Power Play: When Democrats Side with MAGA

In a surprising twist, two Democrats on the University of Colorado Board of Regents have decided to hand over leadership to a Republican. This move raises questions about their commitment to the values they were elected to uphold. In 2020, Colorado voters made a clear choice. They elected a Democratic majority to the CU Board of Regents, expecting leadership that reflects Colorado's values: transparency, inclusion, and accountability. But now, Regent Callie Rennison has thrown a wrench in that plan. Rennison sent an email to the entire board, announcing that she would support Republican Ken Montera for chair and herself for vice chair. This means that even though Democrats hold the majority, the board's leadership would be in Republican hands. Montera represents a district known for its extreme MAGA views. He has never spoken out against the MAGA movement or its hostility towards diversity, equity, and inclusion. This is concerning, especially since Colorado's Latino students make up the largest demographic under 22, and two CU campuses are designated as Hispanic Serving Institutions.Rennison's decision is even more puzzling because she is a lame duck regent, not seeking reelection. This means she has no electoral accountability, making her actions seem reckless. Leadership without accountability is not stewardship. It is an abuse of power. Since this alliance took shape, the board has become dysfunctional. Trust has eroded, and outrage has spread. Students, faculty, and communities of color have watched as board leadership prioritizes control over credibility. The Black community and the Colorado Democratic Party have responded with anger. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser has stated that the regents' actions violated the First Amendment rights of a Black regent, attempting to silence the voice of the voters in her district. This is not just a technical disagreement or a partisan dispute. It is a constitutional violation. It is no different in substance from the retaliation now aimed at Senator Mark Kelly for exercising his right to speak freely and tell the truth. The question remains: Why would Democrats side with MAGA? The answer may lie in a desire for personal power over public trust. But history will remember this moment, not for who held the gavel, but for who broke faith with the public.