Colorado 2025 Voter Opinion Survey

Key Findings: Colorado 2025 Voter Opinion Survey

A statewide survey of 1,136 Colorado registered voters, conducted July 30–August 12, 2025, with a margin of error of ±2.91%. Data weighted to the Colorado registered-voter population. Designed and funded by Magellan Strategies.

• 72% of Colorado voters rate the U.S. economy as “fair” or “poor”; just 26% call it “excellent” or “good,” and 57% expect it to worsen over the next year.
• 78% say the rising cost of living is causing their family financial stress (40% “serious,” 38% “some”).
• President Trump’s job approval among Colorado voters is 41% approve / 59% disapprove; only 35% feel he is focused on the issues most important to their family.
• 63% hold an unfavorable view of the federal “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”; 34% are favorable.
• Majorities oppose budget cuts and layoffs at every federal department tested, led by the Department of Education and FEMA (61% disapprove each).
• 80% believe new tariffs will make the goods they buy more expensive; on the tariff policy itself, voters split 41% support / 57% oppose.
• The U.S. Supreme Court draws 36% approval / 59% disapproval; ICE draws 42% / 57%.
• Both major parties are underwater in Colorado: the Republican Party is viewed 30% favorable / 68% unfavorable, and just 23% approve of Democrats in Congress.
• On a generic congressional ballot, Democrats lead 52% to 38%, and 58% of voters would consider an independent or third-party candidate.
• 53% say Colorado is on the wrong track versus 40% right direction; 66% rate the state economy “fair” or “poor.”
• Governor Jared Polis is at 41% approve / 52% disapprove; in a generic governor ballot test, Democrats lead 50% to 38%.
• TABOR is familiar to 67% of voters and leans positive (45% favorable, 22% unfavorable, 33% no opinion); 53% support wolf reintroduction while 37% oppose.

Magellan Strategies is pleased to present the findings of a voter opinion survey of 1,136 Colorado registered voters. The interviews were conducted from July 30th to August 12th, 2025. The statewide results for each question have a margin of error of ±2.91 % at the 95% confidence interval. The survey data were weighted to be representative of the Colorado registered voter population demographics. This survey was designed and paid for by Magellan Strategies. No individual or organization contributed to the cost or reviewed the survey questions. Our motive for this survey was to measure and understand the opinions of Colorado voters regarding the Trump Administration’s policies and actions. Additionally, we wanted to understand how Coloradans think and feel about state policies, individuals, and the economy. Any questions regarding this survey and methodology can be directed to David Flaherty at [email protected]. 

View and Download the Survey Results

Survey Topline Results Survey Presentation Survey Crosstabs Favorable Opinions of the Democratic Party Verbatim Responses Unfavorable Opinions of the Democratic Party Verbatim Responses Favorable Opinions of they Republican Party Verbatim Responses Unfavorable Opinions of the Republican Party Verbatim Responses Why Colorado is Headed in the Right Direction Verbatims Why Colorado is Off On the Wrong Track Verbatims Why Coloradans Have a Favorable Opinion of TABOR Why Coloradans Have an Unfavorable Opinion of TABOR

Opinions on the U.S. Economy & Cost of Living

The survey results show that most voters hold a negative view of the U.S. economy. Statewide, 72% rated the economy as “fair” or “poor,” while only 26% rated it “excellent” or “good.” Assessments varied by demographics: men and older voters were slightly more positive than women and younger voters, but across all groups negative ratings dominated. Partisan differences were clear—68% of Democrats rated the economy as poor compared to 27% of Republicans, while Republicans were far more likely to say the economy was good or excellent. Looking ahead, 57% of respondents expect the economy to worsen over the next 12 months, 35% think it will improve, and just 7% expect it to remain about the same. Republicans (82%) were especially likely to predict improvement, while nearly all Democrats (94%) believed it would get worse.

When asked about the impact of the cost of living on their families, stress was a major theme. Forty percent said costs are causing “serious stress,” and another 38% said costs are causing “some stress.” Only a small share reported that the cost of living was “not a concern.” Lower-income households were the most stressed, with 45% of those earning less than $75,000 saying costs cause serious stress. Younger voters (18–44) also reported higher levels of stress compared to older groups. Democrats and Harris voters were more likely than Republicans and Trump voters to report experiencing serious stress; however, in every subgroup, at least two-thirds reported that the cost of living is a source of financial pressure. Overall, the findings show widespread pessimism about the economy and deep concern about household financial strain.

