For Jared Polis, the Governor of Colorado, family life and public service are deeply intertwined. Alongside his husband, Marlon Reis, Polis navigates the responsibilities of governance with a personal touch, often involving their children, Caspian and Cora, in official duties. A memorable instance is the family’s participation in the state’s annual turkey pardon—a tradition that not only brings joy to their home but also underscores their commitment to animal welfare, a cause close to Reis’s heart.
The couple, who have been together for nearly two decades and solidified their union in a landmark marriage in 2021, serve as a testament to progress. Their journey from meeting online to becoming the first same-sex couple to marry while one partner is a sitting governor reflects both personal happiness and political significance. Their everyday moments, from cooking meals together to engaging in family game nights, paint a picture of domestic bliss that is both ordinary and extraordinary given the public roles they inhabit.
Championing LGBTQ+ Rights in a Time of Division
However, beneath the surface of family life, Polis harbors concerns about the political landscape and its impact on the LGBTQ+ community. He highlights the targeting of LGBTQ+ individuals by certain political figures for partisan advantage, expressing disappointment in the use of such tactics. Polis’s worry is not just for his own family but for the broader LGBTQ+ community, which faces legislative and social challenges across the country.
Yet, there is a beacon of hope in the form of allies within the political sphere. Polis cites President Biden’s unwavering support for LGBTQ+ rights, recalling his pivotal role in advancing same-sex marriage during the Obama administration. The Governor’s call to action is clear: the re-election of allies like Biden is crucial for safeguarding the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ Americans against the backdrop of potential Supreme Court challenges and state-level threats.
A Family’s Vision for the Future
At its core, the story of Jared Polis and Marlon Reis is one of love, advocacy, and leadership. It’s a narrative that blends the personal with the political, showcasing how family values can inform and enrich public service. As Polis continues to navigate the challenges of governance, his family remains a source of strength and inspiration—a reminder of the stakes involved in the fight for equality and the importance of creating a more inclusive world for all.
