Conservatives Cannot Afford to Sleep on this Election

By Michael J Badagliacco, “MJB” | Guest Commentary, Rocky Mountain Voice

The Urgency of Off-Year Elections

In terms of elections, “off-year” election years tend to sit on the back burner in the mind of most people, but especially in the minds of conservatives. Not only do they tend to vote later in the cycle, they also tend to simply sit out. I know we hear it every election, but this cycle is probably one of the most important we will see in quite some time here in Colorado due to some specific measures that will define what we allow the legislature to get away with on a state level as well as what we allow out-of-state money to get away with on the local level. With ballots already mailed out and Election Day on November 4, 2025, now is the time for conservatives to step up and protect our values. This election features statewide propositions that challenge fiscal responsibility, numerous school board races that could shift education policy, and local battles like recalls and bond issues that demand attention. Ignoring it could hand control to far-left agendas funded by external influences. Conservatives have historically lower turnout in these cycles, allowing opponents to push through changes that erode traditional values. This year, with economic pressures and cultural shifts at stake, apathy is not an option. Mobilizing now ensures our voices shape the future, from classrooms to county commissions.

Statewide Measures: Defending TABOR Against LL and MM

On the state level, we have measures Proposition LL and Proposition MM. What proponents want us to believe is good “for the children” is really just a way to skirt the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights, or “TABOR,” that was passed by 70 percent of voters in Colorado and continues with significant support. TABOR requires the state to refund excess revenue to taxpayers, ensuring government lives within its means. Proposition LL, (House Bill 25-1274), would allow the state to retain and spend $12.4 million in excess revenue and interest already collected from reduced income tax deductions under 2022’s Proposition FF. This money, generated by limiting deductions for high earners, would go toward the Healthy School Meals for All Program without triggering TABOR refunds. Similarly, Proposition MM (Senate Bill 25B-003), aims to increase state taxes by $95 million annually by further limiting itemized or standard deductions to $1,000 for single filers and $2,000 for joint filers earning $300,000 or more. Proponents argue it’s about feeding kids and boosting local agriculture, but in reality, it’s just a sneaky tax hike that overrides TABOR’s voter protections. The legislature continues to repackage issues in their usual fashion to try and trick voters into passing measures to get around the Colorado Constitution. This is exhausting! Why can’t they simply live within their means just like we are expected to do? VOTE NO on LL and MM to uphold TABOR and prevent these end-runs around fiscal accountability. Passing these would set a precedent for more government overreach, chipping away at the safeguards Coloradans value.

School Board Elections: Prioritizing Classical Education

All across the state of Colorado, there are school board elections that need our attention. More than two dozen school districts across the state will decide on the fate of who leads our children. I cannot stress the importance enough of ensuring that conservatives get out there and vote in strong conservative voices onto our school boards. Our school boards need to be giving strong direction to ensure that classical education is at the forefront rather than entrenching our children in sick ideology; this will require strong conservative leadership from our school boards. Key races include Montrose County School District, where there are four seats up for grabs and four strong conservative candidates are pushing hard. Denver Public Schools, where four of seven seats are up, pitting candidates focused on traditional academics against those pushing progressive curricula. In Jeffco Public Schools, one of the state’s largest districts, multiple seats are contested, with debates over parental rights and school choice at the center. Boulder Valley School District has races emphasizing fiscal conservatism versus expanded social programs. Greeley-Evans School District 6 features candidates vying to prioritize core subjects over divisive ideologies. Other notable districts include Aurora Public Schools, where board control could shift toward voucher support, and Douglas County, a conservative stronghold facing challenges from well-funded opponents. In total, over 100 seats statewide are in play, according to the Colorado Association of School Boards. Conservatives must research candidates and back those committed to excellence, discipline, and parental involvement. Sitting this out risks more indoctrination in classrooms, undermining the foundational education our kids deserve.

Local Battles: The Montrose County Recall

In Montrose County, there is the case of the Recall of County Commissioner Scott Mijares. Fueled by out-of-state money from the likes of George Soros’ Open Society Foundation and then funneled through their regional partner, the Montana-based Western Organization of Resource Councils, then to the Western Colorado Alliance, who then funnels it to “Colorado Rural Voters” locally, this effort targets a commissioner who has stood for transparency and local control. Opponents have raised funds through far-left networks, with reports of external donations exceeding $16,000 as of mid-October. 

A yes vote on the recall would remove Mijares; A NO VOTE keeps him in office. This is a prime example of outside influences meddling in local governance. 

Other Key Races and Issues Across Colorado

In Denver, voters face a massive $950 million bond package across five measures (2A-2E) for infrastructure, parks, housing, and more, without tax increases but adding to city debt. Unchecked spending that burdens future generations. Question 2G would change at-large city council elections to separate races with potential runoffs, potentially diluting progressive influence but sparking debate over representation. In Colorado Springs, city council seats and school board races focus on growth management and education funding. Boulder County has coordinated elections with local issues like transportation bonds. Statewide, these local contests could tip the balance on property taxes, development, and community priorities. Research your ballot at GoVoteColorado.gov to ensure conservative principles prevail. From municipal bonds in Fort Collins to judicial retention votes, every item matters in preserving fiscal sanity and local values.

Mobilize and Vote

This 2025 election may lack national spotlight, but its outcomes will shape Colorado for years. From thwarting tax grabs to securing school boards, conservatives must mobilize. Drop off your ballot at a secure box, vote in person. Your voice matters; don’t let apathy hand victories to the left. Get informed, get involved, and vote to protect our state’s future.

Michael is a father of five, grandfather of three, United States Air Force veteran, international recording artist, and Editor-in-Chief of the Colorado DOGE Report. He is passionate about the United States of America and the founders’ genius in crafting the Constitution.

Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in commentary pieces are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management of the Rocky Mountain Voice, but even so we support the constitutional right of the author to express those opinions.