Donald Trump’s Job Approval in Fourteen Policy Areas

The survey data indicate that, overall, Donald Trump’s job approval rating is more negative than positive across most areas and voter groups. Among all respondents, 41% approved of his overall job performance, while 59% disapproved. The sharpest criticism was directed at issues such as government spending (65% disapproved), healthcare (63% disapproved), and handling inflation and the rising cost of living (63% disapproved). Younger voters (ages 18–34) were especially critical, with 72% disapproving of his overall job performance and similar or higher disapproval on most issues, particularly the economy, foreign policy, education, and healthcare. Seniors (65 and older) were more evenly split, with 47% approving and 53% disapproving, indicating stronger support on issues such as immigration, border security, and public safety.

Support among Trump voters was overwhelmingly strong. Ninety-one percent approved of his overall job performance, with approval above 80% across nearly all policy areas. Even on traditionally more divisive issues such as healthcare, government spending, and foreign policy, Trump voters expressed majority approval, reflecting deep loyalty within his base. In contrast, unaffiliated voters leaned strongly negative, with only 36% approving of Trump’s overall job performance compared to 63% disapproving. Unaffiliated respondents expressed a majority of disapproval across every policy area, particularly in the areas of the economy, healthcare, and government spending.

When asked whether Trump is focusing on the issues most important to them and their families, just 35% of respondents said “yes,” while 61% said “no.” This perception varied sharply by political alignment: 82% of Trump voters believed he was addressing their key issues, compared to only 3% of Democrats and 29% of unaffiliated voters. Demographic differences also stood out—men, older voters, and Republicans were more likely than women, younger voters, and Democrats to feel he is focused on their concerns. Overall, the data highlights a stark partisan and generational divide, with Trump’s support concentrated among his base and older voters, while younger and unaffiliated voters remain largely opposed.

Opinions on the One Big Beautiful Bill

The survey results show that statewide, only 34% of Colorado voters hold a favorable opinion of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” while 63% view it unfavorably and 3% have no opinion. Views split sharply by demographics and partisanship: men (39%) were more favorable than women (29%), younger voters (18–44) were far less favorable (23%) than older groups, and Democrats overwhelmingly opposed it (97% unfavorable) while Republicans strongly supported it (84% favorable). Income and education made less difference, with unfavorable opinions holding majority across groups. Geographic results varied: support was especially low in Congressional Districts 1 and 2 (16% and 21% favorable), while District 4 (52% favorable) and District 8 (43% favorable) were more supportive. Overall, the Act is viewed negatively by a majority of voters, with partisan identity being the strongest driver of opinion.

Opinions on Federal Department Cuts & Job Layoffs

The survey shows that the majority of respondents disapprove of budget cuts and job layoffs across all listed federal organizations and departments. Disapproval is highest for the Department of Education and FEMA (61% each), followed closely by the EPA and Medicaid Program (60% each), with PBS (59%) and NPR (58%) also facing strong opposition to cuts. USAID (56%) and the IRS (54%) show slightly lower disapproval rates, but still a majority. Approval of cuts ranges from 34% for FEMA to 41% for the IRS, while “no opinion” responses are minimal, between 3% and 5%. Overall, the data reflect broad opposition to reducing funding and staff across these federal agencies and programs.

Opinions on the Trump Administration’s Tariff Policies

The survey findings indicate that most voters believe tariffs will raise consumer costs, with 80% stating that new tariffs on imported goods would make the items they purchase more expensive. Only 7% thought tariffs would lower prices, while another 7% said they would have no impact, and 6% had no opinion. This belief cuts across demographic groups, with majorities of men, women, all age groups, and income levels expecting higher costs. Democrats were especially convinced (98%), while a slimmer majority of Republicans (52%) agreed, with more of them believing tariffs would have no impact or could lower prices compared to other groups. Education showed some divide, as those without a degree (76%) were slightly less likely than college-educated voters (84%) to expect higher costs.

When asked directly about President Trump’s tariff policy, opinion was more divided, though still negative overall. Statewide, 41% supported the policy while 57% opposed it. Support was stronger among men, older voters, Republicans (91%), Trump voters (90%), and those without a college degree, while opposition was highest among women, younger voters, Democrats (93%), and Harris voters (93%). Geographically, support varied widely across congressional districts, ranging from just 23% in Districts 1 and 2 to a majority in Districts 4 (60%), 8 (53%), and 3 (52%). These results suggest that while most voters anticipate tariffs will raise everyday costs, support for or opposition to the policy itself is heavily shaped by partisanship and region.

