Why are Ski Resort Towns like Aspen, Telluride, and Jackson Hole So Liberal?

This is akin to asking why cosmopolitan coastal cities like New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and even Chicago tend to be more liberal. In reality, almost every city outside of the Deep South is leaning liberal.

Why Economic Wealth Leads to Liberal Tendencies

These urban centers, including Aspen, Vail, and Jackson Hole, are all driven by economic wealth. They all have strong liberal leanings, much like coastal cities. The same can be said for places like Aspen, Vail, Jackson, and Truckee. Wealth is often a driving force behind political leanings and cultural environments.

My family has resided in one of these towns for over 60 years, moving there just after the Colorado coal mining industry collapsed, leaving these areas virtually ghost towns. Before the ski industry took over, these regions were in dire straits.

Political Inclinations and their Impact on Tourism and Environment

Republican policies typically pose a significant threat to ski towns. They advocate for deregulation and opening up new public land for mining, as well as unrestricted growth and land sales in scenic areas. Contrast the current conditions of Leadville, a town heavily impacted by modern mining, with Telluride, and you see stark differences. Leadville looks post-apocalyptic in comparison, while Telluride maintains its charm. Deregulation and Republican policies are a direct threat to the tourism and environmental quality that these ski towns depend on.

While some residents, particularly ranchers and former miners, lean towards conservative values, the overall community tends to protect the unique character of these areas. This is why these towns have managed to maintain their liberalism despite the presence of a transient population of ski workers.

Ownership of Properties and Economic Dynamics

It's crucial to consider who owns the properties in these ski towns. Wealth is the most significant factor. Skiing isn't a sport for the poor, and the cultural and community dynamics of the ski industry, particularly as a workplace for foreign nationals, greatly contribute to the liberal leanings in these towns.

In addition, the ski area workers, who are often transient, give the impression of a liberal community. However, the native residents who work as ranchers or miners tend to be more conservative. This transient nature of the workforce can lead to the appearance of progressive city laws, such as growth control measures aimed at environmental protection. These laws are designed to preserve the original, small-town way of life.

Conclusion

The political leanings of ski resort towns like Aspen, Telluride, and Jackson Hole are largely influenced by economic wealth, cultural dynamics, and the transient nature of the workforce. These towns have managed to maintain a strong liberal stance despite conservative leanings in certain groups. The local community's efforts to protect the unique character of these areas contribute to their overall liberalism.