Colorado Gov. Polis wields power despite lame-duck status
Gov. Jared Polis is a lame duck — but he still holds a veto pen.
Why it matters: The term-limited Democrat loomed large in the now-completed legislative term, evidenced by his record 11 vetoes, and his influence sets the stage for his final session in 2026.
State of play: A deepening rift between Polis and his fellow Democrats emerged as a major theme from this year's session on issues ranging from artificial intelligence to labor issues.
Polis signed 476 of 487 bills into law by last Friday, the deadline — 88% of the new laws included at least one Republican sponsor.
He signed business-friendly legislation and rejected measures tightening regulations on technology companies, calling them "what's right for Colorado."
Yes, but: The numbers mask the outward tension from the 2025 term that split Democrats.
Polis managed to use his veto threat to scuttle numerous other bills to keep them off his desk.
He vetoed three bipartisan measures and one to limit ambulance costs that passed with unanimous support.
What they're saying:"This isn't the first year where we've had conflict. I think maybe the difference is how visible it might be," House Speaker Julie McCluskie said at a recent event hosted by the Colorado Sun.
What we're watching: Asked if he feels like a lame duck, Polis demurred.
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