Scott Tipton Wins Straw Poll

Rep. Scott Tipton yesterday, won our online straw poll for the CD-3 Republican Primary. The winner will face Rep. John Salazar, who has not faced serious opposition, despite the district voting for McCain and Bush. The results follow...

Scott Tipton 109 (56%)

Martin Beeson 2 (1%)
Bob McConnell 82 (42%)
Votes: 193

Had this been the convention, both Tipton and McConnell would have made the ballot. Beeson showed a very weak showing, even lower then Jane Norton. Tipton ran last time against Salazar, but is up for a rematch in 2010 with more money and political capital.

You Can Still Stop The Health Care Bill

The Senate voted 60-39 to pass the $871billion bureaucracy health care bill, but it still can be stopped. After going into committee between the House and Senate, the bill they agree upon must go back to their chambers for a vote. The House voted 220 to 215, that is close enough that we can swing enough votes to actually stop it.

Votes we can get to stop the bill. WE ONLY NEED THREE

Anh Cao from Lousisiana (R-LA) only Republican to vote yes only because she's in a tough re-election and it was certain the HC bill would pass.

And 29 Blue Dogs that still don't know what it means to be a fiscal conservative.

John Salazar (D-CO) now that he seems to be facing tougher odds in 2010 then before.
Arcuri, Mike (NY-24)
Baca, Joe (CA-43)
Berry, Marion (AR-01)
Bishop, Sanford (GA-02)
Boswell, Leonard (IA-03)
Cardoza, Dennis (CA-18)
Carney, Christopher (PA-10)
Cooper, Jim (TN-05)
Costa, Jim (CA-20)
Cuellar, Henry (TX-28)
Dahlkemper, Kathy (PA-03)
Donnelly, Joe (IN-02)
Ellsworth, Brad (IN-08)
Giffords, Gabrielle (AZ-08)
Harman, Jane (CA-36)
Hill, Baron (IN-09)
Michaud, Mike (ME-02)
Mitchell, Harry (AZ-05)
Moore, Dennis (KS-03)
Murphy, Patrick (PA-08)
Pomeroy, Earl (ND)
Sanchez, Loretta (CA-47)
Schiff, Adam (CA-29)
Scott, David (GA-13)
Space, Zack (OH-18)
Thompson, Mike (CA-01)
Wilson, Charles (OH-06)

It still can be stopped

Democratic Congressman Switches Parties

Democratic Rep. Parker Griffith announced Tuesday that he's switching parties – saying he can no longer align himself “with a party that continues to pursue legislation that is bad for our country, hurts our economy and drives us further and further into debt.”

Full story here

One more point to prove the Health Care bill is THAT bad if an elected member of Congress swtiches parties because of it. An overwealming majority of Americans do not want a public option nor the bills "on the table" in Congress. Does that mean we don't want health carre reform? No, it just means America doesn't want crappy health care "reform" that will destroy the economy, increase our debt, send doctors out of the US and move the country toward government take-over of all private industry and personal lives.

Vision For The Future

I have decided to support Mike Cox for Governor of Michigan because of his clear vision for the future, proven experience, straight-shooting and liability.

Cox has released a 60 page blue print for the future of Michigan if he's elected Governor. I'm wondering why candidates don't do this. McInnis' "Platform for Prosperity" was only as general and vague as one can be. Ritter hasn't even done anything good for the state worthy of 60 pages let alone 6. Dan Maes has a few videos up. Cleve Tidwell is going into detail now with "Cleve Notes". Ken Buck has a few issues up. Jane Norton just does whatever her puppet masters say to do and Tom Wiens is still getting fully started.

So tell me when running for a major office like US Senate or Governor, that will effect the State and Nation greatly, why you wouldn't release a detailed plan of why you're running and what you want to do in office? Do the people not have a right to know what you're going to be doing with your elected office? And if you don't have a true detailed plan in your mind, then why are you running? Is it for the wrong reasons?

Anyway, that's why I'm supporting and contributing to The Mike Cox for Governor campaign.

More endorsements will come out soon, including from Colorado. With this endorsement will we start our "Vision For The Future" endorsement list, seen on the right side above "Election Odds".

Cleve Tidwell Distances Self From The Pack

Cleve Tidwell, candidate for US Senate, has come out with something even Jane Norton doesn't do, let alone Senator Bennet, updating the public about their stance on the issue of the day. The Tidwell campaign has started what they call "Cleve Notes", a weekly or daily update of the issue of the day that's being talked about and Cleve's stance on it. This guy must be on top of it to be whipping out answers that quickly of what's just being discussed, but I guess it can't be too hard when you're telling the truth of your thinking on the matter is it?

What don't the dems get?

What don't the democrats in Congress get that when they have to do closed door meetings, lie to the public, be discreet then the public probably doesn't want what they're trying to ram through Congress? You were suppose to have been elected to represent the people, remember them?

Update "Who You Support And Why"

Lots of early responses. E-mail us at coloradopoliticalnews@gmail.com to get your comment in our next update.

Dan Maes: Governor
"One of the poisons of politics as usual is that the best man for the job, may not get elected because someone dominant, poular, or paid for might be more electable. Such is the case if we are stupid enough to overlook the opportunity to make Dan Maes our next governor."
-Ed Westbrook Ignacio

Cleve Tidwell: Senate
"Cleve has more experience than anyone else running in business, the military and foreign policy. He will keep his promises and means what he says. Cleve is the only true conservative in the race and is running for the people."

Scott Tipton: CD-3
"The People's Choice. Scott has ALWAYS been a man "OF the people, BY the people and FOR the people" and he has the track record to show it."

"He is honest, trustworthy and truly a man of the people!"
-Sue and Buddy Valdez

"Anyone who has watched him in the Colorado Legislature knows, he has worked tirelessly for our state and is the Best Candidate."

"Will fight for Conservative ~ Republican Principles: Smaller Federal Government, FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY (and mean it), Support and Defend Our Constitution and its Individual & Property Rights. Scott will protect our Free Enterprise System of Capitalism and thwart-off Socialism's decay of this Country's Institutions and Moral Principles."



Bob McConnell: CD-3
"Not politics as usual and not the big Party supported candidate but our choice because he represents the people and not the party."

"He is a true patriot. I'm tired of the "Party" picks and I like the motto "Of the people, by the people and for the people." It's been along time since someone running for office cared for what the people really want."
-Bob

E-mail us at coloradopoliticalnews@gmail.com to get your comment in our next update.

Who do you support and why?

Send your comments or stories to coloradopoliticalnews@gmail.com and we will post the best for the candidates. Tell the rest of Colorado why your guy needs to be elected or re-elected in 2010

A Candidate We Should Listen To

Congressional Candidate Lieutenant Colonel Allen West

Dems Agree to Drop Public Option

WASHINGTON — Democratic senators say they have a tentative deal to drop a government-run insurance option from health care legislation. No further details were immediately available.

But liberals and moderates have been discussing an alternative, including a private insurance arrangement to be supervised by the federal agency that oversees the system through which lawmakers purchase coverage. Additionally, talks centered on opening up Medicare to uninsured Americans beginning at age 55, a significant expansion of the large government health care program that currently serves the over-65 population.

Sen. Tom Harkin of Iowa told reporters he didn't like the agreement but would support it to the hilt in an attempt to pass health care legislation.

Abortion funding is still in it though, with only a vote of 54-45 to make greater restrictions. If the Democrats did get rid of abortion in this health care bill, there may be possible bi-partisan support. Although having the government "supervise" private insurance, is not a welcoming though. The House Bill said that the government can ask insurance agencies hand over all contact information in the name of Health Care and they have to do it. Sounds like government take over to me.

Why Huckabee Won't Run

Maybe this is why Mike Huckabee is "less than likely" to run for president in 2012: The Seattle Times reports that a man wanted for four police murders in Washington state was granted clemency by then-Arkansas Gov. Huckabee nine years ago and released from prison.

Said the Arkansas prosecutor who objected at the time: "This is the day I've been dreading for a long time."

Ali Hasan To Run For Treasurer

We have sources suggesting Muhammad Ali Hasan, who ran unsuccessfully for HD-56 in 2008, is going to join the crowded race for State Treasurer.

