Big Money, Local Ballots: Who’s Paying for Your Signature in Aurora?
If you’ve been stopped outside the Aurora Municipal Center, King Soopers on Hampden, or the Southlands parking lot lately by someone with a clipboard asking, “Do you have a minute for Colorado?”—you’re not alone. And chances are, the person asking didn’t just wake up passionate about the issue. They’re likely getting paid.
This cycle, deep-pocketed national groups and dark-money nonprofits have poured millions into Colorado’s petition economy to qualify measures for the November ballot. We’re talking six-figure checks to professional signature-gathering firms—many based out of state—who deploy teams across the Front Range, including heavy foot traffic spots right here in Aurora.
According to the latest Secretary of State filings, over $4.2 million has already been spent on petition circulation statewide. That’s not volunteer energy. That’s a budget line item.
Why does it matter for Aurora voters? Because the measures making the ballot—whether it’s property tax caps, abortion access, school choice, or primary election reform—will directly shape your tax bill, your kids’ schools, and your healthcare options. And the path they took to get there? Often paved by donors who don’t live in Ward IV, Ward VI, or anywhere near Colfax.
Before you sign, ask: “Who’s funding this?” The circulator must disclose if they’re paid. Scan the QR code on the petition. Look up the measure on Colorado’s TRACER database. Follow the money at Colorado Sun or Colorado Politics.
Your signature is leverage. Don’t sell it cheap.
Aurora votes smarter when we know who’s buying the pen.
