Democracy is alive and well at all levels of government. You need only turn on the television, pick up a newspaper or turn on the radio or your computer to be updated on the Republican presidential primary; the latest poll numbers for President Obama; analysis of the Congressional stalemate over the "issue de jour," or the status of legislation at the Colorado General Assembly.  

It is our system of electing and governing. And as messy and painful to watch as it can be at times, it remains a shining beacon across the world, one that citizens in countries across the globe are fighting against ruling regimes to embrace.

And yet, more and more frequently we find ourselves lamenting the fact that partisan behavior appears to be playing a bigger role in our political landscape than it has in the recent past. The following is an excerpt from a newsletter published by Boyle, Silver & Weist Policy Strategists, Inc., that highlights some of the reasons.

"In recent years, partisanship has become a much more important factor influencing legislation than historically was the case.  Partisanship, loyalty to party above all, has always played a role in the legislative process, but now it is the most important factor in many legislative debates.  Other traditional political coalition building influences, based on geography - rural vs. urban - or personal beliefs have diminished in significance compared to loyalty to party.  The number and range of issues that demand a caucus position which all of the members of a party are expected to observe has grown.  The election campaigns are not biennial events but a continuing influence on voting patterns.  Almost every aspect of the legislative process is affected by considerations of the effect on the party and the next election.   

There are several reasons for this lamentable trend.  Term limits have reduced the number of long serving legislators whose personal popularity renders them impervious to attack and free to vote as they wish, indifferent to the demands of the party.  Campaign finance reform has centralized control over campaign contributions and spending, making both candidates and incumbents more beholden to party leaders.  Other reforms have eliminated the ability of legislators to socialize and build personal relationships with members of the other party which encourages bipartisanship.  If the only time you encounter the opposition is in the well during a legislative debate, it is easier to demonize them, much harder to build friendships, understanding and, ultimately, coalitions that transcend party."   

With that as the backdrop, it seems unlikely that the growing trend of caucus positions and partisan behavior will go by the wayside anytime soon. And so, we must meet them where they are. Colorado Concern's focus must be on ensuring candidates for public office, and current elected officials, understand and embrace issues that are critical to the business community. That work is underway each day at the Capitol, and beyond as we prepare for the 2012 election cycle.

This week's legislative status sheet is available here.

If you have questions, concerns or feedback, please do not hesitate to contact me at 303.860-1201, or tamra@coloradoconcern.com.

Warm Regards,