House Republican Leadership Notes Governor’s Special Session as Political Theater

(Denver, CO – August 6, 2025) – Today, Governor Jared Polis called a special legislative session for August 21 in response to the projected impacts of the federal Big Beautiful Bill. House Republican Leadership criticized the Governor’s move as an unnecessary and expensive political stunt, arguing that the state should focus on responsible budgeting rather than playing partisan blame games over anticipated adjustments in federal funding.

“This is a waste of taxpayer dollars and state resources,” said House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese. “The Governor is using a special session to stir fear about the Big Beautiful Bill when the truth is that the Big Beautiful Bill continues to cover the people it was designed to serve: seniors, single mothers, children, and people with disabilities.”

Assistant Minority Leader Ty Winter called out the Governor for his poor timing and disregard for rural Colorado.

“The State Fair is a time for rural communities to come together and celebrate their contributions; feeding our state, powering our economy, and showcasing Colorado values,” said Rep. Winter. “It is also a moment for the good people of rural Colorado to proudly share the results of their hard work with the entire state. Calling a special session during this time shows just how out of touch the Governor is with the people who do God’s work on God’s land.”

House Whip Carlos Barron pointed to the broader financial picture.

“This is not a revenue crisis. It is a spending and priorities crisis,” said Rep. Barron. “Instead of asking state agencies to find savings or eliminate waste, the Governor is demanding a blank check from taxpayers. House Republicans believe in protecting the integrity of Medicaid, not growing it into an unaccountable entitlement for noncitizens and those who choose not to work.”

House Caucus Chair Anthony Hartsook emphasized that the Governor’s priorities are out of step with everyday Coloradans.

“Families and small businesses across Colorado are being crushed under the weight of government overreach, rising costs, and reckless spending,” said Rep. Hartsook. “Instead of working with us to rein in waste and protect the most vulnerable, the Governor is using this special session to defend a broken system. House Republicans are committed to responsible budgeting that puts Colorado families first.”

House Republicans remain committed to responsible governance, compassionate care for the vulnerable, and protecting Colorado taxpayers.

“We do not need a special session,” said Leader Pugliese. “We need leadership that knows how to budget responsibly without putting political agendas ahead of Colorado families.”