Immigration remains a top concern for many voters in Colorado, especially conservatives, as seen in the Voter Voices survey conducted by Colorado media outlets. The state has a diverse immigrant population, including naturalized citizens, permanent residents, refugees, and asylum seekers. Estimates place the number of undocumented immigrants in Colorado at around 150,000 to 170,000.
Recent arrivals, particularly from Venezuela, have increased the immigrant population in Colorado. Political candidates have laid out different visions for immigration policy, with President Donald Trump vowing mass deportation and Vice President Kamala Harris focusing on new arrivals at the border.
Immigration policy is primarily set at the federal level by Congress and the president. Congressional candidates and state lawmakers play a role in shaping immigration policy through legislation. While Colorado has implemented some pro-immigrant policies, such as offering driver’s licenses to undocumented residents, not all communities are supportive of immigrants.
Aurora has faced claims of violence from Venezuelan gang members, but local law enforcement says the concern is limited. Elected officials have the power to dictate how their offices interact with immigration enforcement. Denver voters will decide on Referred Question 2T, which would eliminate citizenship requirements for police officers and firefighters.
Immigration remains a complex issue in Colorado, with voters having the power to influence policy through their choice of elected officials and ballot measures. Stay informed on Colorado politics by signing up for the weekly newsletter, The Spot.
Source
Photo credit www.denverpost.com