So far JJ Ament and Walker Stapleton are running high profile campaigns. Matching, or raising more money than most Senate and Gubernatorial candidates. Current democrat Treasurer, Cary Kennedy, can't seem to match these guys and the funny thing is that they're BOTH Republicans. Two Republicans are both outraising the one incumbent democrat and that means the Republican donors are even split. Image what happens after August when the Republicans are united. Good bye Cary!

Is it too late for Hasan, maybe. However he does have ID and a lot of personal funds. This three-way race is worth watching.

Tom Wiens Comes On Top In Our Straw Poll

In 24 hours, the Wiens campaign passed out Cleve Tidwell into first place thanks to the many college students supporting Tom Wiens. Cleve Tidwell took a strong second followed by Ken Buck in a distant third. Jane Norton got virtually zero percent of the votes, showing her lack of grassroots. She may have Washington, the big donors and smart guys pulling her strings, but she doesn't have the grassroots, the volunteers, the core supporters the other campaigns have.

1) Tom Wiens 313 (48%)
2) Cleve Tidwell 239 (37%)
3) Ken Buck 67 (10%)
4) Jane Norton 23 (3%)
Total Votes: 642

From this poll is seems clear that online Wiens and Tidwell have the grassroots support, and Jane Norton, isn't well liked.

Our next poll is possibly even more important then this one, do you think that we should endorse in these races? Your imput is highly appreciated.

Bennet To Support Health Care Bill

Tomorrow I look forward to casting my vote in favor of health care reform.

Saturday's "cloture" vote is when the Senate decides whether to bring a health care reform bill including the public option to the Senate floor. This is a big step in bringing real change that Coloradans voted for last November*.

*Note: but voted AGAINST, THIS November since they've already screwed up so much in such little time.

Don't worry, we're already on it.

You can e-mail him here...which he won't read or call him at 202-224-5852...which word won't reach him or fax him at 202-228-5036 which gives you the option of flooding the machine at least.

Senate Primary Poll

With candidates in and candidates out it's time for a new Senate poll.

Vote now between Jane Norton, Ken Buck, Tom Wiens and Cleve Tidwell.

Last time was a close race between Cleve Tidwell who edged out Ryan Frazier by about 2% in a very popular poll with almost 1,200 votes. Will Cleve keep his crown this time or will a new winner emerge. Tom Wiens and Jane Norton have since entered the race with money and backing while Frazier has left to run against Perlmutter.

E-mail your friends to vote for your choice.

This poll will run for two weeks.

Continuing H.R. 3962

Only at page 30 and you can quote me, This is THE worst bill I have EVER seen.

For having 1900 pages, there is VERY few details about anything. You see lines saying "the date of how long bla bla bla will take place will be decided by whoever" or "Who is eligible will be decided by bla bla bla".


(1) PREMIUM.—The monthly premium charged
7 to eligible individuals for coverage under the pro8
gram—
9 (A) may vary by age so long as the ratio
10 of the highest such premium to the lowest such
11 premium does not exceed the ratio of 2 to 1;

12 (B) shall be set at a level that does not ex
13 ceed 125 percent of the prevailing standard rate
14 for comparable coverage in the individual mar
15 ket; and
16 (C) shall be adjusted for geographic vari
17 ation in costs.
18 Health insurance issuers shall provide such informa
19 tion as the Secretary may require to determine pre
20 vailing standard rates under this paragraph.

1) Wow. John can pay $5,000 while Joe pays $10,000 when they have the same everything except age.
2) If and when the government runs everyone else outa business they can make the costs as high as they want. Think if they put in a phony company charging a bazillion bucks, they can charge a 125% of that!!!
3) Define the regions!
4) There goes your privacy.

Then there's more about the "states". The bill address about who can be eligible for the "risk-pool" provided by the government. If you are a dependent of someone living in the 50 States or D.C. Wait, hold up...did we just include ALL territories as "States" and now we're back to 50???

I would bet my life that not more then a hand full of Congressperson, maybe not even that many, actually READ this stupid bill. Even for wanting the democrat's goals of government health care, universal access and such this is a stupid bill. A stupid bill even for democrats to vote for.

There are so many things wrong with it I will be able to type maybe 1 on the blog for every 30 I see, and that's a non-lawyer catching things. We need to seriously get these guys out of office.

Reading Through H.R 3962

I've decided to start reading this 1900 page bill, though I doubt I'll be finished anytime soon. I'll update you on some important things I find and some quotes from the bill.

One thing to note in the bill, Puerto Rico, Guam, other territories, etc are considered "states". Something I'm sure the Tom Tancredo, Ron Paul part of America will blow up on. More of the fact that not these guys get the government access and don't pay taxes, but that they are considered states.


TITLE I—IMMEDIATE REFORMS
22 SEC. 101. NATIONAL HIGH-RISK POOL PROGRAM.
23 (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Health and
24 Human Services (in this section referred to as the ‘‘Sec25
retary’’) shall establish a temporary national high-risk
1 pool program (in this section referred to as the ‘‘pro
2 gram’’) to provide health benefits to eligible individuals
3 during the period beginning on January 1, 2010, and, sub
4 ject to subsection (h)(3)(B), ending on the date on which
5 the Health Insurance Exchange is established.

Which means we'd have a program for people to be insured by the government without and end date. This is just the beginning of it. I suggest you read for yourself here http://docs.house.gov/rules/health/111_ahcaa.pdf

On page 17 at the moment.

Republican Senate Forum

North Suburban Republicans will host a Forum this Saturday, November 14.

Cleve Tidwell, Ken Buck, Tom Wiens, Gary Kennedy, Vincent Martinez and Steve Barton (yes we don't know who all these guys are too) will all be participating.

Jane Norton skips another sepaking engagement...again. Perhaps she's realized she's probably the worst public speaker running for office in Colorado at the moment.

Meeting Time and Place:
Westminster Rec Center, 10455 Sheridan Blvd in Westminers from 9:30-12:00 noon.

Come see your candidates speak about the issues all at once this Saturday.

Coffman Introduces Amendment to Put Congress on Public Option

(WASHINGTON D.C.) —Rep. Mike Coffman (R-CO)
has introduced an amendment to H.R. 3962, the latest version of Speaker
Pelosi’s government takeover of health care, to require all Members of
Congress and their dependents, as well as the President of the United States, to
enroll in the “public option” health care program. “You have to question why a
bill filled with 3,425 federal mandates for ordinary Americans does not mandate
Members of Congress to enroll in the public option,” Coffman said. “If
Congress is going to force this on the American people, they should use it
themselves.” During numerous town hall meetings, constituents of Rep. Coffman
called for all Members of Congress to be put on the public option health
plan. Coffman promised to introduce an amendment to any bill including a
public option plan, and this amendment directly reflects that promise. “An
amendment similar to mine was also offered in committee by my Republican
colleagues, but was voted down by Democrats on a party line vote,” Coffman
stated. “It is shameful that Democrats could say this is good for the American
people but not for us.” # # #

Let's see how many vote for the plan now

Jeffco Central Committee Meeting

Last night, the county gathered around 200 Republicans from Jefferson county and about to vote on by-laws and see the committee reports to the memebers. However more was going on then this, multiple candidates from all different races were there talking before and after to the active Republicans, trying to get them to support them. Here are some winners and losers

Gubernatorial Race:
Winers
Dan Maes: Delivered a solid speech proving his qualifications and business background is right for this executive office. From Evergreen, he was a clear favorite from the crowd. Keeping his message simple and his voice loud, he presented well.

Scott McInnis: After skipping so many meetings, debates and forums, he's made it someplace to talk next to the other candidates. He delivered a good speech about the importance of party unity and that the destruction there will be if there is a bitter primary, a hit on Penry.

Losers
Josh Penry: He's a good speaker and a good candidate, but he isn't made for this branch. He has shown leadership in the legislative branch, but has spent little time there. He talked about Colorado needing Ritter to go, but not so much Colorado needing him in.

Senatorial Race:
Winers
Cleve Tidwell: Those he only was able to talk for 15 seconds, he reminded the crowd what the dems are doing wrong and that he'll change all that around. He went around talking and introducing himself to many people. He does better one-on-one then on the stage so he picked up some points here.

Jane Norton: Why? Because she wasn't there! Ben Engen did a good, energetic speech on her behalf. Norton is just plain boring which is why she needs her staff to talk for her.

Losers
Ed Martinez: The crowd was laughing as he wouldn't stop speaking, running minutes overdue. I think we actually found a more boring voice then Jane Norton. He'll be lucky to win his own vote at the convention.

