7-30-26 - 11am - Colorado Can Learn From New Mexico

This week's episode is a wake-up call for Colorado residents. The speaker takes a hard look at the state's economy and governance, comparing it to neighboring New Mexico, which has been thriving despite its reputation for being "crappy." The conversation centers around the oil and gas industry, which has been a major contributor to New Mexico's success, generating a whopping $75 billion sovereign wealth fund.The speaker argues that Colorado's approach to the industry has been misguided, with a series of wrong decisions made over the past two decades that have led to a $1.5 billion budget shortfall. In contrast, New Mexico has been welcoming responsible oil and gas development, taxing production at rates comparable to Texas or North Dakota, and stashing a significant portion of the revenue into a permanent trust fund. This has allowed them to fund essential services and build a cushion against economic downturns.The speaker highlights the importance of treating the oil and gas industry as a partner, rather than a villain, and notes that responsible energy production is a public good. They also emphasize the need for a Colorado governor and legislature willing to say so out loud and to prioritize building a permanent fund, even if it's a decade late.If you're interested in learning more about the lessons Colorado can learn from New Mexico's approach to the oil and gas industry, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's thought-provoking analysis and insights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.