Poll: Economic inequality tops Colorado women voters' concerns ahead of midterms

A survey of 725 Colorado women, conducted by The Women’s Foundation of Colorado and Aspect Strategies between April 27 and May 4, found economic inequality and rising costs dominate their concerns ahead of the midterm elections. Sixty-three percent of respondents said they would be more likely to support candidates prioritizing gender equality and opportunity, with 84% reporting that living expenses outpace their income. Nearly half have cut retirement savings or used credit for basic needs, while 41% delayed medical care due to cost. Johnitta Medina, owner of a vegan soul food business, highlighted the financial strain, noting price fluctuations for essentials like cauliflower. Judith Alvarez, a Glenwood Springs woman working two jobs, skipped medical treatment for a growing uterine fibroma, citing the $60,000 estimated cost. The survey also revealed wage gaps: Colorado women earn 81 cents for every dollar men earn, with median incomes of $62,000 for white women, $47,000 for Black women, and $43,000 for Latinas. The Women’s Foundation of Colorado emphasized structural barriers to financial security, safety, and healthcare, calling the challenges ‘harder to clear.’ The poll, with a 3.6% margin of error, underscores women’s financial instability, as 59% fear struggling to cover basic needs after an unexpected $500 expense. Over one-third have delayed bill payments in the past year. Rocky Mountain PBS, The Women’s Foundation of Colorado, and the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce will host a virtual forum on June 7, featuring candidate discussions based on the survey. Beth Hendrix of the League of Women Voters of Colorado noted women’s critical role as caregivers, reflecting their higher voter turnout rates. The findings align with broader economic pressures, positioning gender equity as a key midterm issue.