Ken Buck: His wife was there, talking too fast with too much information and didn't know his website at the end. Still loved by the crowd.

Did you guys know over night multiple candidates sprung up in CD-7. Now it's Frazier vs Campbell, Lakey, Segall, I'm sure there's more. Out of these guys the only winner was Lakey who gave an energetic loud speech. Frazier didn't show up and the rest were slow and boring. If we nominate Campbell he can't be any comericals though as he'll probably scare people away with his looks.

Ament Announces Jeffco Endorsements

Ament, raising almost $90,000 (close to Stapleton) is reeling out the endorsements. With money like this, endorsements like that, along with a good speaking ability Ament could easily be the next Treasurer.

The list of Jefferson County endorsements include:
- State Senator Mike Kopp
- State Representative Jim Kerr
- State Representative Ken Summers
- County Commissioner Kevin McCaskey
- Former U.S. Attorney Troy Eid
- Former State Representative Vicki Agler
- Former State Representative Rob Fairbank
- Former State Representative John & Jeannie Witwer
- Former State Representative Rob Witwer
- Former State Senator Sally Hopper
- Former State Senator Bill Schroeder
- Former State Representative and Ament County Co-Chair Matt Knoedler
- Ament County Co-Chair Libby Szabo
- Former Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry and Ament County Co-Chair Theron Bell

Reagan Roundup

FRUSTRATED? WANT YOUR VOICE HEARD?

WELL, YOU’RE INVITED TO THE
Adams County Republicans “Reagan Roundup”
BBQ Dinner + House & Senate Districts Carnival
Fri. Oct 23 5:30-10PM
Adams County Fairgrounds Waymire Dome
Tickets $15 Kids 10 & under free

Adams County Republicans are offering you a chance to have an old fashioned BBQ dinner and to meet, hear, and talk with your elected officials, party officers, and candidates about the reckless spending and dangerous government health care, carbon tax, stimulus spending and other proposals the Obama administration, congressional Democrats, Governor Ritter and the Democrat legislature are trying to ram through before anyone has a chance to read their bills.
With so many of us generally concerned about what the Democrats are doing to our country and Colorado, Adams County Republicans want you to have the opportunity to express your concerns and yet have a little fun before summer ends.

What to see and do at the "Reagan Roundup" BBQ Dinner and District Carnival
BBQ beef dinner with all the trimmings House and Senate Districts within the county and other candidates will have booths around the perimeter of the round building offering things to sell, literature, games to play, and a chance for you to meet the candidates, District Chairpersons, District Captains, and Precinct Committee People from your respective districts Carnival atmosphere for kids and families: old time cake-walk, beanbag toss, fishing booth (waterless), live band, dancing, and numerous activities throughout the building to inform and entertain Brief presentations from various candidates and officers Fun and interaction in a family social environment

A “HELP” booth if you need info on your precinct, House or Senate Dist., or have other questions
This is your chance to be heard and to see that the Republican Party is alive and well with solutions that make sense while encouraging smaller government, economic growth, individual opportunity and responsibility.If you agree that it’s time to stop this ‘steamroller of government control’ and want, instead, sensible solutions for America, then this is your opportunity to get started! Let’s work together on this!

For tickets and information: 303-452-2931 or rrroundupjw@aol.com
Or visit the AdCo website www.adamscountygop.com or the State Party website www.cologop.org

Ryan Frazier to Make Big Announcment

From his site...

Aurora, CO - Ryan Frazier, candidate for U.S. Senate, will provide
critical details about the future of his campaign during an
announcement to supporters. Frazier, who has been described as an atypical
Republican candidate and a rising star in the party, has attracted significant
grassroots support. Speculations have surfaced that Frazier may move his
race to run for Lt. Governor or for the U.S. House of Representatives in
District 7.

His words not mine. There's little doubt that Frazier is done with this Senate race, most likely because 1) it is crowded with high profile candidates 2) he isn't raising Norton and Buck money 3) he has a better shot elsewhere (at least in his eyes).

Frazier most likely will run against Ed Perlmutter for the 7th, one of the very few Republicans in the district that would have the grassroots, ID and at least a little money in the bank to take him out. If Frazier were to run for Lt. Governor, most likely the guy he's on the ticket with would be there with him. However, he could also run for Lt. Governor NOT on a ticket, run alone and try to win at the convention and primary against the Lt. Governor possible choices the current candidates would announce. Or Frazier could be the universal Lt. Governor pick where no one picks a running mate and it's just decided Frazier will be on the bottom no matter who wins.

Tomorrow will be exciting for the Frazier campaign and his supporters and Colorado may very well be shaken up...or it's something we don't expect at all.

Northern Suburban Republican Forum

Today I attened the Northern Suburban Republican Forum for the Gubernatorial candidates. Here are my remarks.

Driving to the Rec Center you can tell where it is. Dozens of McInnis and Penry signs are all over the place. You walk through the doors to be greated by Penry's people with stickers followed by Maes' and McInnis' people doing the same thing.

When the forum started Maes' supporters made more noise then Penry's. McInnis was not in attendence but sent a rep on his behalf.

After strong opening statements, all candidates pointing to their strengths, the questions begone.

Surprisingly there was very little difference in the candidate's views on the issues. The only differences were minor details and how they said phrases in all but a few issues like Eminent Domain (Pinon Canyon). McInnis was on the military's side, Penry on property rights side and Maes saying let's compromise.

When the forum finished I was even more undecided on whom to support then when I went in. All three campaigns made compelling arguments and statements. Here are some thoughts on what they said.

Maes: Reminded the audience that this is the EXECUTIVE branch, not anything else and he has 25 years as a business leader. He continued complimenting Penry's arguments and agreeing with him. He had well thought out statements and for being the new guy in politics, he sure knows a lot. He doesn't try to be or say something he's not. He did not try to hide the fact he didn't have a stance yet on Pinon Canyon because both sides had such strong arguments. Maes seemed like a solid rock guy who wouldn't be afraid to make tough decisions, make budget cuts and lay off government employees.

Penry: Won the energetic factor. He can talk a million miles and hour without you getting confused and being able to hear what he says. Penry pledged he would get on the ballot by assembly and wouldn't petition on if he didn't make it because he said the ones at the assembly are the core of the party, the volunteers and if you don't have them on your side then there must be something wrong with you, a bold move. Penry seemed to pretty much go hand and hand on most issues with Maes with minor differences. Penry however can only say he's been in the assembly for six years while Maes said it's about the executive branch and he has 25 years under his belt in that area. Penry no doubt though is was and is a leader in the Senate, fighting Bill Ritter and the democrat's crazy agendas from banning the death penalty (which we rarely use anyways) to raising taxes and creating new vehicle "fees" which he promised to repeal to repealing a spending limit amendment for Colorado.

"McInnis": For not being the candidate and trying to debate as him, John (his rep) did well. He didn't go into anything at all he did not know what McInnis thought 100% which was pretty minimal. When the question of fixing our education system in Colorado, seeing as we have horrible test scores this guy won the argument. Republicans tend to say "raise the standards, raise the standards, raise the standards" and that can work; except we need solutions to get the kids to actually MAKE the standards. He argued McInnis would get rid of ineffective, unqualified, unwilling and unwanting to work teachers. He argued getting the opportunities to every kid through vouchers and that not everyone was born to be a Doctor, and Engineer or a Lawyer and that we have to care about them too because they still matter deeply in our economy. His strength was his weakness though. John talked about McInnis' decades of service and work in government. Though experience is needed and wanted, don't we also want some new faces and new ideas here? John still made a completing argument for McInnis

Personally I think all three did so outstanding to the effect that I have absolutely no idea who I'll be supporting yet. However, whoever the nominee is, they will be a strong and powerful force so Bill Ritter better be ready to defend every single thing he's said and done in office because they can point out flaws and mistakes in almost everything he has done in office. You better be ready Mr. Governor because these Republicans aren't jokes.

