"This will forever be remembered as the day the American people regained control of their country." - Donald J Trump | |
Denver Republican Party Newsletter
2024 Election Results
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A Country Turning Red
While Colorado didn’t immediately reflect this red wave that swept the country on election night, the state’s final results revealed a promising future for Republicans in the Centennial State. The GOP has proven that the red wave isn’t skipping Colorado—it’s just taking root more gradually.
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The Red Wave: Turning Tide for the GOP | |
A Nation Turns Red - And Colorado Begins to Follow
The 2024 election was a defining moment for the Republican Party. Across the nation, the GOP surged to historic victories, taking the House and Senate by storm and securing a landslide win for Donald Trump in the presidential race. The message from voters was resounding: Americans are ready for a return to conservative values, stability, and strong leadership.
While Colorado didn’t immediately reflect this red wave on election night, the state’s final results revealed a promising future for Republicans. Despite early predictions of Democratic dominance, key victories and significant gains in traditionally blue areas signal that Colorado is far from lost. This election may mark the beginning of a Republican resurgence in the Centennial State.
The Battle Begins: Resilience in Colorado’s Results
On election night, the headlines painted Colorado as an outlier in the national red wave. Kamala Harris carried the state with 54.6% of the vote, and Democrats appeared poised to hold onto their stronghold. But as vote counts trickled in throughout the week, the narrative shifted. Late tallies from suburban and rural districts revealed a different story—Republican momentum and Democratic confusion.
Major Republican Gains:
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At the Colorado State Capitol, Democrats lost their supermajority in the State House as they lost three seats in the House of Representatives.
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Key suburban districts, long considered Democratic territory, saw Republicans not only narrow margins but claim victories.
One of the most notable wins came in Congressional District 8, just north of Denver and extending into Weld County. Gabe Evans, a 38-year-old Republican, unseated Democratic incumbent Yadira Caraveo after a grueling and expensive campaign. Evans’ victory was powered by an army of energized young volunteers who canvassed relentlessly post-election to ensure every Republican ballot was counted. This grassroots effort highlights the growing enthusiasm and organizational strength of Colorado’s Republican Party.
A Shift Among Unaffiliated Voters
Colorado’s sizeable unaffiliated voter base has long been a key battleground, and this election cycle marked a key voting demographic. Republicans made significant inroads with these voters by addressing issues that resonate deeply across the state:
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Economic Challenges: Rising inflation and frustration with democratic fiscal policies drove many unaffiliated voters to the GOP.
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Public Safety: Crime and concerns about Venezuelan gangs galvanized support for Republican candidates.
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Education Reform: Focusing on parental rights and school choice struck a chord with suburban families.
These issues helped Republicans close the gap in suburban districts and bolster their margins in rural areas, creating a foundation for future growth.
Even Denver Shows Promise
Denver, a traditional Democratic stronghold, saw surprising gains for Republicans. While the city remains blue overall, GOP candidates made measurable progress:
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In Denver’s nine state representative races, Republican candidates improved their vote shares compared to 2022.
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Valdamar Archuleta, the Republican challenger in Colorado’s 1st Congressional District, garnered 22% more votes than his predecessor in 2022, narrowing the gap against long-time Democratic incumbent Diana DeGette.
These results demonstrate that even in the heart of Denver, Republican messaging on crime, taxes, and education is beginning to resonate.
A Blueprint for the Future
The GOP’s progress in Colorado this election wasn’t just a fluke—it was the result of strategic investments in local campaigns, a focus on issues that matter to Coloradans, and a growing base of energized volunteers. These gains serve as a blueprint for building on the momentum in 2026 and beyond:
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Grassroots Organization: The success of ballot-curing and volunteer-driven campaigns, like Gabe Evans’, highlights the importance of local engagement.
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Targeting Suburban Voters: Continued outreach in suburban districts can capitalize on shifting voter sentiments.
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Expanding Urban Gains: While Denver remains a challenge, the GOP’s progress this year shows that the right message and candidates can yield results.
Turning Ripples into Waves
What began as a seemingly typical Democratic election victory in Colorado has transformed into a story of Republican resilience and resurgence. From flipping key seats in the state legislature to narrowing margins in Democratic strongholds, the GOP has proven that the red wave isn’t skipping Colorado—it’s just taking root more gradually.
For Colorado Republicans, the 2024 election is more than a win; it’s a call to action. Building on this year’s successes, the GOP is poised to transform Colorado’s political landscape and reclaim the state’s conservative legacy. The future is bright, and the time to act is now.
Together, we can turn these ripples into a lasting wave of Republican leadership.
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Denver Ballot Initiatives | |
Mixed Results on 2024 Ballot Measures
Denver voters sent a mixed message on ballot initiatives in the 2024 election. While several proposals from Mayor Mike Johnston and the city council passed, the rejection of some measures shows growing discontent with the city's leadership. Voters pushed back on initiatives like the fur ban, slaughterhouse restrictions, and one of the two proposed sales tax increases; it became clear that a segment of Denver voters were questioning the mayor's and city council's priorities and direction. This election marks a potential turning point; as voters seem increasingly unwilling to rubber-stamp progressive policies, they view as overreaching or misaligned with their concerns.
