Denver mayor shifts city's power dynamic
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Denver Mayor Mike Johnston speaks during a news briefing in September 2023. Photo: Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post via Getty Images
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has issued as many policy vetoes in just 18 months as his predecessor did in 12 years.
Why it matters: Johnston's overrulings raise questions about the state of cohesion and communication between Denver's chief policymakers and its chief executive.
Driving the news: On Tuesday, Johnston vetoed a City Council bill passed just one day earlier that sought to expand needle exchange programs.
- It marked his second veto since taking office in July 2023. His first was over a bill banning homeless encampment sweeps during freezing temperatures.
Context: Former Mayor Michael Hancock, by comparison, vetoed two policy measures during his three-term tenure, one on flavored tobacco and another on lifting a city ban on pit bulls.
The big picture: Johnston's actions reflect his "confidence and assertiveness" as mayor and City Council's leftward shift, independent political columnist Eric Sondermann told Axios Denver.
- "There is more need for the mayor to serve as a counter-balance than was often the case in times past," Sondermann said.
- Today we're also seeing a "much more legislatively active council," Councilmember Jamie Torres added.
What they're saying: Councilmember Sarah Parady, who co-sponsored both vetoed bills, said those measures had broad backing beyond the council's progressive bloc.
- This isn't just about policy: "It's much more about the mayor vs. council," Parady told Axios, while Councilmember Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez criticized Johnston's latest veto as a "political decision."
The other side: In a statement to Axios Denver, Johnston's office downplayed any tension, calling his relationship with the council "strong and productive" and emphasizing his commitment to collaboration.
- Longtime Councilmember Kevin Flynn supported that view, describing Johnston as "much more collaborative" than past mayors. Johnston is "charting a new path," said Flynn, who notably endorsed Johnston's opponent in the 2023 mayoral race.
The bottom line: While Johnston signs most council-approved bills, his willingness to veto contentious measures highlights a decisive leadership style that could redefine power dynamics at city hall for years to come.
- "I don't think these [vetoes] indicate difficulty in relationships, but our independent thinkers and some of the way policy and sentiment can shift over time," Torres said.