Your look at the Colorado election results that will be talked about today.
1. A DEEPER SHADE OF BLUE
Political watchers often call Colorado a purple state, backing Democrats and Republican in equal measure. But this battleground wasn’t a nail-biter Tuesday, handing its 9 electoral votes to President Barack Obama. It was the latest sign that this once-reliably Republican state is inching toward the Democrats’ corner, helping the party win in the fast-growing West and geographically box in the GOP.
2. HANG ON TO YOUR CHEETOS
Coloradans approved recreational marijuana, setting up an epic clash with federal drug law. Colorado’s Democratic governor opposed the measure but joked about its passage. Gov. John Hickenlooper warned, “don’t break out the Cheetos or Goldfish too quickly,” predicting legal wrangling.
3. CIVIL UNIONS WON WITHOUT A RACE
Civil unions weren’t on Colorado ballots Tuesday, but the elections could pave the way for recognition of same-sex couples. Republicans were expected to lose control of the state House, which would give Democrats control of both chambers of the Legislature. Democrats have vowed to usher through civil unions for gay couples.
4. THROW THE BUMS … BACK IN
All seven Colorado members of the U.S. House were re-elected Tuesday. Challengers to the four Republicans and three Democrats tried to capitalize on public disapproval of Congress, but voters returned all congressional incumbents.
5. WHY THEY DIDN’T TALK ABOUT GUNS
After July’s mass shooting in Aurora, many expected gun control to play a role in Colorado races. Exit polls Tuesday showed why the question never garnered much debate. A majority of voters said current gun laws are “about right.”