Opinions on the Supreme Court

The survey results show that 36% of respondents approve of the job the U.S. Supreme Court is doing, while 59% disapprove and 5% have no opinion. Approval is higher among men (43%), voters 45 or older (45%), Republicans (74%), Trump voters (77%), and those without a college degree (38%). Disapproval is strongest among women (64%), younger voters aged 18–44 (67%), Democrats (89%), Harris voters (91%), and households with lower incomes (66%). Education levels also show differences, with 62% of college-educated respondents disapproving compared to 56% of those without a degree. Overall, the opinion of the Supreme Court is more negative than positive, with stark partisan and demographic divides.

Opinions on Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The survey results show that overall, 42% of respondents approve of the job U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is doing, while 57% disapprove and 1% have no opinion. Approval is higher among men (50%), middle-aged voters 45–64 (54%), Republicans (90%), Trump voters (91%), and those without a college degree (46%). Disapproval is strongest among women (64%), younger voters 18–44 (67%), Democrats (93%), Harris voters (94%), and those with a college degree (62%). Income levels showed mixed results, with approval ranging from 34% among those earning under $ 75,000 to 45% among those in the $ 75,000–$ 150,000 range. Overall, the opinion of ICE is sharply divided along partisan, generational, and gender lines.

Opinions on the Republican Party

The survey data show that overall views of the Republican Party are more negative than positive, with 68% of respondents holding an unfavorable opinion and just 30% holding a favorable one. Favorability is much higher among Republicans (87%) and Trump voters (79%), while only 2% of Democrats and 28% of unaffiliated voters view the party positively. Younger voters (18–44) and lower-income households are especially critical, while men, older voters, and those without a college degree are somewhat more favorable.

Respondents who view the GOP positively most often cite themes of fiscal responsibility, limited government, and support for traditional values. Many also praise the party for its emphasis on patriotism, respect for the Constitution, and strong national defense, as well as its focus on free-market policies, economic growth, and law and order. These themes resonate particularly with Republicans and Trump voters, who credit the party with advancing policies that align with their priorities.

On the other hand, unfavorable opinions are driven by concerns about the party’s alignment with Donald Trump and MAGA politics, with many citing extremism and radical views as reasons for disapproval. Respondents also criticize the GOP’s stance on social issues like reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ rights, along with accusations of dishonesty, corruption, and obstructionism. Overall job approval for Republicans in Congress is low, with just 34% approving and 63% disapproving. Furthermore, a majority (56%) believe Republicans in the federal government are too extreme and often go too far, a sentiment strongly held among Democrats (91%) and younger voters (66%), but rejected by most Republicans (85%).

Opinions on the Democratic Party

The data show that Democrats in Congress are viewed unfavorably by a majority of respondents, with 74% disapproving of their job performance and only 23% approving. Women (31% approve) are more positive than men (15% approve), but both genders lean heavily negative. Disapproval is highest among Republicans (92%) and Trump voters (92%), while Democrats are more supportive (47% approve, 51% disapprove). Younger voters (18–44) also express strong disapproval (75%). Overall, only a small minority of groups give Democrats in Congress a net positive rating.

When asked why they hold favorable views of the Democratic Party, respondents highlight the party’s focus on middle- and working-class Americans, social justice protections (including civil rights, women’s rights, and LGBTQ+ rights), and its defense of democracy and the Constitution. Supporters also credit Democrats for prioritizing public services, such as healthcare, education, and environmental protection, viewing these as benefits for the majority rather than the wealthy. Many also view Democrats as the “better alternative” to Republicans, describing them as less extreme, more ethical, and more aligned with science and facts.

On the other hand, unfavorable opinions of the Democratic Party are driven by criticisms of poor leadership and ineffective policy direction, excessive government control and spending, and a perception that the party is pushing progressive or “woke” policies that are out of touch with mainstream values. Respondents also cite frustration with inaction on key issues such as border security and economic stability, and some describe Democrats as dishonest or corrupt. Finally, half of the respondents (50%) say Democrats in the federal government are extreme and often go too far, while 46% disagree, showing a near-even split on whether the party is viewed as radical.

Congressional Ballot Test & Third-Party Candiate Support

The congressional ballot test shows Democrats with a clear lead over Republicans, with 52% of respondents saying they would vote for the Democratic candidate compared to 38% for the Republican, while 10% remain undecided. Democrats hold especially strong support among women (58%), younger voters aged 18–44 (61%), and lower-income households with an annual income of under $ 75,000 (56%). Republicans perform better among men (45%) and voters without a four-year degree (43%). Partisan loyalty is strong, with 93% of Democrats and 89% of Republicans sticking with their party’s candidate. Unaffiliated voters lean Democratic by 21 points (53% to 32%), a key factor in the overall Democratic advantage.

