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Rep. Shannon Bird: The Colorado Opportunity Caucus puts paychecks first

Jan 14, 2025

This story was originally published in Colorado Politics here.


In the face of unprecedented challenges and opportunities, it has become clear all hardworking Coloradans need champions who prioritize solutions over soundbites, collaboration over conflict and progress over partisanship. That is why we, as members of the Colorado state House and state Senate, are proud to announce the creation of the Colorado Opportunity Caucus.


The mission of this caucus is simple yet profound: to focus on the issues that truly matter to Colorado families — the kitchen-table concerns that affect paychecks, livelihoods and futures. From housing affordability to high-quality jobs, better schools and strengthening our local economy, we are dedicated to pragmatic solutions that expand opportunity for all Coloradans. Together, we aim to foster a culture of leadership where problem-solving and consensus building create lasting progress for working families.


For too long, political discourse has been dominated by extremes, leaving behind hardworking people who keep our state running. Divisive rhetoric and political theatrics have no place in the legislature when the stakes are this high. Families are struggling to afford housing, energy costs continue to rise, and our infrastructure — both physical and social — is overdue for an upgrade.


These aren’t partisan problems; they’re Colorado problems. Solving them requires leaders willing to roll up their sleeves, listen to diverse perspectives and find common ground.


The Colorado Opportunity Caucus is built on the belief collaboration isn’t a compromise — it’s a strength. Though members of this caucus may not always vote the same way on every issue, what unites us is our commitment to creating an environment where pragmatic leaders can tackle the key challenges head-on. This caucus will prioritize discussions that cut through gridlock and focus on results, not ideological purity:


Expanding the middle class

We are committed to promoting policies that foster upward mobility, advocate for homeownership and create high-quality jobs with fair wages and benefits.


Upgrading core infrastructure

From transportation to utilities, we will invest in the systems to keep our state moving and growing sustainably.


Market-based housing solutions

We will push for policies to increase housing supply, streamline regulations and make homeownership more attainable.


Supporting business growth

Entrepreneurs and small business owners are the backbone of our economy, and we’ll work to ensure they have the resources to thrive.


Investing in education and health care

Every Coloradan deserves access to high-quality schools and affordable health care. We will prioritize policies that strengthen these essential pillars.


Promoting collaborative leadership

We will stand against divisive politics and work to find practical solutions that benefit the people of Colorado.


The caucus members advancing this work are: Chair, Rep. Shannon Bird (HD 29); Vice Chair, Sen. Lindsey Daugherty (SD 19); Sen. Dylan Roberts (SD 8); Sen. Marc Snyder (SD 12); Sen. Judy Amabile (SD 13); Sen. Kyle Mullica (SD 24); Rep. Cecelia Espenoza (HD 4); Rep. Sean Camacho (HD 6); Rep. Karen McCormick (HD 11); Rep. Meghan Lukens (HD 26); Rep. Rebekah Stewart (HD 30); Rep. Jacque Phillips (HD 31); Rep. William Lindstedt, (HD 33); Rep. Michael Carter (HD 36); Rep. Lesley Smith (HD 49).


The Colorado Opportunity Caucus is more than a group — it’s a call to action. We are committed to bridging divides, embracing innovation and taking bold steps to address the needs of our communities. From protecting jobs to reducing energy costs, we will work tirelessly to ensure every Coloradan has the opportunity to succeed.


This is not about moving to the left or to the right. It’s about moving forward.


Colorado’s families deserve legislators who put people over politics. The Colorado Opportunity Caucus aims to be a home for progressively pragmatic and collaborative leaders who understand the best way to build a stronger state is by supporting the people who live and work here. We’re ready to get to work on the paycheck issues that matter most, and we invite others in the legislature to engage with us on these vital concerns.


This is a critical moment for Colorado. Let’s seize it together.


Shannon Bird represents Colorado’s 29th House District. Rep. Bird currently serves as vice chair of both the Joint Budget and Appropriations Committees. Lindsey Daugherty serves Colorado’s 19th Senate District. Sen. Daugherty serves on the Health & Human Services and Judiciary Committees.

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