Hello, fellow Coloradans,
Colorado has historically been a state where businesses thrive, entrepreneurs innovate, and communities flourish. But Colorado is losing its competitive edge, and the numbers don’t lie. According to CNBC’s annual evaluation of the 50 states, Colorado has taken a significant hit in the rankings for business friendliness and cost of doing business. This is a wake-up call for all of us who care about the future of our state’s economy.
Colorado’s Decline in Business Friendliness
Just last year, Colorado was ranked 18th in the nation for business friendliness. In 2024, we’ve plummeted to 32nd. This dramatic drop is a clear sign that something is going wrong at the State Capitol. Anti-Jobs legislation and overregulation are making it harder for businesses to start, grow, and thrive. The consequences are clear: fewer jobs, slower economic growth, and a less vibrant economy.
The Rising Cost of Doing Business
Our state also ranks 39th for the cost of doing business, worsening from 38th last year. The rising costs are driven by increased regulations, higher taxes, and a legislative environment that seems more focused on stifling growth than encouraging it. Small businesses, the backbone of our economy, are feeling the squeeze, and many are struggling to stay afloat. When businesses are burdened with high costs, it’s not just the owners who suffer—workers lose jobs, families face financial uncertainty, and our communities lose vital services and opportunities.
This Shouldn’t Be Happening in Colorado
Colorado is a state with boundless potential. We have a highly educated workforce, a culture of innovation, and a stunning natural environment that attracts talent from all over the world. Yet, despite these advantages, our state is slipping in the rankings, and it’s due to policies that are out of touch with the needs of businesses and workers alike.
It shouldn’t be this way! We should be leading the nation in economic growth, job creation, and business innovation. Instead, we’re falling behind, and the consequences are being felt by families across Colorado. Voters increasingly tell me they are worried that Colorado is no longer a great place to start or run a business.
My Commitment to Reviving Colorado’s Business Environment
As your candidate for the Colorado State Senate, I am committed to making Colorado a great place to start and operate a business again. Here’s how I plan to do it:
- Reversing Anti-Jobs Legislation: I will work tirelessly to roll back regulations and laws that are hurting businesses and driving up costs. We need policies that encourage growth, not stifle it.
- Reducing the Cost of Doing Business: I will advocate for lower taxes and reduced red tape, making it easier and more affordable for businesses to operate in Colorado. When businesses thrive, so do our communities.
- Promoting a Pro-Business Environment: I will work to create a legislative environment that is welcoming to entrepreneurs, innovators, and job creators. We need to restore Colorado’s reputation as a state that is open for business.
- Supporting Small Businesses: Small businesses are the heart of our economy. I will prioritize policies that help small business owners flourish by removing government obstacles.
A Brighter Future for Colorado
Colorado’s decline in the rankings is a warning sign that we cannot ignore. We need leaders who understand the importance of a strong business environment and are willing to fight for policies that support growth and prosperity. Together, we can turn things around and make Colorado the best place in the nation to do business.
For more information on my campaign and how you can help us revive Colorado’s economy, please visit my website here.
Thank you for your support,
Scott Bright
Candidate for Colorado State Senate, District 13
Let’s work together to restore Colorado’s competitive edge and create a brighter future for all Coloradans. Join me in this mission.