Korkowski Barely In, Now Out

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KORKOWSKI WITHDRAWS FROM U.S. SENATE RACE

Crested Butte, CO - Luke Korkowski has withdrawn from
the U.S. Senate race,writing the following note to his
supporters:Friends,
Thank you to the freedom-loving people who have been so
encouraging to mycampaign for U.S. Senate. This experience has been wonderful,
hard,frustrating, exhilarating, challenging, and fun -- sometimes all at
once.
Unfortunately, it is time to call this campaign to a close and to wish
allthe best to the other Republicans in the race. We have some good and
decentfolks competing for the Senate position, and Colorado is lucky to have
sucha selection of choices. With your help, we'll see a solid conservative
takeoffice in January 2011, and I strongly encourage you to stay engaged in
therace and to support your favorite candidate.
As for me, while this is the
end of the Senate road, there are otherpossibilities out there I may pursue.
Each of us has the responsibility toact within our sphere of competence to
ensure that our country regains thefreedom we have lost. I will continue to do
my part, whatever that may be. Iencourage you to do yours as well.
Let us not
forget to adhere to some basic ideals and to insist that ourelected leaders do
so as well:
-Our federal officials must adhere to and be bound by the text of
theConstitution. When they don't we have a tyrannical government of men, notthe
rule of law.
-National governments exist to protect our rights to life,
liberty, andproperty. They have no other legitimate function.
-No sniveling.
Being free means taking responsibility. If you don't like howthings are, get up
and do something about it.
Thank you again for your support. Best of luck to
the remaining Senatecandidates. And stay tuned for the next chapter in our
struggle to be free!
Respectfully,Luke Korkowski
# # #

Ken Buck Interview

Ken Buck recently answered our questions about the campaign and the issues. Here's his responses.

1) Why do you think you can win this race and how?
The political environment in Colorado is changing, people are becoming more and more dissatisfied with the expansion of government in their lives and Republicans are starting to regain their brand. This leads me to believe that by the time 2010 rolls around that Colorado may be in a position to turn red once again, but it will take more then that to retake this Senate seat. It takes a strong personal commitment for anybody to run for office, much less a state wide office such as this. I have the passion to get the job done on the campaign trail and am the only candidate in this race, Republican or Democrat, to travel to all 64 counties. When I traveled across the state visiting these counties one thing became apparent to me and that is campaigns in large part have forgotten about the grassroots activists who make this party run in the first place! I will do whatever it takes to integrate the grassroots activists into my campaign and utilize them to their full effect.

I plan on communicating my message to the people in as many ways as possible. Traditional modes of communication such as television, radio and mail will all be utilized, but newer forms of communication such as social networking, blogging, twittering, text messaging and emails will also be used. Republicans have been behind the curve for years now when it comes to these types of communication and if we do not correct our mistakes we should prepare for more losses. Not only are these newer forms of communications proving to be just as effective at relaying a message as older forms of communication but they can be used at a fraction of the cost.

2) Do you plan to get on the ballot via assembly or petition?
Assembly.

3) How are you going to deliver your message to the entire state?
Colorado’s next senator must work to earn the confidence of the state’s voters. From the start of this campaign, I have made it my number one priority to reach out to the people of Colorado. Currently, I am the only candidate in the race for U.S. Senate to have visited all 64 counties in Colorado, and I will continue to personally reach out to as many voters as possible.

4) Do you have any fundraising goals set yet?
We hope to raise as much money as possible, in order to wage a successful campaign against Sen. Michael Bennet, and the special interests in Washington who are supporting his campaign.

5) How are you different from the other candidates?
As district attorney, I understand the value of government and the roll that it can play in protecting the lives and rights of the American people. Because of this understanding, I have been able to successfully curb the number of gangs in Weld County, and fought for measures to protect the people and families of my district. In fact, since being elected district attorney, crime in Weld County has decreased greatly. I worked with law enforcement and community leaders to fight for programs that work while staying well within my budget, such as programs to keep kids in school, rather than turning to the streets, and cutting gang activity in my district.

Being district attorney has also allowed me to stand up for the people of Weld County from a sometimes overbearing government. As senator, I will continue my fight to ensure that the federal government does not overstep its bounds.

6) Why are you qualified to serve as our Senator?
As a prosecutor, I have dedicated 100% of my efforts to following the law and protecting the people of the United States. As district attorney, I am required to make the tough choices necessary to protect the people of Weld County, regardless of the political consequences.

As senator, I will serve the people of Colorado with this same dedication.

7) What is your plan to get us out of this economic recession?
Driving the United States further into debt is not the way to get out of the current economic recession. In fact, this merely extends our country’s economic problems to our children and grandchildren. Instead of voting on spending package after spending package, I will work on creating jobs through the private sector. Small business has historically been the driving force in our economy, and that continues to this day. In order to create more jobs, we must have policies in place to help America’s small businesses and families, such as tax reform, and providing for responsible, market-based health care reform—not reform imposed on the back of our small businesses and the American people.

8) What is your biggest concern of the Obama administration?
My primary concern with President Obama is that regardless of the problem his answer is to increase spending, and to give the federal government more control over businesses, schools and our lives. The United States has several serious challenges that it must deal with, including a weakened economy, growing jobless numbers, a record high deficit, problems in our educational system and skyrocketing healthcare. Democrats and Republicans agree what the problems are, but we do not agree on how best to deal with them. As a U.S. Senator, I will work to limit the role of government in our country’s businesses, schools, doctors’ offices and our personal lives.


9) Why Senate and not Governor?
There is nothing I would like to do more than represent the people of Colorado as we work to tackle our country’s many challenges, such as creating jobs, and defending our nation.


10) How strong do you think the GOP is right now?
The Republican Party is weak because we have recently lost our way. While in control of Congress, Republicans voted for deficit spending, expanding the federal government, and were more concerned about being reelected than doing what was right for their constituents and the country. Thankfully, Republicans are running back to our core values of fiscal responsibility and limited government. Having a leader who has never strayed from these principals is vital to get the GOP on the right track. As senator, I will continue my record of supporting limited government, lower taxes and having a fiscally sound government.

11) If there is just one thing you could accomplish or pass in the Senate, what would it be?
As senator, my first priority will be to fight for a balanced budget and curb wasteful spending.

12) What do you think the biggest issue facing the next generation is and what would you do about it in the Senate?
The biggest issue facing the next generation of Americans is the massive federal deficit and its effect on the economy. As a U.S. Senator, I will work for policies that will create jobs and fix our economy. These policies include balancing the budget, harnessing America’s sources of energy, creating a pro-business and pro-growth tax measures, and providing for meaningful healthcare reform that leaves our medical decisions to the American people and their doctors—not the U.S. Congress.

13) Anything else you would like to add?
My wife Perry and I have had a great time travelling Colorado’s 64 counties, and meeting the people who make this state great. As we continue our campaign for the U.S. Senate, we look forward to continue meeting as many Coloradans as possible and hearing about how they want their government to work for them.

Now what do you guys thinks about Ken?

Maes Hitting Up Grassroots, Close To Second in Straw Poll

Evergreen businessman Dan Maes (candidate for Governor) recently sent out and e-mail and has been reprinted by Backbone America:

The Democrats, liberals, progressives or whatever name they go by these
days, have awakened the sleeping giant of the silent majority and a conservative
revolution is upon us. In my now over 30,000 miles of campaign travel I have
seen this revolution in the form of Tea Parties, new grass roots organizations
like 9.12, I Caucus, ROAR America, Liberty on the Rocks, R Block Party, and
others all around the state by names unique to their own region.

A clear message has been articulated and that is “Enough is Enough” of
the recent and not so recent sins of our fathers in both parties. Generally
speaking members of these groups want to be republicans but the sour taste of
the sins is still wearing off. They want new and fresh faces in their candidates
and anyone that has any similarity to a lawyer or “career politician” may as
well pack their bags and go home if these folks have anything to say about it.
They want common sense candidates and leadership that truly represents them and
not party or special interests.

Though Dan Maes has not been getting press like the other guys in the race, he is trying hard to get there. A newcomer to politics, Dan has been all over the state in a short amount of time selling himself as the best choice to lead Colorado forward. Back when he announced, nobody thought Maes would even be able to continue this far let alone this speed, but now things are changing. Still having a very long way to go, Maes is hitting it out at events and gaining volunteers. Will he be able to shake enough hands, speak at enough events, knock on enough doors before the convention? Time will tell. Until then Maes won't stop.

Results from the Central Committee Meeting last night....

Josh Penry: 79%
Scott McInnis: 11%
Dan Maes 9%

Jane Norton: 34%
Ryan Frazier: 27%
Ken Buck: 27%

Norton Brings Mixed Bag: Will GOP Accept?

