Serving the People

Summary

The content provides an insider's look at the daily life and environment of Colorado's state legislators, challenging the common perception of politicians living luxuriously at taxpayers' expense.

Abstract

The article offers a glimpse into the realities of state-level politics in Colorado, contrasting the grandeur of the capital building with the less glamorous working conditions of its legislators. It reveals that, unlike their federal counterparts often depicted in popular media, state senators and representatives work in an environment without modern amenities like air conditioning, despite the building's impressive architecture and views of the Rocky Mountains. The article also humorously notes the informal trading of office furniture and the personal investment by legislators' families in improving their workspaces.

Opinions

The article implies that the public perception of politicians living comfortably on tax dollars may not apply to state legislators.
The working conditions for Colorado's state legislators are depicted as somewhat challenging, especially with the lack of air conditioning in extreme heat.
There is an underlying appreciation for the dedication of state legislators who endure less-than-ideal conditions and sometimes use personal funds to enhance their work environment.
The piece suggests a sense of camaraderie and humor among the legislators, as indicated by the anecdote about trading up office furniture and the Representative's wife redecorating his office.

A second job in politics

We recently got a behind-the-scenes tour of the Colorado capital building. How do you think of Senators and Representatives?

From TV shows like House of Cards or Madam Secretary, maybe that they’re living the good life on our taxes.

It’s not like that at the state level. Sure, the building is spectacular, but not air-conditioned. That’s a big problem when it’s over 100 degrees.

The senate chambers are on the third floor, with a panoramic view of the Rocky Mountains. The representatives meet in the basement.

A desk in the hallway bore a sign, “Property of the Governor’s Office. Do not take!”

Our Representative explained people were always looking to trade up their assigned furniture. When his wife saw the cast-offs in his office, she’d redecorated the whole thing on her own dime.