Colorado's Last State of the State: What Jared Polis Revealed Will SHOCK You!

In his final State of the State address, delivered on January 15, 2026, at the Colorado State Capitol, Governor Jared Polis reflected on his seven-year tenure with a mix of pride and contemplation, as he outlined both his administration's achievements and the challenges that lie ahead.

The address lasted nearly an hour and a half, during which Polis highlighted key milestones, including the introduction of free preschool and full-day kindergarten, efforts to improve housing availability, and initiatives that have significantly reduced pollution levels. "Seven years ago, some -- there's skeptics out there -- thought my bold goals were farfetched," he noted, suggesting that the progress made would have once seemed ambitious to many.

However, Polis didn't shy away from acknowledging the unprecedented hurdles his administration faced: the COVID-19 pandemic, devastating wildfires that ravaged parts of the state, and four mass shootings. "COVID was unlike anything we've faced before," he stated, underscoring the complex challenges that demanded collaborative solutions. He asserted that his policies have saved Coloradans nearly $3 billion on healthcare and contributed to a significant increase in renewable energy, with a reported 75% more renewable energy produced during his time in office. Additionally, the expansion of Colorado's parks and wildlife areas by over 90,000 acres was highlighted as a testament to his commitment to environmental conservation.

In a conversation following the address, Polis addressed a recent poll indicating that a majority of Coloradans feel the state is headed in the wrong direction. He attributed some of this sentiment to the Trump administration, which he argued has created feelings of fear and uncertainty among residents. "I think there is a lot of the frustration is about national actions for sure," he said, reflecting a straightforward acknowledgment of external factors affecting local sentiment.

Nevertheless, not all Coloradans share this perspective. Some rural residents express discontent with the Polis administration, feeling that their needs have been overlooked. Critics pointed out the governor's tendency to reference pop culture, such as mentioning Taylor Swift, rather than addressing critical issues like agriculture, which is vital to many rural communities. In response, Polis emphasized his passion for agriculture, stating, "It's something I've participated in. I've produced alfalfa for feed in the past. It's an area I plan to be continued active in the future."

Despite his accomplishments, Polis acknowledged the lengthy to-do list that remains. He expressed a desire to reform land use laws to facilitate affordable housing development, although this initiative faces legal challenges related to local control. Additionally, he aims to lower income taxes, make property and car insurance more affordable, and outlaw puppy mills.

Critics, including Republican state Senator Barb Kirkmeyer, who is running for governor, described the address as filled with "platitudes." Kirkmeyer argued that the state has become less affordable since Polis took office, bringing attention to a $1 billion structural deficit that begins each budget year. "If things are so great, how the heck did we end up in structural deficit?" she questioned, suggesting that the governor has failed to deliver on his promises.

As he concluded his final address, Polis reiterated his commitment to unity, stating, "Since day one, as you know, I've worked to build a Colorado for all." He emphasized values of kindness and community, declaring, "The State of our state is strong, resilient, loving, kind, innovative, free and ever bright with the promise of a Colorado for all."

As Governor Polis prepares to exit office, his legacy remains a subject of debate among Coloradans. While he points to significant achievements and progress, critics question whether the state is truly on the right path. Ultimately, the governor's reflections may provide a snapshot of a complex administration navigating both triumphs and tribulations in the heart of the American West.