Watching former Lt. Governor Jane Norton announce her run at her site http://www.janenortonforcolorado.com/ shows you the extent of her speaking skills. Boring. By far the least enthusiastic candidate in Colorado that has announced a run for office in 2010. Can you honestly say you weren't bored or stopped paying attention with her quiet monotone voice?

However, in recent Rassmussen polls apparently nobody at the moment cares about that, they hear her name against Bennet or Romanoff and say "I'd rather have Norton".

Jane Norton (R)
45%
Michael Bennet (D)
36%

Jane Norton (R)
42%
Andrew Romanoff (D)
34%

So far Norton has made head-lines in the Republican party because rumors the NRSC is going to endorse Norton. That brings her money, lots and lots, but also loses credibility and local GOP activists. As you've seen (or haven't) Colorado's conservatives are not happy with Washington telling who their nominee will be when this is one of the most likely pick-ups in Colorado. Norton also has been accused from the right as being a liberal, supporting Tax Increases while working with Owens which will also surely hurt her in this primary of conservative voters.

Norton also does however fare better in polls then Frazier and Buck. Frazier only edging Bennet by 1 point and Buck trailing. Perhaps it's the name ID, Norton was Lt. Governor while Buck and Frazier are only well known in their areas.

Probably one of the most controversial candidates for the GOP in 2010, Norton will have to sway Republicans that she is the one to beat Bennet (or Romanoff). What we do know...Bennet and even Romanoff are very weak, so it's up to the GOP primary voters who they want the next Senator from Colorado to be. Even Cleve Tidwell or Luke Korkowski could become it if the GOP wishes it. Will Norton's NRSC "support" and fundraising "skills" be able to bring her to victory, or will the GOP say "We'd like a conservative that WE choose" next year. With still a year to go, anything could happen

Tom Wiens Enters Race

Just a few days ago I filed the papers for the Tom Wiens for U.S. Senate
Exploratory Committee, Inc. I'm emailing you because I want to know if I
can count on you to help me bring Washington back in line with Main Street
Colorado. As a small businessman/rancher and former Colorado State
Senator, I have the experience to take on Washington insiders and deliver
results, not excuses. I am asking you to right now, go to
www.tomwiens2010.com and give me your thoughts and show your support by making a
contribution.
Why, you are probably asking, would I think about running for
the U. S. Senate?
I'll tell you exactly why: I love my country
and Colorado and I am fed up with the direction the politicians in Washington
are taking our nation.
I've been having conversations with people all over
the state and I am hearing the same issues surfacing over and over again:
Coloradans are angry, and they have a right to be. They are working twice
as hard for half the opportunity, and are worried more than ever about losing
their jobs.
People across American, and especially in Colorado, feel like
the politicians in Washington aren't listening anymore. Many feel the
politicians actually know what the average person wants, and they simply do not
care. Right now there is a monopoly of power in Washington and they are
going to do what they want and forget about the rest of us.
http://www.tomwiens2010.com/

Wiens isn't known to fit in anywhere yet. Will he raise the big bucks and make it far, or is he just some random guy running like a lot of other's are doing? We'll have to wait and see.

Buck Stays In

Ken Buck issued the following statement:

Ken Buck confirmed today that it's full steam ahead for his campaign for the
U.S. Senate.Buck said, "While other candidates may still jump in the Senate
race, one thing is clear - our party's nominee will be chosen by Colorado's
grassroots Republicans, not by political operatives in Washington D.C."Buck said
he has been deeply gratified by the strong response to his campaign from
literally thousands of Coloradans over the past few months. "We have campaign
leadership in every county in the state," he said.Buck declared that his
campaign has never been about him personally but rather about the critical
importance of taking back the U.S. Senate seat from Michael Bennet.Colorado
deserves a strong independent Senator who will do the right thing for Colorado.
Instead Buck claimed, "the appointed Senator Bennet has turned out to be just
another rubber stamp for the big spending, big government liberals in Congress."

Romanoff To Jump In Race

The Denver Post reports that Andrew Romanoff will challenge Sen. Michael Bennet in the Democratic primary:

Wally Stealey, a longtime lobbyist and political mover in Pueblo, said Romanoff called him Friday morning to tell him he had decided to run."If I'd have had my choice, I'd have him running against Ritter," Stealey said. "But I didn't get my choice. That doesn't matter. You don't always get your choice in politics."Democratic strategists say the 43-year-old Romanoff faces significant hurdles in mounting a run against a sitting U.S. senator, even one appointed less than eight months ago and who still has relatively limited name recognition.

As we observed shortly after Bennet's appointment, you would be hard pressed to find anyone in either party willing to claim that Michael Bennet would make a better Senator than Romanoff. Why Romanoff decided to wait until September, giving Bennet a nearly three quarter head-start, is anyone's guess.

NRSC Clearing Path For Norton

With word spreading that Ken Buck will drop out of Colorado’s U.S. Senate primary on Monday, there is very good reason to believe the NRSC’s effort extends to trying to push Ryan Frazier out of the race as well.

However, a trusted source has directly contacted the Ryan Frazier campaign this morning and tells me that Ryan is in it to win it. In fact, Frazier and his team are working hard today at the State Fair in Pueblo. The state of the race is changing quickly, but I am heartened and reassured by the news that it still looks like the people of Colorado still will have the choice of a credible pro-liberty candidate.

In related news, Joshua weighs in on developments in the Senate raceand notes: I spoke with Dick Wadhams yesterday and he said that he hadn’t seen any indications that the NRSC was getting ready to jump in. They do usually coordinate this sort of thing with the state party chairman in question, and he hadn’t heard anything.

Beauprez OUT, Norton IN

From Mountain Virtus...

Update II, 6:10 PM: Within the past hour Bob Beauprez has sent out and posted an official announcement:

Not every opportunity is the right one though, and having been presented with the potential to serve in the United States Senate, Claudia and I considered it very carefully. However after significant reflection, I will not be a candidate for the Senate in 2010.

Recently, we started a new family business, raising buffalo on a ranch in Colorado’s mountains. I’m enjoying working with our son, Jim, who is managing the ranch, much as I worked side-by-side with my own father in the dairy business. And most personally, Claudia and I love being grandparents as well as spending more time than we’ve ever had with our grown children….

Guest-hosting for Dan Caplis, Beauprez also made the same announcement on
air on 630 KHOW. Reading between the lines, I’d guess with a fair degree of
certainty that he plans to endorse Jane Norton when
she rolls out her campaign in the next few weeks.

With Beauprez out, the race isn't quiet as full. However with former Lt. Governor Jane Norton in, alone with a Beauprez endorsement, that gap gets tiny once again. With many many candidates in this race and only three possible slots via convention, this will be one long hard primary for 2010.

PPP Polling Skewed?

A post worth looking at over at ColoradoPols

Like we said discussing another purported result of this poll, the amusing notion that historic political faceplant Bob Beauprez might actually be an electable candidate for the U.S. Senate, it was weighted in a manner that will invariably skew the results to favor GOP candidates and policy positions--almost 40% of the poll's respondents were self-identified Republicans, when the reality in Colorado is more like 33%. If you were to re-align these sampled numbers to demographic reality, you'd get a much different result. It's really that simple.

So the polled more Republicans then Colorado usually has voting, yes. However, when your party is out of power completely the guys to blame almost always is other party. Put that on top of the fact that Republicans will be more eager to get dems out of office then dems will be to keep them in office could make some truth to the fact that 40% of people polled were Republicans.

Still interesting post to look at.

Ritter Flips In Only Two Days

From RMR...

If you go to 9News.com, do a search simply for "Ritter." Today's headline
reads: Cuts, fee hikes in Ritter's budget plans. But on Sunday, just two short
days ago, the headline was: Gov. Ritter: No new taxes or fees.

Apparently, a carefully crafted statement where there won't be any new
fees, only fee increases. Thanks, guv!

Canter Drops Out

Just in...David Canter (Democrat) running for the 6th Congressional District in a primary against John Flerlage to later challenege Mike Coffman has just dropped his bid for US Congress.

17th August 2009

Over the past month, I have met with friends, family, supporters,
campaign consultants, elected officials and campaign staff regarding the
viability of my campaign to become the first Democrat to represent Colorado's
6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.
As many of you know, there were two exceptional candidates vying for the support of the Democrats and Progressives of Colorado's 6th Congressional District: me and John Flerlage. We both campaigned hard and, understandably, many members of our party were conflicted as to where they should donate their time, expertise and money. Some even decided to wait until after the August 2010 primary to show their support for the future nominee.

