Democrat, Salazar agrees with several stances taken by his Republican counterpart and both have chosen to campaign on the aforementioned issues as well as prominent national issues such as national security. Salazar and Coors have both come out strongly in support of the environment, with Coors highlighting his role in conservation organizations (“Candidate…Coors”) and Salazar maintaining he, as Colorado Attorney General, has helped the environment (“Candidate…Salazar”). Both men, however, have come under scrutiny from outside groups, one saying Coors owns part of an environmentally harmful mining company, while Salazar is criticized for his handling of a cyanide spill at the Summitville mine in Colorado (“The…Avenger?”).
Both candidates have said they advocate Second Amendment rights, but Coors has said he would support repealing many laws already in place, including the Brady Bill (“Which…Issue”). He has drawn heavy criticism from the bill’s namesake and support from the NRA, for whom he used to be a spokesman (Florio).
Though state issues are obviously critical in any Senate race, this particular race has many influences on the federal level as well and national trends could prove critical. Coors, who already enjoys national recognition thanks to his brewery advertisements, is being supported heavily by his party who would like two Republicans to represent Colorado in the Senate. Salazar, on the other hand, who has in the past been criticized as too moderate (“Which…Issue”), could help the Democrats’ position in the Senate while appealing to more moderate Republicans.
Created by Carolyn Gilmor (cagilmor@davidson.edu) for POL 318 at Davidson College
Created: 9/09/04. Updated: 9/09/04