The Colorado State Legislature wrapped up its 2026 session recently. 

It was an especially tough budget year for state. The passage of the so-called Big Beautiful Bill continues to have devastating effects on Colorado's budget, and legislators faced tough choices. 

Despite that challenge, legislators were able to pass several bills that focused on progressive priorities. Among the bills passed were measures to improve access to affordable housing, lower energy costs, and increase access to health care. 

You can see a summary of the Legislature's accomplishments here. 

Voting opened on April 20 for the LaPlata Electric Association board. We encourage everyone who is eligible to vote in this election to study up and make your voice heard. 

You can find candidate statements on the LPEA website. That same link will give you the info you need to cast your vote -- either online or in person. 

Our fellow Democrats over in LaPlata organized a candidate debate. You can watch it online here. 

The second in a series of community conversations -- focused on school facilities --took place May 21 at the PLPOA Clubhouse. 

Rick Holt, superintendent of Archuleta County Schools, presented information about the district's proposal to replace the current elementary and middle schools with a combined campus to be built near Veterans Park. The current middle school faces significant maintenance problems because of its age. Many current elementary classrooms lack natural light. 

The district had applied for a grant from the state, which would cover part of the cost. However, Archuleta County's project was not selected for funding in this cycle. 

The school board now must decide whether to put a bond issue on the ballot in November -- possibly a conditional bond that would go into effect only if the district wins funds in the next round of the state grant program. Archuleta County voters rejected the last two school bond issues. 

The next community conversation will focus on the finances of Pagosa Springs Medical Center. Rhonda Webb, CEO and chief medical officer, will discuss the hospital's funding in light of federal budget cuts as well as possible solutions. That meeting is also at the PLPOA Clubhouse, 230 Port Ave., and will take place June 1 at 5:30 p.m.

The conversation series kicked off on May 13 with a panel discussion featuring Holt, Webb, and County Manager Longinos Gonzalez. If you missed that meeting, you can watch a recording of it here. 

The Colorado Democratic Party concluded its State Assembly today in Pueblo, where delegates determined which candidates will advance to the primary ballot. More than 1,600 delegates, including three from Archuleta County, along with candidates and activists gathered in Pueblo. This year's caucus and assembly process nearly doubled past participation and drew a significantly younger and more representative group of delegates. 

“Colorado Democrats showed up in a big way,” said Colorado Democratic Party Chair Shad Murib. “We’re seeing more energy, more participation and a new generation stepping up to lead. From Pueblo to every corner of the state, Democrats are united and ready to win in November.”

Above you'll find the unofficial results from the 2026 State Assembly. Candidates who received 30% or more of the vote have earned access to the Democratic Primary Ballot. The Party platform was also adopted.