Why the Colorado Recalls Matter

First Read: “While it’s always prudent to not overstate the results of a special election — especially one in which Colorado voters weren’t allowed to vote by mail (as many of them usually do) and especially with control in the state Senate not changing hands — the political situation there is one to watch over the next year. Since 2004, no state has become more Democratic-leaning than Colorado: Obama won twice there; Democrats have won every U.S. Senate and gubernatorial contest; and Dems control the legislature. But the recall results will invigorate Colorado Republicans (as well as pro-gun groups and voters). The question is if a vulnerable Gov. John Hickenlooper (D) can win re-election in 2014, and if Sen. Mark Udall (D-CO) can still cruise to victory next year. If the answer to these questions is “no,” then the Democrats’ streak in Colorado will come to an end. And that would be a big deal.”