Colorado Senate opens 2026 session with calls to lower costs and bipartisan cooperation

The Colorado Senate opened its second regular session on Jan. 13, 2026, with the chamber's presiding officer calling on members to "govern courageously" and prioritize lowering costs for Coloradans, and the Senate minority leader emphasizing the need for cross‑aisle cooperation.

In his opening remarks to the 70th General Assembly, the presiding officer welcomed guests and new staff, honored the late Senator Faith Winter and outlined legislative priorities that included building more affordable housing, stabilizing health‑insurance premiums, consumer protections and workforce training. "When we do, we'll see Colorado's future in each and every constituent that we serve," the presiding officer said, urging lawmakers to focus on affordability and pragmatic solutions.

Melvin J. Baker, chairman of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, delivered a land acknowledgment and invited members to visit the reservation, noting the tribe's history and membership "less than 1,500" as he urged mutual respect and cooperation.

Senate Minority Leader Cleve Simpson told colleagues that working together across the aisle is essential when confronting budget pressures and modern policy challenges, stressing the practical need for bipartisan coalitions. He reflected on the chamber's 150th anniversary and urged members to prioritize effective governance over partisan wins.

The chamber also observed ceremonial music and the Denver Children's Choir performed the national anthem at the opening. The Senate recessed to hear further leadership remarks and is scheduled to receive the State of the State address on Jan. 15, 2026.

This article is based on remarks delivered on the Senate floor during opening day. The most recent procedural item recorded was a recess until 1:30 p.m. later the same day.