PRAGMATIC ISSUES

As Mayor Mike Johnston approaches the two-year mark of his tenure, a growing chorus of critics argues that his administration has fallen short on key issues, from homelessness, public drug use, constant construction, a new BRT project that was not only unnecessary it is in fact, putting businesses out of business along Colfax, housing to transparency and public trust. Despite entering office with ambitious goals and a reformist image, Johnston’s leadership has been marred by policy missteps, strained relationships, and declining public confidence and half truths.

Homelessness: Ambitious Promises, Troubling Execution

Johnston’s flagship initiative, “All In Mile High,” aimed to shelter 1,000 unhoused residents by the end of 2023. While the city met this numerical target, a subsequent audit revealed significant safety and oversight failures within the hastily established shelters, including inadequate staffing and a tragic double homicide. The audit also highlighted a lack of financial transparency, noting that the city has failed to track millions in spending on homeless encampment cleanups, despite agreeing to implement 36 recommendations from a 2023 report—only six of which have been fulfilled. The funds that have vanished remain at the forefront of voter minds, leaving many wondering if the mayor had squandered these funds or moved them to help his illegal immigration initiative. Although not often reported Denver is experiencing a drug crisis. Residents have taken to social media to blast the city over what many are calling the “drug zombie” crisis where there is a lack of enforcement, no rehab or help and no jail for those selling drugs on the street. Denver has become an open drug market under Mayor Johnston’s watch, which has only fed the homeless issues. Drugs are both openly sold and used in parking lots, on city streets, the sidewalk and alleyways.

Housing Affordability: Voter Rejection and Policy Gaps

In an effort to address Denver’s housing crisis, Johnston proposed a 0.5% sales tax increase to fund affordable housing initiatives. However, the plan faced skepticism from the City Council over concerns about regressive taxation and lack of clarity on fund allocation. Ultimately, voters rejected the measure, leaving the administration without a clear path to meet its goal of creating 4,500 affordable housing units annually. Denver voters far and wide have stated that it is not just affordable housing that is needed; it is also workforce housing, lower rents. Both Mayor Mike Johnston and Governor Jared Polis have made political moves that have let voters know that they want to detour driving in the city, they have no desire to lower rents and have not only encouraged but made possible a worsening drug problem rather than focus on affordable housing for all. There joint focus has been housing for the poor and the wealthy. Not the middle.

Immigration Policy: Sanctuary Stance Sparks Controversy

Johnston has positioned Denver as a sanctuary city, vocally opposing federal immigration enforcement under President Trump. While this stance aligns with progressive values, it has drawn criticism for straining city resources. Denver has spent over $78 million on migrant services, leading to cuts in other areas such as hiring freezes and reduced public services and now city employees will be furloughed over the next two years. A recent poll indicated that many voters feel the administration prioritizes immigrants over citizens, contributing to a sense of misallocated resources.

Transparency and Governance: Vetoes and Withheld Information

Johnston’s administration has faced scrutiny over transparency issues. Notably, the mayor refused to release anonymous surveys from Denver firefighters regarding departmental leadership, citing privilege concerns, despite earlier commitments to transparency . Additionally, Johnston has issued multiple policy vetoes within 18 months—matching the total number issued by his predecessor over 12 years—raising questions about his collaborative approach with the City Council.

Public Sentiment: Declining Approval and Calls for Change

Public approval of Johnston has waned, with a recent poll showing only 43% of voters approving of his performance, down from 55% at the time of his election. Furthermore, 55% of respondents believe Denver is on the wrong track, citing concerns over homelessness, crime, and resource allocation . Progressive groups have also given Johnston failing grades on issues such as leadership culture, gentrification, and public safety.

Mayor Mike Johnston’s tenure has been characterized by ambitious goals undermined by executional shortcomings and eroding public trust. As Denver continues to grapple with complex challenges, many residents and stakeholders are calling for a reassessment of leadership and a renewed focus on effective, transparent governance.

Marie Mendola
https://crimeshop.org
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