As the Republican candidate for Colorado House District 26, I’ve spent time listening to residents in Meeker, Rangely, and throughout Rio Blanco County. This is hardworking, energy-driven country, and we need a strong voice in Denver to defend our rural values and way of life.
Oil and gas is the backbone of our economy. The energy industry drives roughly 68% of economic output in Rio Blanco County and supports high-paying jobs with average salaries near $134,000 — far above the county average. Production from the Rangely oil field and other areas provides critical tax revenue that funds our schools, roads, and essential services. Excessive regulations and mandates from Denver continue to threaten production and local jobs.
Action steps I will take: I will fight against burdensome state regulations and unrealistic mandates that harm oil and gas development. I will support an all-of-the-above energy strategy that protects reliable traditional energy sources and keeps good-paying jobs in Rio Blanco County.
Economic stability is essential for our future. As energy revenues face pressure, we must protect our core industries while pursuing responsible diversification that builds on — rather than replaces — our strengths in energy and agriculture.
Action steps I will take: I will work to safeguard existing energy jobs and infrastructure while supporting practical economic development that strengthens local businesses, ranching, and communities without sacrificing what already works.
Property taxes and cost of living hit rural families hard. With energy revenues under pressure, any new state taxes or fees make it even tougher for working families in Meeker and Rangely to get by. Denver politicians continue creating new fees that bypass Colorado’s Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR).
Action steps I will take: I will strongly defend TABOR, oppose any efforts to weaken or repeal it, and fight for fiscal responsibility so Rio Blanco County families are protected from unnecessary tax increases and receive real value from state government.
Water rights and agriculture must be safeguarded. Rio Blanco County ranchers and farmers depend on reliable water from the White River and Colorado River Basin. Increasing pressure from Front Range diversions, downstream demands, and aridification threaten our agricultural heritage and rural economy.
Action steps I will take: I will defend Colorado’s prior appropriation doctrine (“first in time, first in right”) and fight against water transfers or reductions that harm Rio Blanco County’s ranchers, farmers, and communities. I will push for fair treatment of Western Slope water users in all state decisions.
Rio Blanco County represents the best of Western Colorado — strong families, responsible energy development, agricultural roots, and deep respect for our land and resources. We deserve a representative in Denver who will put rural Colorado first — not distant political agendas.
If you live in Rio Blanco County, I want to hear from you. Let’s work together to keep our communities strong and prosperous.
James Kellogg – Republican Candidate for Colorado House District 26