As Abraham Lincoln once observed, "A house divided against itself
cannot stand." Thus, after much deliberation, and for the good of the party and
the people of this district, I have decided to suspend my campaign.

Though my campaign may be suspended, I remain committed to work with
local parties and candidates to change the status quo in the 6th Congressional
District. I may have stepped aside, but I am not stepping away. Much work
remains to be done.

For far too long our progressive ideals and values have fallen on deaf
ears in the 6th Congressional District -- a district that has become synonymous
with the hate-filled, bigoted rhetoric of people like Tom Tancredo. The 6th
Congressional District's Republican establishment has turned its backs on the
people of this district -- people who are losing their jobs, their health care
coverage, their ability to provide for their families. Too many in this district
can't afford to send their kids to college, while still others are forced to
chose between putting gas in their cars or paying their mortgage. No one in this
economy is immune -- not Democrats, not Independents, and not Republicans.

Over the past several months, John Flerlage and I have appeared at
functions together, we have talked to one another, and we have exchanged our
ideas on the issues that are most important to you. Though I am suspending my
campaign, I pledge my support for John to help him build a grassroots effort
that will unite our party and bring victory to the Progressives in a district
that has been ignored by those on the right for far too long.

In closing, I extend my appreciation to those of you who supported my
campaign, who provided me with encouragement, and who recognized that a Democrat can win Colorado's 6th Congressional District. It has been a wonderful and
humbling experience meeting with you and hearing firsthand what you expect from
your elected officials. Last, a special "thank you" to my wife, Joni, and my children, Joshua, Sam and Amanda, for allowing me to take this journey with you over the past 10 months.

Warmest regards, and with my deepest, heartfelt gratitude,

David S.
Canter

Colorado Senate Race Wide Open

From PPP...

Michael Bennet's approval rating is just as bad as it was
when we polled Colorado in April but voters in the state don't like any of his possible Republican opponents either, leaving this Senate contest pretty wide open.

38% of voters in the state disapprove of Bennet's job performance so far
with 31% approving. Those numbers are roughly equal to our previous survey which found the numbers at 41% disapproval to 34% approval. There are two primary reasons for Bennet's net negative ratings. The first is that Republicans disapprove (62%) of him more than Democrats approve of him (57%). The second is that he's getting unfavorable reviews from independents, 36% of whom disapprove of him compared to 29% approving.

One piece of good news for Bennet is that he's getting better reviews now
from the key Democratic constituency of Hispanic voters now than he was when we polled the state in April and January. 38% approve of the job he's doing with just 27% disapproving. It had been 41% disapproving and 33% approving earlier, perhaps a reflection of unhappiness that Ken Salazar was not replaced by another Hispanic senator.

Potential Republican opponents Bob Beauprez, Ryan Frazier,
and Ken Buck all get overall negative reviews from voters in
the state as well. 40% have an unfavorable opinion of Beauprez to 30% with a positive one. For Frazier it's 19% negative and 11% favorable and for Buck the numbers are 18% unfavorable and 17% favorable.

In head to head contests Beauprez leads Bennet 42-39, while the incumbent has a 39-35 advantage over Buck and a 38-33 one against Frazier.Bennet's numbers are partially a reflection of the downward turn in Democratic fortunes nationwide over the last few months, as seats that were thought to be safe for 2010 have come into play in conjunction with the decline in Barack Obama's approval rating. It's also a function of the fact that most voters still don't know him very well, something that his prodigious fundraising will be able to rectify in spades next year.

Full results here

First thing first, no one likes any of 'em. All four guys have negative approval. Beauprez obviously showing good numbers from his run in 2006 when he didn't know why he was running. Buck and Frazier and even Bennet are still pretty unknown too, and people are more likely to know politicians if they're mad at them.

This polling is virtually the same as the last time there was polling meaning nothing's changed. After months of campaign, it's still locked. Beauprez edges Bennet, Bennet edges Buck and Frazier.

Still, it's over a year before the general election and anything could happen between now and then, I mean anything. Remember when we all though it was gunna be Giuliani vs Hillary? Or we thought Huckabee wouldn't ever win a state and that Obama would win only about three?

Later this week the Gubernatorial race. Haven't seen those numbers in a while either.

Coffman Blames Dems for Lay-offs

(LONE TREE, CO) – U.S. Rep. Mike Coffman (R-Colorado)
today passed blame for Lockheed Martin Space Systems’ announced 4.5%
(approximately 800 employees) workforce lay-off to the Obama Administration and
Congressional Democrats. Space Systems will lay-off personnel primarily at the
Denver, CO, and Sunnyvale, CA, facilities.

“I will say what Lockheed Martin can’t say because of their reliance on the Congress to fund a number of ongoing programs: “Lockheed Martin is reducing jobs to meet the reduction in the investment America is now making in our national missile defense and space assets. If these cuts were a part of a general government belt-tightening, they would still be dangerous to our long-term national security. The fact that our national space assets are being cut while we keep spending like a drunken sailor elsewhere is infuriating.

“These are good-paying American jobs being cut, and their loss will affect communities, schools, and the local economy. The agenda-driven priorities of those in Congress and the Administration demand cuts to military and space budgets – yet at the same time they have run a deficit of over $1 trillion, which we don’t have, since President Obama took office. This is shameful.”

DelGrosso To Replace Marostica

From Rocky Mountain Right

Brian DelGrosso was selected to replace Don Marostica last night at the State
House District 51 Vacancy Committee and joins the swelling ranks of appointed
state legislators. The Coloradoan
reports:
DelGrosso grew up in Cheyenne, where he served as a legislative aide
for one session while in college. He also began delivering pizza for Domino’s as
a college student in Cheyenne, where he eventually was nominated for management
training.
That led to him becoming the operations director for 20 stores,
overseeing 300 people and accountable for the finances of the
businesses.
Today, he owns three restaurants, two in Loveland and one in
Windsor.

Gardner Wants Shared Town Hall With Markey

State Rep. Cory Gardner (R-Yuma) today extended an invitation to
U.S. Rep. Betsy Markey (D- Fort Collins) to join him next week for the second of
two town hall meetings he has scheduled during the month August. The first
meeting, held on August 11th, included more than 30,000 constituents from
Colorado’s 4th Congressional District. The second meeting is scheduled for
Wednesday, August 19th, at 6:30 pm. Rep. Gardner invited Rep. Markey to join him
at the Lincoln Center mini theater (located at 417 W Magnolia St, in Fort
Collins) to meet with local residents.

“With spiraling deficits
complicating landmark decisions on issues like healthcare, energy independence,
and economic growth, certainly now is the time to put aside partisan bickering
and listen to the voice of the people,” noted Rep. Gardner in an open letter
delivered yesterday to Rep. Markey’s offices.

“The time for you and I to
debate policy will come soon enough, but right now, at this seminal time for our
great nation, it is vital that we hear from those who will bear the brunt of
government burdens,” continued Gardner. “With Congress on its August break and
no town hall meetings of your own on the schedule, my hope is that you will be
free to join me and discuss these issues of importance with Colorado’s working
families.”

Gardner placing himself above the field looking very confident he will win the primary hands down. Markey could say yes and of course all the other Republican candidates and supporters would be angered that their candidates have been "pushed out". She could say no and Gardner and the Republicans could taunt her. Or she could not answer or pretend to be busy and every can still make fun of her.

Sure is a bold move for Gardner, though he thinks he's playing his cards right. This looks like a move from the Republican nominee, not a candidate for the Republican nominee.

But the competition against Gardner isn't too scary now is it?

Frazier Speaks On Newsmax

Ryan Frazier running for a better future for our children. Saying it's all about Jobs, Jobs, Jobs.

Election Update

Governor
UP Josh Penry* (5-1) Traveling the state and moving fast. He's gaining lots of supporters in the party as well as most of the state republican legislators. He may not be the best candidate to take on Ritter, but he is the favorite at the moment in the GOP from his momentum. If he can turn out the youth and get them to vote and be elected delegates he can win the nomination.

UP Scott McInnis* (5-1) After months of fumbling mess-ups, violations, ect...McInnis is on the move. Showing strong results in the latest polls for the GOP primary. His message is strong too...he's in it for Colorado. Remember when Beauprez didn't know why he was even running for Governor, can't have that happen again. McInnis has strong roots with the "experienced" republicans in the party. As long as Wadhams doesn't go full force against McInnis he could easily win this if the cards are played right.

