SW Colorado has been blessed with strong and effective representation over the years that were focused on preserving and enhancing our unique lifestyles regardless of which political party they were a part of. Democrats like Jim Dyer and Barbara McLachlan and Republicans like Mark Larson and Ellen Roberts. After I changed my registration to “Unaffiliated,” I continued to vote for the person and not the party. During my twelve years of service on the Colorado Transportation Commission, I came to realize that the residents of the Front Range and Denver/Boulder in particular lacked any knowledge or background of our unique lifestyle. Indeed, many, many residents of the I-25 Corridor think that Western Colorado is like Vail. Consistently, we are relegated to the corner of the room.

It will take a unique person to be able and willing to stand up to the political pressures encountered in our Legislature. Fortunately, we have such a person in Naomi Riess. Naomi is a hardworking and long-term member of our community and understands the challenges and pressures that she will be facing as she serves as our legislator. She will not be tied to supporting the Denver-Boulder power structure. She will be a real listener. I will be voting for Naomi when my ballot arrives. I hope you all will as well.

Steve Parker