At the same time, a majority of voters show an openness to alternatives outside the two major parties. When asked if they would consider voting for an independent or third-party candidate for Congress, 58% said yes, 30% no, and 12% were undecided. Support for third-party options is especially strong among younger voters (63%), lower-income households (63%), and unaffiliated voters (68%). Even 41% of Republicans and 52% of Democrats expressed willingness to consider a third-party candidate, signaling a widespread appetite for alternatives beyond the two main parties.

Opinions on American Support for Ukraine

Overall, support for U.S. aid to Ukraine is strong, though it varies by type of aid and political affiliation. Across all respondents, 69% support offensive military aid, such as missiles and ammunition, while 62% support both financial aid and defensive aid, including anti-missile and anti-drone systems. Opposition is relatively steady, with around one-third opposing financial and defensive aid, and about 27% opposing offensive military aid. Only a small percentage—4% to 5%—have no opinion.

Examining partisan differences, Democrats exhibit the highest levels of support, with 71% backing offensive military aid, 80% supporting financial aid, and 81% favoring defensive aid. Unaffiliated voters also lean strongly in favor, with support ranging from 63% to 70%. Republicans are more divided, with only half supporting offensive aid and less than 40% backing financial aid. Among self-identified MAGA respondents, opposition is strongest: 51% to 53% oppose defensive and offensive aid, and 65% oppose financial aid. This highlights a sharp partisan divide, with Democrats and unaffiliated voters broadly supportive, while Republicans—especially MAGA voters—are far more skeptical of continued U.S. involvement in aiding Ukraine.

Opinions on the Colorado Economy

Most Coloradans rate the state’s economy negatively, with 66% saying it is “fair” (43%) or “poor” (23%), while only 28% describe it as “excellent” or “good.” Negative views are especially strong among Republicans (82% fair/poor) and Trump voters (83% fair/poor), while Democrats are somewhat more positive, though still split. Higher-income residents and those with a four-year degree are more likely to rate the economy positively than lower-income individuals and those without a degree, although no group reports a majority saying the economy is in good shape.

Looking ahead, pessimism remains high, with 54% expecting the economy to deteriorate over the next 12 months. Only 9% think it will improve, while 31% expect it to remain about the same. Younger adults (18–44) and lower-income households express the most negative outlooks, while optimism is slightly higher among seniors and higher-income residents, though still far from a majority.

Partisan divides remain sharp: 58% of Democrats think the economy will worsen, compared to 52% of Republicans and 53% of unaffiliated voters. Trump and Harris voters are also aligned in their outlook, with both groups showing majorities expecting conditions to decline. Overall, while there is some variation across demographics, the dominant mood is one of dissatisfaction with current conditions and concern about further economic decline in the year ahead.

Is Colorado Headed in Right Direction or on the Wrong Track?

The survey results show that more Coloradans believe the state is off on the wrong track (53%) than headed in the right direction (40%), with 7% unsure. Democrats are the most positive, with 68% saying the state is on the right track, while 92% of Republicans and 51% of unaffiliated voters feel Colorado is on the wrong track. Younger adults and women tend to be more optimistic than older adults and men, though pessimism is strong across most subgroups.

Those who feel Colorado is on the right track often cite the state’s strong economy, job growth, and low unemployment, along with pride in its natural environment and recreational opportunities. Many also point to progressive and inclusive policies, effective leadership, and a strong sense of community and public well-being as reasons for optimism.

In contrast, those who say the state is on the wrong track most often mention the high cost of living, especially housing affordability, as a major concern. Other common criticisms include homelessness, public safety issues, poor political leadership, overly progressive policies they see as out of touch, and inadequate infrastructure or growth management to handle population increases. These issues drive much of the dissatisfaction among residents.

Colorado Elected Official & Organization Job Approval Ratings

The survey finds that Governor Jared Polis is narrowly viewed more negatively than positively, with 52% disapproving of his job performance and 41% approving, while 7% have no opinion. Women lean more supportive (47% approve) than men (35% approve), and Democrats strongly back him (69% approve) compared to Republicans (86% disapprove). Approval is higher among those with higher incomes and education levels, while Trump voters overwhelmingly disapprove (88%).

