
The Blueprint
Rob Witwer
What's inside?
Explore the strategic moves that led to the Democrats' victory in Colorado and understand why this should be a matter of concern for Republicans across the nation.
You'll learn
Key points
01The Political Landscape: Setting the Stage
In the early 2000s, Colorado was a bastion of Republican power. The GOP held sway over the governorship, both U.S. Senate seats, five of seven U.S. House seats, and majorities in both the state House and Senate. The political landscape was painted in broad strokes of fiscal and social conservatism, with influential figures like Governor Bill Owens, Senator Wayne Allard, and Congressman Tom Tancredo leading the charge. The Taxpayer's Bill of Rights (TABOR) was a testament to this, limiting the growth of state spending and reflecting the state's conservative fiscal stance. Social conservatism also held a significant place in the political discourse, with issues such as abortion and gay rights often taking center stage in political debates. This was the political climate that defined Colorado at the time, a stronghold of conservative values and Republican power. However, beneath this seemingly solid Republican edifice, the tectonic plates of demographics were shifting. Colorado's population was growing rapidly, fueled by an influx of young, educated professionals and a burgeoning Hispanic population. These groups leaned Democratic in their political inclinations, but the Democratic party had yet to tap into this latent potential. The turning point came when the Democrats adopted a strategy that combined grassroots organizing, strategic messaging, and targeted fundraising. This strategy was led by four wealthy progressives, known as the "Gang of Four": Jared Polis, Rutt Bridges, Tim Gill, and Pat Stryker. Their concerted efforts, along with those of other Democratic leaders, would eventually lead to a seismic shift in Colorado's political landscape. The first tremors of this shift were felt in the 2004 election when Democrats wrested control of the state House and Senate from the Republicans for the first time in 30 years. This was followed by the 2006 election, which saw Democrat Bill Ritter ascend to the governorship. The final blow came in the 2008 election when Democrats claimed both U.S. Senate seats. These victories were not merely the result of changing demographics. They were also a testament to the Democrats' successful strategy of appealing to moderate voters and focusing on key issues such as education and healthcare. The Democrats had managed to tap into the changing demographic trends and align their messaging with the concerns of the emerging majority. In conclusion, the transformation of Colorado's political landscape was a result of a confluence of demographic changes and strategic political maneuvering. The Democrats' ability to recognize and capitalize on these changes set the stage for their eventual takeover of the state's political landscape. This case study serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of politics and the importance of strategic planning and adaptability in achieving political success.
02The Strategy: Laying the Groundwork
The political landscape of Colorado underwent a significant transformation, a shift that was not a mere coincidence but the result of a meticulously planned and executed strategy by the Democrats. The Democrats' victory in Colorado was a testament to their understanding of the electorate's pulse and their ability to adapt their campaign strategies accordingly. The Democrats' strategy was rooted in identifying key issues that resonated with the voters. They understood that healthcare, education, and environmental protection were not just political talking points, but real concerns for the people of Colorado. By focusing on these issues, they were able to connect with voters on a deeper level, demonstrating their commitment to addressing their concerns. The successful push to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act was a prime example of this strategy in action, resonating with many voters concerned about healthcare. Demographics played a significant role in the Democrats' strategy. They recognized the potential of young voters, women, and minorities to sway the election and tailored their outreach efforts to these groups. A major advertising campaign targeting young voters, featuring popular local musicians and celebrities, exemplified this approach. This strategy not only helped them connect with these demographics but also energized a new generation of voters, potentially securing their support for future elections. The Democrats' strategy was not just about understanding the electorate but also about using this understanding effectively. They utilized sophisticated data analytics to understand voter behavior, preferences, and trends. This data-driven approach allowed them to tailor their messaging and outreach efforts to specific groups, maximizing their impact. For instance, they used data to identify neighborhoods with high concentrations of undecided voters and then focused their canvassing efforts there. Funding was another crucial aspect of the Democrats' strategy. They secured substantial financial backing from wealthy donors and liberal advocacy groups, which allowed them to invest in advanced campaign technologies, hire experienced staff, and run extensive advertising campaigns. They also leveraged online fundraising platforms to tap into a broader base of small-dollar donors, demonstrating their ability to adapt to the digital age. Grassroots organizing was a key component of the Democrats' strategy. They mobilized a large network of volunteers to knock on doors, make phone calls, and engage with voters on social media. They also organized town hall meetings, community events, and voter registration drives to connect with voters on a personal level. A series of town hall meetings on climate change, drawing large crowds of environmentally conscious voters, exemplified this approach. In conclusion, the Democrats' victory in Colorado was not a fluke but the result of a well-planned and executed strategy. Their approach, which combined understanding the electorate, utilizing data analytics, securing funding, and grassroots organizing, offers valuable lessons for political campaigns everywhere. It underscores the importance of connecting with voters on a deeper level, understanding their concerns, and adapting campaign strategies accordingly.

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03The Execution: Turning the Tide
04The Aftermath: Assessing the Damage
05The Legacy: Lessons Learned
06The Future: Looking Ahead
07Conclusion
About Rob Witwer
Rob Witwer is an American author and former Republican member of the Colorado House of Representatives. He is known for his political commentary and analysis, particularly in his book "The Blueprint: How the Democrats Won Colorado."