We asked a cornucopia of the state’s elected officials, candidates and politicos to share what they’re thankful for as Coloradans prepared to celebrate Thanksgiving.

Here’s what they told us:

U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper, D-Colo.: “I’m grateful especially for my family, of course, and all of Team Hick who work so hard for Colorado and this country. I’m grateful to represent a state where the majesty of our landscapes is exceeded by the grit and passion of our people, who have come from everywhere to create their lives here.”

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette, D-Denver: “This year, it is hard to craft a Thanksgiving message. There is so much tragedy in the world – instability, war, and inhumanity. In Washington, chaos has reigned. But when I take the time to reflect, there are blessings all around. I am grateful for my family and friends who hold me in their love and for my new canine companion Fiona who brings sunshine to my world every day.”

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Rifle: “During this Thanksgiving season, we have an opportunity to reset and refocus. We can position ourselves in a place of grace simply by having an attitude of gratitude and joy. For me, joy is not just a suggestion, joy is our battle plan! The joy of the Lord is our strength: every good and perfect gift comes from above, and our faith is made effective by acknowledging this.

“I am grateful for the never-ending love of God, my family, and the people of Colorado who inspire me every single day. May you and your loved ones have a blessed Thanksgiving!”

U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn, R-Colorado Springs: “As we gather with family and loved ones this Thanksgiving, let us pause to thank God for his many blessings. This year and always, I am thankful for my wonderful family – my wife, our children, and many grandchildren – and our great nation. We experience great freedoms in America because of the sacrifice of our armed forces, and I am grateful for their service. Happy thanksgiving and God bless our service men and women, veterans, first responders, and the residents of Colorado’s Fifth Congressional District.”

U.S. Rep. Jason Crow, D-Aurora: “I’m thankful for the chance to mix up my favorite holiday cocktail that I’ve been looking forward to since last season, play Wham!’s ‘Last Christmas’ (my holiday favorite), and my new puffin socks!

“On a more serious note, I’m incredibly thankful for my two wonderful kids, loving friends, and the honor to serve Colorado’s 6th every day in Congress. Life has been too kind to me. Happy Thanksgiving, Colorado.”

U.S. Rep. Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood: “I am thankful this week to be home with my family and in the state I love. It is such an honor to represent our community in Washington and I’m immeasurably grateful to the people who trusted me to do so, as well as my incredible team who make this job possible.

“I am especially thankful to my husband who supports me in this difficult journey of public service and all that comes with it. But nothing brings more gratitude than being a mom to the most loving little boy who brings deeper meaning to everything I do.”

U.S. Rep. Yadira Caraveo, D-Thornton: “This Thanksgiving, I’m thankful for my parents and the sacrifices they made for their family. They came to a country they were completely unfamiliar with and made big sacrifices for the family they would one day have. My dad worked incredibly hard in construction for a long time, and my mom spent every moment of her existence taking care of her kids. Their hard work led to our success, allowing me to go from the daughter of immigrants working in construction to a Member of Congress in just one generation. So, it’s important to remember everybody that makes up this country as we give thanks for what it has given us all.”

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis: “This year I’m thankful for my family – Marlon, the kids, and Gia, my parents, my siblings – as well as the people of Colorado. Being Governor of this state is an honor, and it’s our people that make our state a great place to live. As you head into Thanksgiving with your families, a holiday known for family conversations that can sometimes turn political, keep an open mind and engage with family members or friends who you might disagree with. By asking more questions we can better understand one another, have healthier conversations, and focus on what unites us. Have a happy Thanksgiving!”

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser: “This Thanksgiving, as we gather together, we can recognize that all light is precious, particularly during dark times. In Colorado, we can be thankful for living in a community where we support one another living as our best authentic selves and all do our part to bring light into the world.”

Colorado State Treasurer Dave Young: “I’m so thankful for my family and friends. I’m also thankful for the great professionals in the Colorado Department of the Treasury I have the honor of working with every day. I’m also thankful to live in the best state in America – Colorado!”

Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold: “I have a lot to be thankful for this year. I’m thankful for my family and friends. I am thankful that I can call Colorado home, and that Colorado continues to be a place where people’s fundamental rights are enshrined and respected. And I am thankful to all of Colorado’s election workers, who ensure that we are the best state in the nation in which to vote.”