Dan Maes* (12-1) For being a total unknown a few months ago, Maes now has over 40% ID in the party. The probably is half of the 40% don't know enough to make up their minds about him. He comes in as a new type of candidate. Businessman (like McInnis) yet not a career politician. He too gets support in the youth of the party and along the front range. If he is able to take the suburbs he has a serious shot in this race.

OUT Tom Tancredo...Good-bye Tanc, you're removed from our Election Odds line.


Senate
UP Ken Buck* (7-1) Made double the money as Frazier. He first has to increase his online activity, and show that he's been out there, but he's getting there. Buck has the ability to excite the Tancredo part of the base without totally alienating everyone else like Tancredo would do. His strong roots in the north need to spread out first though. He'll have to be able to take most the Denver suburbs from Frazier to win this.

DOWN Ryan Frazier* (10-1) Poor fundraising showings in the first quarter could hurt him. Frazier has to be able to match funds raised by Buck to compete. He has the energy to win, but he needs the money to do so. If he can use his military background and the ability to say he was elected by a huge population to win the front rage and Denver area as well as the surrounding suburbs he could win and beat Bennet.

DOWN Cleve Tidwell* (18-1) Made some noise at the beginning but has gone more quiet. He has to prove and show us that he's out there and active. He'll have the personal funds to compete, but he needs to connect with voters and get a clear message to win. Using military background and being raised in rural America he could win the south, rural Colorado and parts of the front range giving him a shot at the nom. He needs a message and to stick to it first.

Tom Wiens* (25-1) We're all still waiting on Wiens. Will he even get enough for double digits or will he be able to swoop Colorado and create strong grassroots organization? Time will tell, until then we keep an eye on him.

UP Bob Beauprez (30-1) Moving up because he can't move down. Beauprez is making noise. Will he be able to make the greatest comeback in Colorado history or completely end his political career? All beats on in his race for the Senate. Beauprez will be fighting with Buck for votes giving Frazier and Tidwell a chance to rise. Beauprez can raise the money, but can he connect with voters and prove he's the one we need in the Senate? If he can he wins, if not it's 2006 all over again.

Luke Korkowski* (45-1) You could say he's rising as Luke is starting to get out there building ID and support, however some of the stuff he posts on his campaign site is obvious proof this guy isn't a real competitor. He won't be as successful as turning from a nobody to somebody like Maes.


Treasurer
UP Walker Stapleton* (4-1) Stapleton did an amazing job raising funds so far. Ousting current Treasurer Kennedy...remember this seat is about money. Stapleton needs to become more exciting, get his name out there and say what he's all about to win. If he can tackle those things he will be the next Treasuer.

JJ Ament* (6-1) If he is able to raise the same amount of money as his opponent Ament can win. He's more exciting and a better speaker. He does a better job at connecting with the voters but none of that matters if you have zero dollars in the bank. We'll see come next quarter when everyone comes out with fundraising results.

OUT Muh. Ali Hasan...If he wants in he must jump now, but it would be very hard for him to beat out Stapleton's money even with his charisma.


Secretary of State
DOWN Scott Gessler* (9-1) Can't raise squat and spending more then he makes...come on people is this what you want as a candidate for state-wide office?

Nancy Doty (9-1) Definitely should be looking much closer at this race now that Gessler has proved himself to be a campaigning fool


CD-4
UP Cory Gardner* (4-1) Has shown he's the favorite. He can raise money and can spend it well unlike his opponents. Cory is pretty well known in the district already and should be a serious threat to Markey should he get the nom. The GOP leadership is already unoffically supporting him knowning he's probably their best bet in 2010.

DOWN Diggs Brown (9-1) Though has the greatest potential, Diggs needs to get back here and start campaigning right away or it's a no go. His campaign staff is spending much more then they make even though they're making quiet a bit of money for an unannounced candidate. Paying yourself should not be the top priority of your campaign spending

DOWN Tom Lucero* (12-1) Raising virtually nothing and not getting enuthastic support. Though he was first to get in this race, he definetly isn't in front. Lucero needs to turn things around now or he won't even make it to the priamry.

Steve Johnson (15-1) A moderate, but still could have a chance. Now that this crowded field isn't looking so hard to win in, Johnson should be taking a look at this.


CD-6
DOWN John Flerlage* (5-1) More likely to win general then Canter, but not by much. John can't raise money and he needs it to beat Coffman. Military background helps, but if he can't get the money there's no way he's taking this conservative district.

DOWN MORE David Canter* (8-1) Hasn't proven himself. Hasn't raised money, doesn't appeal to voters as well as Flerlage. He won't be able to win unless he does something or raises something big and fast.


CD-7
Ed Tauer (7-1) Has ID and campaign experience to win the primary. But first will the GOP even have enough money to spare for this race, second does he really think he can win against Perlmutter. He's probably the best possible candidate, but he'd need some good funding to win.

DOWN John Lerew (10-1) Popular with the local GOP. Lerew did an amazing job winning the primary last year without even trying or being announced. He does have the image of a solid candidate, but doesn't have the money to get there.

DOWN Troy Eid (17-1) Will the 7th just see his ambitions? Eid just wants office, doesn't matter what and that won't play well. Perlmutter will also nail him for that espescially if he even shows an inch of being a threat.

UP Jim Lakey (18-1) Has some core support and ID. He's known by radio listeners which would be needed to beat Perlmutter. If GOP can't fund this race at least Lakey wouldn't be totally unknown. But could he beat the candidates above in a primary? With enough support...

UP Brian Campbell* (35-1) Though he has no money and doesn't know how to campaign, Brian is trying to get noticed. Being active in Tea Parties and talking to republicans. He wants it, but he won't ever be able to get it without hard core donors and a bunch of excited volunteers. Get some campaign experience then come again.

*Candidate has announced run for office

Obama Flips On Health Care

"I have not said that I was a single payer supporter."
-- President Obama, at a town hall meeting in New Hampshire this afternoon.

"I happen to be a proponent of a single payer universal health care plan."
-- Obama, at a Senate campaign rally in 2003.

NRSC Releases 2012 Proxy Ballot

In a fundraising pitch, the National Republican Senatorial Committee issues an online proxy ballot that includes a list of Republican candidates for a 2012 race.

The question: Which of the following Republicans is your FIRST choice for the GOP presidential nomination?

The list you can choose from:
a. Haley Barbour
b. Jeb Bush
c. Mitch Daniels
d. Jon Huntsman
e. Mike Huckabee
f. Bobby Jindal
g. John McCain
h. Sarah Palin
i. Ron Paul
j. Tim Pawlenty
k. Mitt Romney
l. Other

They then ask who your second choice is (Is this a Top of Ticket-Bottom of Ticket gauge?).

Notes: Ron Paul shows up. That seems to be a significant concession from the NRSC that it will be more solicitous of his voters this time around.

Governor Haley Barbour (Chairman of RGA is at the top).

Mitch Daniels (who says he isn't running) and Jon Huntsman (who will be ambassador to China under the Obama administration) are both on the ballet also.

Looks like they aren't running Palin out either.

Gingrich Gives 4 Ways To Create Jobs

In less then three minutes...

Tidwell, Diggs Launch Videos

Beauprez In For Senate Race

Former Republican congressman Bob Beauprez told POLITICO that he is
“leaning towards running" against Sen. Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) because he
doesn’t think any of the party’s current crop of candidates can win.

“There’s a general sense that our field isn’t really set on our side, and
Bennet is quite vulnerable,” said Beauprez. “We’re looking at it -- with an
increased sense of urgency.”

Beauprez said the administration's policies on health care and energy have
been driving him to jump in the race. But he remains concerned whether he will
be able to raise enough money in a tough environment for fundraising.

He said he will have to make his decision soon, but didn't set a
timetable.Bennet, who was appointed to replace now-Interior Secretary Ken
Salazar in January, ended June with over $2.2 million in his campaign
account.

Beauprez represented a competitive suburban Denver district from 2003-2007.
But he suffered a crushing 17-point loss to Democratic Gov. Bill Ritter in 2006,
a significant setback to his political career.

But Colorado Republicans have been underwhelmed by the two current
candidates in the race – Aurora city councilman Ryan Frazier and Weld County
district attorney Ken Buck. Frazier, who has generated buzz as an
African-American Republican star in the making, only raised $143,000 in the
quarter -- well below expectations. And Buck didn't do too much better, only
bringing in $332,000.

