Crime, Another Social Issue Democrats Are Struggling With

Crime, especially in big cities, has risen and is the third most important worry for Americans, with more than half (53%) saying they are “greatly worried” about it (Gallup, March 2022). Other polls show it’s the second highest concern after inflation for voters, and Republicans now have a 15-point advantage over Democrats on the issue (Fox, Jan. 2022).

Colorado is engaged in a high-profile legislative struggle to deal with a crime surge, which Republicans blame on Democrats’ recent criminal justice reform measures related to Fentanyl. Democratic progressives are resisting any changes that would recriminalize possession, especially of smaller amounts. Colorado Democrats join big city mayors, DAs and governors struggling with high crime rates and recent post George Floyd (2020) reforms.