Justice Richard L. Gabriel of the Colorado Supreme Court: “I am thankful for my wonderful immediate and extended family, including my new son?in?law and a new grandnephew; for the chance to live, work, and play in this truly beautiful place; for my many dear friends and colleagues both in and outside the legal field; for good health; and for the honor and privilege of serving the people of Colorado in what is an often challenging but most rewarding job.”

Justice Carlos Samour of the Colorado Supreme Court: “I am grateful for my significant other, parents, siblings, extended family, and Buttons & Zipper. Likewise, I am grateful I get to work with outstanding court staff, probation officers and staff, and judicial officers who, every day, dare greatly to provide equal access to justice, contribute to public safety, and strengthen the rule of law across Colorado. Given my family’s experience fleeing from El Salvador, I know firsthand the importance of our unwavering commitment to judicial honesty, diligence, and accountability.”

Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman: “I’m so grateful for Thanksgiving. It’s always been such a special time in my life to spend with family members, especially when I was growing up in Aurora and having Thanksgiving with my parents, brothers, and sisters. I only missed spending Thanksgiving with my family when I was in the military and deployed overseas. On spending Thanksgiving while deployed, whether it was my time in the Army or in the Marine Corps, the cooks always went out of their way to make sure that we had a special meal wherever we were and I’m grateful for those times as well.”

CU Regent At-Large Lesley Smith: “With our kids grown up and on their own, I’m always thankful when our family can be together for Thanksgiving. I’m particularly thankful this year because all four of us will be with our German family over Christmas and New Year’s. A Ukrainian family has been living with my sister-in-law and will join us. I’ll be thankful that, despite the differences we may have in our own country, we can count our blessings in so many ways.”

House Minority Leader Mike Lynch, R-Loveland: “I have been blessed with so many treasures in my life –  a loving wife, amazing children, and of course, good health. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve my community and Colorado. I never forget the trust placed in me to serve in the People’s House. And while the world is dangerous, I am thankful for the brave men and women who sacrifice to protect us. I pray daily for their safe return to their families. May we all be reminded of the power of giving and the importance of coming together. I wish everyone a blessed Thanksgiving.”

Colorado Republican Party Chairman Dave Williams: “Because of my faith in Jesus Christ, I’m most grateful for family, friends, and the opportunity to sacrifice for them. ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ is my favorite holiday movie because its main message is that fulfillment in life is gained through sacrificial service to others instead of personally achieving a dream or goal. Thanksgiving, heading into Christmas, reminds me that our purpose is about others and that ‘no man is a failure who has friends.'”

Colorado Democratic Party Chairman Shad Murib: “I’m thankful for every election official who makes sure that Colorado has safe and secure elections. I’m thankful for every volunteer who worked to elect Democrats to local offices – we had a great year winning elections everywhere from rural Prowers, Montezuma, and Alamosa, to Arapahoe, Larimer, and Broomfield on the Front Range. I’m thankful for everyone who supports Colorado agriculture that feeds the world. I’m thankful for every service member and veteran who sacrificed their Thanksgiving so we can celebrate ours. Finally, I’m thankful for my wife, Kerry Donovan – marrying her is my greatest trick. Happy Thanksgiving, Colorado!”

Republican National Committeeman Randy Corporon: “I am grateful that patriots all across the country and around the world have stood resolutely together insisting that we get to the truth about the Chinese Communist Party Wuhan Virus, the forced vaccinations, their serious consequences, the 2020 and subsequent elections, and the governmental and corrupt, coordinated, Democrat-controlled, media machine lies about January 6th. On a personal note, I am grateful that God is still in control and that my children & grandchildren are strong, healthy, and are continuing to find ways to be happy in spite of the unexpected loss of my beloved Dreamgirl, wife, Mom and Coco, Tana, this summer.”

Adam Frisch, Democratic candidate in the 3rd CD: “As I gather with my family – a rare event given I am on the road in our district 25 days a month – I need to thank my kids and especially Katy for their support. More importantly, our entire family is so thankful for the men and women in our armed services and their families who put so much on the line in protecting our great nation. Looking forward, I am hoping to be thankful for people being less exhausted and cynical of our politics in days to come.”

