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.