Senator Michael Bennet’s approval is somewhat similar, but with a larger share of respondents holding no opinion. Overall, 44% disapprove, 38% approve, and 18% have no opinion. Democrats are more supportive (61% approve), but Republicans strongly disapprove (73%). Younger voters (18–44) are less favorable toward him compared to older voters, while respondents with higher incomes and those who are college-educated are more approving. A significant portion of unaffiliated voters disapprove (45%), though Bennet holds majority support among Democrats.

Senator John Hickenlooper’s numbers show 49% disapproval, 37% approval, and 14% with no opinion. His strongest support comes from Democrats (64% approve), while Republicans disapprove heavily (83%). Women are more supportive (42% approve) compared to men (31%), and approval is somewhat higher among older and higher-income respondents. Notably, Hickenlooper draws more opposition among unaffiliated voters (50% disapprove) than either Polis or Bennet.

Comparing the three, all three Democrats face net negative approval ratings, but Polis has the narrowest gap between approval and disapproval, while Bennet shows the highest share of undecided respondents, suggesting weaker name recognition or softer opinions. Hickenlooper faces the most consistent disapproval, particularly among unaffiliated voters, which makes his numbers slightly worse than those of the others. Across all three, Democrats remain supportive while Republicans are overwhelmingly negative, with unaffiliated voters leaning more toward disapproval.

Colroado Governor Generic Ballot Test

In a hypothetical gubernatorial election, half of Colorado voters (50%) say they would support the Democratic candidate, compared to 38% for the Republican, while 12% remain undecided. Democrats are highly consolidated, with 91% backing their party’s candidate, while Republicans show similar partisan loyalty at 90%. Among unaffiliated voters—a key group—support splits evenly at 50% Democrat to 31% Republican, with 19% undecided.

Democrats perform especially well with women (56% Democrat vs. 32% Republican), younger voters ages 18–44 (60% Democrat vs. 29% Republican), and lower- and higher-income groups. Republicans perform better among men (45% Republican vs. 43% Democrat), voters aged 45–64, and those without a four-year degree. Both Trump and Harris voters are overwhelmingly aligned with their respective parties, but undecided voters remain a notable share across most demographics, especially among unaffiliated and college-educated individuals.

Opinions on TABOR, the Taxpayer Bill of Rights

Overall, 67% of respondents report being at least somewhat familiar with the Colorado Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR) Amendment, with 24% very familiar and 43% somewhat familiar, while 27% admit to little or no familiarity. Familiarity is generally higher among older respondents, higher-income groups, Republicans, and Trump voters. In contrast, younger respondents and Democrats exhibit lower levels of deep familiarity, although most groups show at least some awareness of the measure.

When asked for reasons behind favorable opinions of TABOR, respondents highlight themes such as limiting government spending and growth, requiring voter approval for tax increases, and promoting fiscal responsibility. Supporters also cite TABOR as a safeguard for taxpayers and individual finances, ensuring that residents keep more of their own money, while also enhancing government accountability by requiring elected officials to justify their spending decisions directly to voters.

Public opinion on TABOR itself is divided but leans more positive, with 45% favorable, 22% unfavorable, and a large 33% holding no opinion. Favorability is strongest among older voters, higher-income earners, Republicans, and Trump voters, while Democrats and Harris voters are more skeptical. The large share of respondents with no opinion suggests that while TABOR is well-known, many voters remain neutral or unsure in their assessment.

Among those with unfavorable opinions of TABOR, criticisms focus on its restrictions on funding for essential public services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Respondents also argue that it hampers government flexibility in emergencies or changing conditions, is outdated in light of Colorado’s current realities, and is overly complex for voters to comprehend. Some feel TABOR prioritizes tax cuts over community investments, weakening the state’s ability to meet broader public needs.

Colorado Wolf Reintroduction Issue

Most Colorado voters are well-informed about the wolf reintroduction issue, with 91% indicating they are very or somewhat informed, and only 6% reporting no knowledge at all. Awareness levels are high across demographic groups, though men (37%) and Republicans (44%) are more likely than women (27%) and Democrats (22%) to describe themselves as “very informed.” Education and income levels show only modest differences in familiarity.

When asked directly about wolf reintroduction, voters statewide are split, but a majority (53%) express support, while 37% oppose and 10% have no opinion. Support is strongest among Democrats (74%), younger voters, and lower-income households, while opposition is highest among Republicans (59%), residents of Congressional Districts 3 and 4 (Western Slope and Eastern Plains), and older voters. The issue remains divisive, but overall, more Coloradans back wolf reintroduction than oppose it.

Survey Demographics & Methodology