Jeff Hurd, Republican candidate in the 3rd CD: “This candidate’s thankful for: A wife of 18 years, Barbora, who believes in Colorado and in the great adventure of family life. My girls’ traveling music playlist (dad now knows Taylor Swift!). Pueblo chile. Highway 550 views. Veteran sacrifices that never make the news. Coffee. Late-night pie with my oldest in Cortez. Amazing CD3 residents. Donations from teachers I had growing up in Grand Junction. More coffee. Each day being the best day to start again. Finally, I’m thankful my life doesn’t depend on good cell service across CD3!”

Grand Junction Mayor Anna Stout, Democratic candidate in the 3rd CD: “I am humbled by the compassion of my team at Roice-Hurst Humane Society; by the dedication of the City of Grand Junction’s staff; by the Foundation for Cultural Exchange board of directors, who make a better life possible for deserving students in our Salvadoran sister city; for the trust of my campaign team; and, for countless other teams I have the privilege of serving with.

“I am grateful for reconciliation, common ground, and laughter; for living in a breathtakingly beautiful corner of this world, the companionship of pets, new beginnings, progress, and the hope that ultimately, things will be okay.”

James Wiley, Libertarian candidate in the 3rd CD: “I am most thankful for the un-wasting faithfulness of God’s eternal promise of Peace in heaven and on earth. Sustained by this promise, our hope burns bright for the uniting of humanity and the secession of war and barbarism. I am most grateful for the power to love one’s enemies and how by it our hope for Peace will bear fruit.”

Weld County Commissioner Scott James, Republican candidate in the 8th CD: “I’m thankful for my God, who grants me grace, mercy, and unalienable rights. I’m thankful for my family, who offer me never ending love and support. I’m thankful for my community, my state, and my country. I am thankful for the folks who I unwaveringly love and serve. I’m thankful for the brave women and men who protect and serve, and I am eternally grateful for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and for the families who dearly miss them. I am thankful for this opportunity to wish you and your family joy and happiness this and every holiday season.”

State Rep. Gabe Evans, R-Fort Lupton, Republican candidate in the 8th CD: “Faith and family top my list of things for which to give thanks, of course. But I also give thanks for spirited debate. Even in this era of seemingly intense bitterness and conflict across the nation, we still enjoy the freedom to peacefully make our case to the voters. That was the case in Colorado in 2023, when minority Republicans organized to defeat Prop HH. Having deployed to a combat zone, I know that freedom of speech and religion are precious rights not enjoyed by all. May we never allow intolerance of dissent to happen in America. Defend our freedoms!”

State Rep. Richard Holtorf, R-Akron, a candidate in the 4th CD: “We have the ability to stand up for our God-given constitutional rights in this country, and that has not been taken away by any form of tyrannical government. We have to fight for and stand up for the people that the Constitution is sworn to protect, because it’s about ‘We the people,’ not ‘We the elitists,’ or ‘We the oligarchs,’ or ‘We the dictators.’ That’s what I’m thankful for. I still believe in it, I haven’t given up.

State Sen. Barb Kirkmeyer, R-Brighton: “‘Give thanks in all circumstances,’ as the Bible declares. We’re called to have an attitude of gratitude! That’s easy to do when things are going well but tough during periods of trial. Remember that Abraham Lincoln created Thanksgiving Day in 1863, during the middle of the Civil War, at America’s darkest hour. Imagine how much better off America would be today if we could restore a Lincolnesque spirit of gratitude! So, today I give thanks for my many blessings, of course – family, friends, and freedom, for instance – but also for life’s challenges and my supposed public adversaries.”

Deborah Flora, a Republican candidate in the 4th CD: “Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of year, because it is the pause when each of us can reflect on our blessings. For me, it is never the material but instead the intangible for which I am most grateful … my wonderful husband of 23 years, our two beautiful children who are now young adults flourishing on their own paths, the amazing family and friends in our lives. I am thankful for inheriting a country that is founded on freedom and God who adds to all of these gifts, purpose, and peace. These are the gifts I wish everyone this Thanksgiving!”

