House Republicans Introduce “Colorado Communities” Redistricting Map

Measure Touted as Last Best Hope for Bipartisan Compromise

DENVER—House Republicans introduced a fair redistricting map this afternoon that respects Colorado’s diverse geographic and cultural differences, is in line with state law, reflects the will of the vast majority of Coloradans, and includes Democrat recommendations. 

“This isn’t a Republican map, it’s a map for every Coloradan,” said State Rep. David Balmer, R-Centennial, who chairs the House Congressional Redistricting Committee.   “We continue to act in good faith with this map, taking into account organic testimony as well as Democrat and Republican ideas.   With only a few days left in the session, this is our last opportunity to adopt a truly bipartisan map.”

The “Colorado Communities Map” includes several Democrat requests, including putting most of Aurora in the Sixth Congressional District, keeping Denver whole and keeping Longmont in the Fourth Congressional District.

“We have done everything we can to ensure this map responsibly incorporates ideas from both Democrats and Republicans,” said Redistricting Committee member Rep. B.J. Nikkel, R-Loveland.  “It is our hope that Democrats will work across the aisle and join us to pass a map this session.  Colorado cannot afford to spend $200,000 on a special session, or millions of dollars on court battles.”       

Most importantly, the Republicans said the map would protect Colorado’s diverse geographic and cultural communities.

“The people of Colorado want a map that ensures they have a voice in Washington, D.C.” said Redistricting Committee member Rep. Don Coram, R-Montrose.  “The Colorado Communities Map does this by keeping the Western Slope whole and respecting the Eastern Plains.  This map also keeps El Paso County whole in order to protect the voice of our military members and their families."

Speaker of the House Frank McNulty, R-Highlands Ranch, added, “This map is fair by any definition.  It is my hope that our friends on the other side of the aisle will join us in supporting this map because it is good for all Coloradans.”    

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