A recent survey conducted by Magellan Strategies reveals widespread skepticism among Colorado voters toward both major political parties and a pessimistic outlook on the economy. Of the 1,136 registered voters polled in late July and early August, nearly half (49 percent) identified as unaffiliated, while 26 percent were Democrats and 23 percent Republicans. Over 60 percent of respondents held unfavorable views of both the Democratic and Republican parties.
Criticism of the Democratic Party centered on perceptions of poor leadership, excessive government spending, and policy overreach. While some appreciated the party’s focus on reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ protections, and support for public services, others believed its agenda leaned too far left and neglected key concerns like crime and border security. A segment of voters described their support for Democrats as choosing the “lesser of two evils.”
Republican supporters praised tax reductions, limited government, and pro-business stances, but detractors cited extremism linked to the MAGA movement, corruption, and policies favoring the wealthy. Trump-related figures drew particular scrutiny, with nearly 60 percent disapproving of his presidential performance.
Economic sentiment remains weak: 43 percent rated the national economy as “poor,” compared to 26 percent who viewed it as “good” or “excellent.” About 60 percent expect economic conditions to deteriorate over the next year. Inflation and tariffs have caused financial stress for 67 percent of respondents, while only 8 percent said rising costs were not a concern.
State-level sentiment is slightly more optimistic. While 23 percent rated Colorado’s economy as “poor,” 30 percent considered it “excellent” or “good.” However, over half anticipate a decline in economic conditions in the coming year. Top concerns include high living costs, homelessness, crime, and inadequate infrastructure amid population growth.
Despite dissatisfaction with leadership—52 percent disapproved of Governor Jared Polis and congressional approval ratings remained below 40 percent—nearly half of respondents expressed support for the Taxpayers Bill of Rights (TABOR), citing fiscal discipline. Critics argue it restricts funding for essential public services.
If the gubernatorial election were held today, 50 percent would vote for the Democratic candidate, 38 percent for the Republican, and 12 percent remain undecided.
— news from Colorado Politics
— News Original —
Survey: Coloradans skeptical of party politics, economic outlook remains grim
Nearly 50% of voters in Colorado are unaffiliated with a political party, according to the latest data from the Secretary of State’s Office. n nA recent survey from the conservative-leaning polling group Magellan Strategies appears to confirm Coloradans’ overall distrust of both major political parties, with over 60% of respondents expressing an unfavorable opinion of both Democrats and Republicans. n nThe survey, which asked 1,136 registered Colorado voters several questions about state and federal issues, was conducted in late July and early August. About 49% of respondents identified as unaffiliated, while 26% identified as Democrats and 23% as Republicans. n nPoor leadership from the Dems, extremism from the GOP n nWhen 68% of respondents who said they had an unfavorable opinion of the Democratic Party were asked why, many cited poor leadership and a lack of direction in recent years, as well as the belief that Democratic policies often constituted government overreach and imposed too much spending. n nThe party’s advocacy for social issues, such as reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ issues, was cited as a reason why voters supported Democrats. Still, those who disapproved of the party expressed the belief that its agenda was “too extreme” and failed to address issues like crime and border security. n nOther voters who expressed support for Democrats said they approved of their support for the lower, middle, and working classes and their commitment to public services like health care, education, and the environment. Others still contended that while they didn’t necessarily approve of either party, they believed the Democrats were the “lesser of two evils.” n nRepublicans cited policies to lower taxes and reduce spending and government overreach as primary reasons why they support the right, as well as its traditional values, national pride, pro-business policies, and commitment to public safety. Those who said they disapprove of the Party cited Trump and the MAGA movement, as well as what they believed to be extreme policies on social issues and corruption and policies that solely benefit the wealthy. n nLow confidence that the economy will improve n nAccording to the survey, 43% of respondents gave the U.S. economy a “poor” rating versus 26% who said it was either “good” or “excellent.” Nearly 60% believed the economy would only get worse in the next year, while 35% predicted it would improve, and 7% said it would stay about the same. n nTariffs and inflation have led to 67% of respondents feeling financial stress, while 23% said their finances were not currently an issue but could be in the future if prices continue to rise. Only 8% of respondents said increasing costs were not a concern to them. n nA slightly higher proportion of respondents expressed confidence in Colorado’s economy, with the majority stating that it was “fair”. An additional 30% rated the state’s economy as either “excellent” or “good”, while 23% said it was “poor”. Just over half of respondents believed the state’s economy would worsen in the next year, while 9% thought it would improve and 31% said it would remain about the same. n nVoters unhappy with state, national leadership n nLocal governments seemed to be more popular among voters than state officials or members of Congress — 45% of respondents said they approved of their regional and county governments. In comparison, 52% said they disapproved of Gov. Jared Polis. State Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper received 38% and 37% approval ratings, respectively, and the state legislature received an approval rating of 39%. n nNearly 60% of all respondents said they disapprove of the job President Donald Trump has done, with his lowest approval category being health care at 31% and his highest being immigration and border security at 45%. n nThe majority of voters, just over 60%, said Trump has failed to adequately address the issues and problems most important to them, such as the cost of living and the economy. n nFeelings on the state’s direction are mixed n nHigh cost of living, homelessness, and crime are among the top reasons why 53% of Coloradans believe the state is headed in the wrong direction, according to the survey. n nThose respondents also cited poor political leadership, inadequate transportation and traffic congestion, as well as the belief that the state has not adequately responded to rapid population growth. n nWhile 7% of respondents said they were unsure which direction the state was headed, 40% said they believed Colorado was on the right track, citing the state’s thriving economy, diverse job opportunities, and commitment to protecting its natural beauty and open spaces. n nThose same respondents also said they believe the state’s leadership has been effective and supported the legislature’s “progressive and inclusive” policies. n nWhile the Gubernatorial election isn’t until next year, respondents were asked who they would vote for if it were held today: 50% said they would vote for the Democratic candidate. In comparison, 38% said the Republican candidate and 12% were unsure. n nDespite political differences, nearly half of all respondents said they have a favorable view of the Taxpayers Bill of Rights, or TABOR — one third, however, said they were unsure or had no opinion on the matter, more than the number of respondents who said they view the amendment unfavorably. n nRespondents who said they approve of TABOR said they like that it limits government spending and growth while promoting fiscal responsibility and government transparency. Critics argued the amendment restricts funding for public services, impedes government flexibility, and prioritizes tax cuts over community investment.