Sara Loflin, ProgressNow Colorado executive director: “Of course, I am universally grateful for my family, community, and health. As a Coloradan, I’m grateful to live in a state where we protect bodily autonomy and workplace equity. I am thankful for the progressive legislators who just gave working families a tax break (HB 23B-1002). I was so thankful to lead ProgressNow Colorado, this year, as we celebrated our 20th Anniversary and Colorado’s political sea change. Lastly, I’m grateful for the privilege of serving my community as mayor pro tem of Erie and for our veterans and their families who steadfastly serve our country here and abroad.”

Taylor Rhodes, Rocky Mountain Gun Owners executive director: “While I am thankful for family, friends, church, and our Colorado way of life, my true thanks lies with the Second Amendment. Cue the Bruen decision, not just legal jargon, but a 4-ton wrecking ball joyfully swinging through the brittle structures of overzealous gun control-it’s like an early Thanksgiving! This ruling is a feast of reaffirmed rights, highlighting that our right to bear arms is an active slice of American freedom, not just a historical footnote. As we carve our Thanksgiving turkeys, let’s also be thankful for RMGO’s huge legal wins for gun rights. Cheers to freedom-pass the ammunition (and the sweet potato casserole)!”

Michael Fields, president of Advance Colorado Institute: “There is a lot to be thankful for this year.  First and foremost, our daughter, Kiana Kaitlyn Fields, was born last month. We are so happy to be raising our five kids here in Colorado. 

 “Regardless of current polarization in politics, I’m often reminded how many good people there are in the political/policy realm. I’m grateful to be able to work on issues that matter to people’s lives – and I also appreciate that Coloradans educate themselves about those issues. Thanksgiving is a great time to reflect on what we have in common instead of what drives us apart.”

Kristi Burton Brown, senior policy advisor at Advance Colorado: “Thanksgiving has always been a big milestone for my family – it’s the first holiday that came after each of my kids was born, and it was the first holiday we celebrated after my husband went into remission from cancer. This year, I’ve been reminded of gratefulness for all the small things, too – flowers in the yard, family dinners, stars in a clear night sky, and singing at church. Thanksgiving always reminds me that Hope is still alive and the best is yet to come.”

Skyler McKinley, regional director of public affairs for AAA and proprietor of Routt County’s Oak Creek Tavern: “As a public affairs professional by day and a bar owner by night, I’m especially thankful for two things in 2023: Special sessions rarely implicate AAA’s legislative portfolio, and the Wednesday before Thanksgiving – or ‘Drinksgiving’ – is one of the busiest bar nights of the year. Three cheers to everyone from all walks of life who bring so much meaning, purpose, and joy to these two parts of mine.”

Tobin Stone, communications manager at the Center for New Liberalism: “This year, I’m extraordinarily grateful for all of the pragmatic leaders who have worked to pursue bold solutions to Colorado’s housing shortage, including Governor Jared Polis, Mayor Mike Johnston, and all the state legislators and local elected officials that have supported pro-housing policies.”

Weld County Commissioner Lori Saine: “This Thanksgiving, I am most grateful for family and friends gathered around the table to break bread together in fellowship with the God of creation, who blesses us with everything we need. We have been blessed with an abundance of food and chairs at the table so if anyone in the Colorado Politics family is alone this holiday, come on over

“More and more, I’m grateful as a woman to be born in the United States of America and been able to speak politically without being physically killed. So many women across the world are denied that basic right.”

Jefferson County Commissioner Tracy Kraft-Tharp: “I’m grateful for the hard-working Jefferson County staff and my supportive husband.”

El Paso County Commissioner Holly Williams and her husband, former Colorado Springs City Councilman Wayne Williams: “We are thankful for our family and excited that we will all be together this Christmas. And we’re excited that our oldest son and his wonderful wife Purvi are moving to Colorado Springs where she will be running a dental practice near Boot Barn Hall.

“We’re grateful for so many that work to make our community better and have helped us along the way. And as we approach Christmas, we’re grateful for our Savior and the chance to celebrate once again through the ColoradoSpringsCreche.net exhibit Nov 30-Dec 2.”