Beauprez said he’s skeptical that those two are capable of garnering the
resources to put the Senate seat in play.

“I consider them good friends, but at the end of the day someone needs to
be in this race that can win,” Beauprez said.

Tidwell Campaign Manager Steps Down

Sean Doherty, former campaign manager for George Lilly who sought Diana DeGette's Congressional seat unsuccessfully last year has stepped down from leading Team Tidwell in his efforts for US Senate.

Tidwell can be seen as a wild card in this race. A make it or break it. Either he's a refreshing new face with business experience that can win the race against Bennet, or he's a nobody that the GOP won't nominate, at least this time around.

This will surely cause for a shake-up of things and set a new course for Tidwell's Senate bid. Time is running out to make his case on why he would be a better Senator and has a better chance at winning then the high profile Republicans.

The Senate race already includes Ryan Frazier, Ken Buck, Luke Korkowski most likely Tom Wiens, possibly Bob Beauprez and other minor candidates.

Korkowski In For Sure

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LUKE KORKOWSKI FILES FEC PAPERWORKKickoff Event to Follow

Luke Korkowski filed the appropriate Federal Election Commission paperwork today to make him an official Republican candidate for the United States Senate in 2010. Planning for a public campaign kickoff event is in the works.

“Since publicly announcing my exploration of candidacy on July 1, the response I have received from folks all over the state has been very positive and encouraging,” Luke said. “People seem ready to have a Senator who will propose solutions rather than talk in generalities about ‘issues’.” He went on to say, “The folks I’ve talked with don’t want someone cut from the same cloth as the politicians who have created our current economic mess.”

When asked what sets him apart, Luke replied, “What I know how to do and what I love to do is write laws, study public policy in depth, and make smart decisions about complex problems. It’s time that our leaders stopped pretending that difficult challenges can be resolved with a thirty second sound bite and a smile.”

Luke is planning to tour the state to discuss how we can solve our most pressing challenges and how we can make sure that recovery begins in Colorado. More information about the campaign can be found at the official Korkowski for Colorado website: www.luke2010.com.
Luke lives in Mt Crested Butte with his wife and two small children, making him the only candidate from the Western Slope in the U.S. Senate race.

# # #

Coffman Still Focused On Cap And Trade

Coffman Participates in Bicameral Hearing on Cap and TradePanel evaluates legislation’s impact on jobs in the West

(WASHINGTON, D.C) – Rep. Mike Coffman (R-CO) today participated in a historic bicameral public hearing on cap and trade legislation sponsored by the House and Senate Western Caucuses. Western Caucus members from both chambers of Congress heard testimony from policy experts and key stakeholders on the specific economic impact cap and trade policies are likely to have on the West.

“Today’s hearing is especially important because the majority party in Congress has stifled open debate on the cap and trade issue. I have been extremely disappointed by this lack of transparency and the testimony provided today has painted a more complete picture of how cap and trade will affect our nation,” Coffman stated in his opening remarks.

When the House Democrats’ version of cap and trade legislation was brought to the floor for a vote on June 26th, Coffman voted against the bill. The Senate has yet to finalize or vote on their version of the legislation.

“While Congress and the media are largely focused on health care reform, the Democrats’ cap and trade legislation still looms as potentially the largest tax increase in our nation’s history. The West has absorbed the worst of the recession as evidenced by the regional jobless rate numbers from June,” Coffman commented. “What we heard today confirms that the Democrats’ current proposal would in essence be an economic double whammy on families and small businesses in the West. Cap and trade is the wrong policy at the wrong time.”

A complete list of witnesses is below.

# # #

The Honorable Dick Armey, Ph. D., Former U.S. Representative and Chairman, FreedomWorks;·
Mr. Harry C. Alford, President and CEO, National Black Chamber of Commerce;·
Mr. William L. Kovas, SVP, Environment, Technology and Regulatory Affairs, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; ·
Mr. Kimball Rasmussem, CEO, Deseret Power; ·
Mr. Phil Kerpen, Director of Policy, Americans for Prosperity; and ·
Mr. Ben Lieberman, Senior Policy Analyst, Energy and Environment, Thomas A. Roe Institute for Economic Policy Studies.

McInnis Beats Penry On Latest Poll

The ballot test for the Republican nominee for Governor, among all Republican
primary voters, shows Scott McInnis leading
with 34%, followed by Josh Penry with
11%, Dan Maes with 6%, and 49% being
undecided. The results of this survey clearly demonstrate that Scott
McInnis enjoys broad support and name recognition across the state. Josh Penry
and Dan Maes have a lot of work to do in both support and name recognition at
this early stage of the campaign.

Full Polling Report Here

Tom Wiens Enters Senate Race

From RMR...

Former state Senator Tom Wiens appears to be jumping into an increasingly
crowded field for United States Senate. On Monday, Wiens took the first step
towards running by filing Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State
for the "Tom Wiens For U.S. Senate Exploritory (sic) Committee, Inc."

This move typically precedes the formal FEC filing of a campaign
committee which will likely take place in the coming days. Wiens had previously
been aggressively floating his name for the gubernatorial race since at least
2005.

Wadhams Thinks Huckabee Is Serious Candidate

From "The Fix"

Huckabee has cared for and fed that base since the election -- primarily
through his television and radio shows. Colorado Republican Party Chairman Dick Wadhams compared Huckabee's media
presence to the radio addresses delivered by Ronald Reagan during the
1970s.

"The impact of those commentaries seemed to escape notice by the media
of that era and perhaps we're witnessing the same thing happening now with
Huckabee," said Wadhams. "He will have been on the air for more than two years
when we enter 2011 so its hard for me to see how he could not be a serious
candidate in 2012."

Full Story Here

Stop Obama Care Today

E-mail or contact your Representative today and urge them to NOT support HR 3200 (Obama Care) that will give government control over your health choices.

This weekend I e-mailed Congressman Perlmutter...

Congressman Perlmutter,

I know that you are a strong supporter of
trying to get every American a health care plan. However, this bill coming
through Congress is going destroy the economy. Much of the bill will be wasted,
just like the trillion dollar stimulus. Small businesses that are just starting
cannot afford to pay for health care at this time especially in this economy.
This system too, will be totally bureaucracy that will not be in favor of
taxpayers and the American citizens whom are your employers. President Obama
also suggested that the middle class will now help pay for this system. The
middle class runs the economy, if they can’t spend, the economy will crash
again. That means the entire trillion dollar stimulus will be wasted. All this
bill will do is drive up inflation, make it hard for small business to work, and
hurt the economy. We must take other measures to get all Americans quality
health care.

We can start by working on welfare. We can help those
that are able to working, to get back in the game again. We can help them find a
job, and support them in their new life instead of wasting money paying for them
to sit around all day. We can allow small business to pool together to pay for
their employee’s health care together. We can work on stopping these ridiculous
medical lawsuits that cost doctors and hospitals millions. We can open up walk
in clinics that will be much less expensive than an emergency room, so those
that are having a hard time right now will still be able to get affordable
medical treatment.

There is so much we can do to improving health
care, getting people out of poverty and making health care more affordable, all
without this Health Care Bill that will be going through Congress. I urge you to
vote NO on HR 3200 and instead open up to all the other multiple
options that will help improve health care in America dramatically. Your goal to
have all Americans on health care can still be done, but not through this
universal health care mess.

It is still possible to stop this. Remember that these government officials are YOUR employees.

Also see Ben DeGrow's

Bunning Won't Run For Re-election

Jim Bunning of Kentucky won't seek re-election in the Senate. What does this mean?...a Democratic pick-up looks less likely now that this weak incumbent will be out the door without a primary fight first.

From Courier-Journal.com

Ending months of speculation that he couldn't afford to run for a third term in 2010, U.S. Sen. Jim Bunning announced Monday that he will not seek re-election.

In a statement from his Senate office, Bunning blamed unnamed Republican leaders for making it difficult for him to mount a campaign.

“Over the past year, some of the leaders of the Republican Party in the Senate have done everything in their power to dry up my fundraising,” Bunning said. “The simple fact is that I have not raised the funds necessary to run an effective campaign for the U.S. Senate. For this reason, I will not be a candidate for re-election in 2010.”

Bunning has accused Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of trying to sabotage his campaign since, saying McConnell told him in December that he was too old to seek another term.