Morgan Carroll, a Democrat from Aurora, was selected unanimously to lead the Colorado Senate after a short meeting Wednesday. Carroll, a staunch advocate for consumer rights issues and stricter oil and gas drilling rules, was previously the majority leader.
“People are frustrated of government not working and I think it’s important to remind people that Colorado is a counter example,” the newly elected Carroll said.
She says a top priority for the session is making sure people have good paying jobs and affordable education. Carroll also expects lawmakers to deal with unmet needs related to flooding and wildfires.
“I think everyone’s in a really pragmatic place where we’re interested in cataloguing what the needs are in the state and what we can do to get it done,” Carroll said. “Honestly I think people are pretty much in problem-solving mode.”
Carroll will be the second female Senate president in Colorado history. Rollie Heath of Boulder succeeds her as the Democrat's Majority Leader.
Across the aisle, Republicans in the Senate criticize Carroll for being too liberal.
“Next session will be even more extreme than the previous one, because they know they’re going to lose and this is their last chance,” said Senator Greg Brophy (R-Wray), who is running for Governor.
Republicans had previously gained two seats in the chamber when former senate president, John Morse (D-Colorado Springs) and Angela Giron (D-Pueblo) were both recalled over their support for stricter gun laws. When lawmakers return in January Democrats will still hold a one seat majority.