Douglas County Commissioner George Teal: “I am grateful I get to live in the best place in America and work the best job in America for the best people in America.”

Boulder District Attorney Michael Dougherty: “On Thanksgiving, I will once again reflect on this wonderful life. I am thankful for many things. I am part of a great family and we live in a beautiful state. I love my work. I am grateful to be part of an outstanding and dedicated team at the District Attorney’s Office. There are difficult challenges and problems in our country and across the globe, so I am especially thankful for all those doing their best to help others and improve the lives around them.”

Alan Salazar, Denver Water CEO: “Looking back on 2023, I am thankful that the transition to a new Denver mayor was such a positive experience. It’s also been gratifying to see so many dear colleagues from the Hancock administration staying on to help the Johnston administration. And after more than 30 years of being active in Colorado politics at the federal, state and local level, I am thankful for the opportunity to lead a great organization (Denver Water) where a long view about our collective prosperity demands that politics be as functional as possible.”

Parker Mayor Jeff Toborg: “I am thankful for an amazing God, a wonderful family and a safe and thriving town.”

Laurel Imer, candidate for RNC committeewoman: “As I reflect on 2023, I am thankful for unconditional love. This year has been trying for many of us, and it is love that has carried us through. The unconditional love of our Savior, our families, and our friends. Those who choose to give unconditional love are treasured in this dark world. For this, I am grateful each and every day.”

Mario Nicolais, attorney: “While my waistline will be grateful that pumpkin pie, mashed potatoes, and turkey have zero calories on Thanksgiving Day, my true gratitude is reserved for the brave people who I have worked with over the past year to help defend our country and our democracy. Over the past few months I have worked with exceptional individuals – attorneys and plaintiffs – who were willing to take a stand against a president who engaged in an insurrection against our Constitution. It will only be because people like them, who put our country before their own personal safety or privacy, that future generations will enjoy the freedoms we celebrate today.”

Kelly Maher, political commentator: “In the current political environment, I am thankful for those who advocate for their beliefs in good faith. This landscape makes raising your hand to be considered to represent a community harder than ever, yet it’s vital work. In my personal life, our little urban farm and writing about it are constant sources of joy that offer a palate-cleanser from politics. A wet spring made our fields verdant, and I never tire of pulling jewel-toned eggs from the nesting boxes in the chicken coop. Fresh cheese from the goats reminds me of the magic in the mundane. Watching our sons do chores and learn about the natural world lets me see it anew through their eyes. I’m constantly reminded, though, of that quote by Pericles: ‘Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn’t mean politics won’t take an interest in you.’ So, this Thanksgiving, thank you to the good guys, those on either side of the aisle, who advocate well. We need you more than ever.”

Lois Landgraf, former state legislator, an organizer of Peak Republicans: “This Thanksgiving Day my husband, Jim, and I celebrate our 49th anniversary. I am most thankful that he married me 49 years ago. It is because of Jim I have so many incredible memories of past holidays with our five kids. I am thankful to Jim for being my mentor, my travel guide, my sounding board, my friend and the best husband and father anyone could ask for. He is facing serious health challenges so we don’t know what the next year will bring. But I will be thankful for every day we have together. I wish every one of you a holiday as blessed as mine have been.”

Elliot Hood, Democratic CU regent at-large candidate: “On Christmas morning last year, I lost my dad. Anyone who has lost a parent knows that it leaves a void you cannot fill. But it puts things into perspective, makes you appreciate all the good in your life, and, for me at least, motivates you to do more with the time that you have. This Thanksgiving, I’m excited to spend time with my family, maybe take a nap (if my kids allow it), and to see if I can remember how to smoke a rib roast. Wishing everyone a very happy holiday!”

Weston Imer, RNC’s Youth Advisory Council member: “I am thankful for the opportunities that I have been granted over the past year. Including appointment to the RNC youth advisory council and serving for 10 months as project manager for the Colorado GOP. I am also thankful to my family and friends, who supported me over the summer when far right conservatives tried to paint a picture of me that was not what I had ever intended it to be. I’m thankful for the lessons I’ve learned and the paths that I’ve walked down. I am excited to see what 2024 has in store.”