Denver 308 - Fur Ban Initiative: FAILED
Denver's proposed ban of fur products was met with a firm 'no.' Critics argued that such a ban would infringe upon individual rights and potentially hurt local businesses, including those tied to the Denver Stock Show—a huge economic event for the city. Additionally, concerns were raised about the impact on Indigenous communities, where fur products play a significant role in traditional practices. The failure of this measure underscores a voter sentiment that favors personal choice over progressive ideals about lifestyle and individual decisions.
Denver 309 - Slaughterhouse Ban: FAILED
Similarly, the proposed slaughterhouse ban within Denver city limits was overwhelmingly rejected. Denver's only slaughterhouse, Superior Farms, became a focal point of this debate. Proponents of the ban cited animal welfare and environmental concerns, but opponents, including many in the agricultural community, viewed the measure as an attack on local jobs and the right to produce and consume meat. Denver voters prioritized economic stability and the preservation of industries that have long been part of the city's fabric over policies driven by animal rights activism.
Denver 2R - Sales Tax Increase for Affordable Housing: FAILED
Amidst rising living costs and a housing crisis, a 0.5% sales tax increase was put forward to fund 'affordable housing' projects. However, it failed to garner the necessary votes as many Denverites were worried about how the money would be spent. Critics of the tax hike argued that Denver's affordability issues cannot be solved by simply taxing residents more. This failure indicated a voter backlash against what many perceive as a continuous cycle of tax increases without clear, tangible benefits.
State Proposition 131 - Ranked-Choice Voting: FAILED
Proposition 131, which would introduce jungle primaries and ranked-choice voting (RCV) for certain elections in Colorado in 2028, was rejected by Colorado voters. Despite $15 million in funding pouring in to support the initiative—backed by prominent figures like Denver Mayor Johnston and Governor Polis—the measure failed to gain traction. While proponents argued that RCV would ensure fairer representation, critics countered that it could complicate the voting process and risk disenfranchising voters. After completing one of the longest ballots in Colorado history, voters were not in the mood to make elections even more complex.
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Democrats Resist the Red Wave | |
Colorado Democrats Fight the Changing Tide: A Republican Call to Action
As America shifts decisively rightward, Colorado Democrats are positioning to block the momentum of Republican gains. Comments from Democratic leaders, including State House Speaker Julie McCluskie and Governor Jared Polis, reveal a resistance to the Republican resurgence that threatens to disrupt their longstanding dominance. For Colorado Republicans, this is both a challenge and an opportunity to push forward the values the rest of the country is returning to.
McCluskie's Defiance: Downplaying Republican Gains
Despite losing their supermajority in the Colorado House of Representatives, House Speaker Julie McCluskie stated the election results reaffirm Democratic control. She dismissed the GOP victories, claiming they lack voter support, and vowed to "Stop the priorities of the MAGA GOP dead in their tracks." Her statement paints a picture of a Democratic leadership unwilling to acknowledge voter dissatisfaction with progressive overreach.
McCluskie underscores a broader Democratic strategy: minimize Republican gains and double down on progressive policies. While Democrats still hold a majority in the State House, their diminished power in the legislature represents an opening for Republicans to bring forward solutions focused on the economy, public safety, and restoring individual freedoms—issues that resonate deeply with Coloradans across the political spectrum.
Governor Polis: Building a Firewall Against Change
Governor Jared Polis has taken a national approach, co-chairing the newly formed "Governors Safeguarding Democracy" initiative alongside Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. While branded as a "nonpartisan" effort, this coalition clearly aims to hinder the incoming Trump administration. Polis's rhetoric reveals a focus on protecting Democratic institutions against perceived threats, framing Republicans as extremists.
Locally, Polis's alignment with national Democratic efforts raises questions about his priorities for Colorado. While he speaks of protecting democracy, his continued focus on defending progressive policies over addressing rising costs, crime, and public dissatisfaction reflects a disconnect from the needs of everyday Coloradans. His statements leave little room for bipartisan collaboration.
The Republican Opportunity: Building on Momentum
For Colorado Republicans, the shifting landscape is a chance to challenge the Democratic stronghold. The GOP's ability to flip three House seats—including razor-thin victories by Rebecca Keltie in Colorado Springs and Dan Woog in Frederick—highlights a growing appetite for change, even in previously blue districts.
The Republican gains come as more progressive candidates replace moderate Democrats in the Colorado State House, setting the stage for legislation that could further alienate moderate voters. As Democrats shift further leftward, Republicans have a golden opportunity to position themselves as the party of balance and common-sense solutions.
