Recovering the Spirit: Gov. Jared Polis’s Last State of the State Address

On January 15, 2026, Colorado Governor Jared Polis delivered a poignant and reflective final State of the State address at the Colorado State Capitol. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as Polis engaged with legislators, family, and Coloradans in a comprehensive overview of his administration’s journey over the past seven years.

A Personal Touch

Polis opened his speech with heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging the support from his family—specifically his husband, Marlon, and their children. Celebrating his family’s unwavering support over his tenure, Polis emphasized the importance of community and the companionship shared throughout his journey. With a nod to the challenges of parenthood, his light-hearted remark about his kids being in school added a relatable touch to his serious declarations.

Recognition of Partnerships

The Governor took the opportunity to spotlight key figures in his administration, particularly his Lieutenant Governor, Dianne Primavera. Polis noted the significance of collaborative effort in navigating complex issues that affect the state and commended his chief of staff and senior staff for their diligence and dedication. This acknowledgment wasn’t merely routine; it underscored the collective spirit of governance and the successes achieved through teamwork.

Reflecting on Achievements

Polis recapped significant milestones achieved during his tenure. Initiatives such as free kindergarten and preschool were highlighted as transformative, saving families money while ensuring that children receive essential early education. He spoke about advancements in renewable energy that not only protect the environment but also boost Colorado’s job market.

Moreover, Polis noted the importance of breaking down housing barriers, emphasizing that affordable housing should be accessible to all Coloradans, regardless of their income. He took pride in financial accomplishments as well, underscoring three income tax cuts and improvements in the earned income and child tax credits that resulted in an impressive 41% reduction in child poverty rates.

The Challenges Ahead

While celebrating these achievements, Polis didn’t shy away from confronting the challenges faced during his administration, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic, which tested the resilience of Coloradans. He accentuated the unity that emerged during a time of crisis, praising the healthcare workers who prioritized public safety and health. Through transparent communication during the pandemic, his administration fostered a sense of trust in the face of uncertainty.

Polis candidly addressed tragedies, including mass shootings and deadly wildfires, marking these events as pivotal moments in shaping his governance. His call to remember the losses experienced by communities reminded everyone of the ongoing fight against divisive rhetoric and violence.

A Bold Vision for the Future

As he looked forward to 2026, Polis articulated his vision for a more inclusive Colorado—a "Colorado for All." He expressed the need for ongoing support in crafting environments where diversity thrives. With a focus on shared opportunity, Polis reinforced the idea that compassion and respect must be central tenets of governance.

He called for continued cooperation among all political factions to advance inclusive policies and address pressing issues like affordable housing and enhanced transit solutions. Through examples like the Educator First Housing Initiative, which aims to assist teachers in purchasing homes, Polis demonstrated the actionable steps that align with this vision.

Balancing State and Federal Dynamics

The Governor also drew attention to the tension between state autonomy and federal governance, particularly under the Trump administration. He raised concerns over federal funding cuts affecting Colorado, stressing that state resources need to be protected while standing against measures that undermine local governance. This nuance in his address reflected the broader national discourse on governance, power dynamics, and state rights.

Polis emphasized the need for a united front, transcending political affiliations, to surmount the roadblocks imposed by federal policies. His call for collaboration offered an optimistic yet realistic perspective on how states can navigate challenging political landscapes.

A Call to Action

Polis concluded on a hopeful note, invoking the spirit of unity, innovation, and progress that characterizes Colorado. With aspirations to continue the journey towards a better future for all Coloradans, he articulated a message of empowerment and resilience.

His closing remarks, laced with humor and heartfelt sentiments, reinforced the importance of kindness and intentionality in governance. Through his reflections, Polis leaves a legacy of dedication and progress, inspiring not just Coloradans but future leaders across the nation to embrace the power of service.

This State of the State address serves as a testament to the trials and triumphs of an administration committed to the collective well-being of its citizens, leaving a dynamic blueprint for the years to come in Colorado’s ongoing narrative.