A Call to Action for Denver Republicans
McCluskie's dismissive tone and Polis's defensive posturing show that Democrats are unwilling to adapt to the changing political tide. This resistance should energize Colorado Republicans to focus on grassroots efforts, engage with young and unaffiliated voters, and present clear, actionable plans for Colorado's future.
As the state moves away from the one-party dominance of the past decade, Republicans have the chance to lead the charge. By addressing the issues voters care about—affordable living, public safety, and government accountability—the GOP can continue its upward trajectory and bring Colorado closer to reflecting the national shift toward conservative values.
The fight is just beginning. Now is the time to act, organize, and deliver on the promise of a better Colorado for ALL.
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GOP Candidates For Our Future | |
Valdamar Archuleta
Valdamar Archuleta, born and raised in Denver, stepped into the political arena to represent Colorado's First Congressional District. He received 21% more votes this year than his Republican predecessor did in 2022, running against Dianna DeGette.
Valdamar isn't your typical politician. He doesn't come from wealth or political dynasties; instead, he embodies the spirit of the working class in Denver.
He desires not just to participate in politics but to transform it, ensuring that Denver's families experience tangible improvements in safety, representation, and quality of life.
Keep an eye on Valdamar Archuleta; he's poised to make waves in the next election cycle for Denver Republicans.
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Mickey Neal
Mickey Neal, a 30-year-old physical therapist, ran for State Representative in House District 3 to bring power back to the people. She received 34% more votes in her State House District than the previous Republican candidate in 2022.
A non-career politician, Mickey is focused on addressing the issues that matter most to Coloradans: the rising cost of living, unaffordable housing, grocery prices, homelessness, and crime. In times of fear and uncertainty, Mickey offers hope, striving to create safer, more affordable communities.
With over 7,500 doors knocked on during her 2024 campaign and countless conversations with neighbors, Mickey is committed to being an authentic voice for the concerns of Denver Republicans in the future.
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DC vs. Denver: Immigration Showdown
Donald Trump's new border czar, Tom Homan, warns of legal consequences as Denver's mayor pledges to resist mass deportations
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Tensions Rises In Denver Over Immigration Debate
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has vowed that the city will stand firm against mass deportations under federal enforcement, likening the resistance to a “Tiananmen Square moment.”
"More than us having DPD stationed at the county line to keep them out, you would have 50,000 Denverites there. It's like the Tiananmen Square moment with the rose and the gun... You'd have every one of those Highland moms who came out for the migrants. And you do not want to mess with them." - Denver Mayor Mike Johnston.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump’s incoming border czar, Tom Homan, has issued a stern warning to sanctuary cities, cautioning against defying ICE agents and suggesting that those obstructing deportations could face charges under federal harboring laws. The stage is set for a high-stakes clash between local and federal authorities, with Denver at the center of the immigration debate.
Denver's Homeless Policies Spark Debate over Safety
Denver’s crackdown on street camping under Mayor Mike Johnston’s “All In Mile High” homelessness initiative has drawn criticism from both residents and homeless advocates. While the mayor touts moving 2,000 people into temporary housing as a success, stricter enforcement and the displacement of encampments are leading to increased unrest and violence in other parts of the city.
Governor Proposes Cuts Amid $1 Billion Budget Gap
Governor Jared Polis has unveiled a budget proposal to tackle Colorado’s $1 billion shortfall, emphasizing cuts and delays in key areas while attempting to preserve essential services like K-12 education and public safety. As Democrats struggle to navigate the fiscal fallout from progressive policies, Republicans see a critical opportunity to champion budgetary responsibility and advocate for long-term solutions to stabilize Colorado’s economy.
State Senator Chris Hansen's Resignation Exposes Flaws in Colorado's Democracy
Chris Hansen’s resignation as Colorado State Senator just a week after his landslide reelection is a blow to democracy. His decision to leave for a CEO position means voters in his district won’t have a say in their representation, as a vacancy committee will appoint his successor. This process, dominated by Democrat insiders, undermines the voice of constituents and raises questions about accountability in our political system. All voters should be concerned about ensuring fair representation and demand reforms to make the process more democratic.
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*NOTICE*
Please be advised All District Meetings, First Friday Breakfast, and Meet and Greets Are Cancelled Until 2025
Enjoy the Holidays
Please check our calendar page for all events.
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Meet Michael Dimanna - Denver GOP Vice Chair
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Vice Chair for Denver GOP
Michael DiManna is the 3rd Vice Chair for the Denver County Republicans and was the Republican nominee for Colorado's House District 2. He owns the first minority-owned law firm in Denver and is a respected community and business leader in Colorado.
Learn more about Michael DiManna and his political campaign against Steven Woodrow at DiManna for CO HD 2.
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This publication is a periodic newsletter produced by the Denver County Republican Party. It includes announcements of events for independent groups and initiatives not necessarily affiliated with the Republican Party as a whole or the county party. Inclusion is for information only and does not imply an endorsement. | | | | |