The contest for governor of Colorado was finally called 14 hours after the polls closed. Former U.S. Rep. and NFIB Guardian of Small Business award winner Bob Beauprez came within 1.5 percentage points of unseating Gov. John Hickenlooper.
Main street business owners were disenchanted with Hickenlooper’s signing of bills viewed as detrimental to the business community by opening the doors for frivolous employee lawsuits. However, NFIB/Colorado, on behalf of its members, congratulated the governor on his reelection and look forward to again working together for the betterment of Colorado small-business owners.
As of this writing, it appears Republicans have captured the Colorado State Senate by one seat. Currently nine NFIB-endorsed candidates won their elections to the State Senate. NFIB endorsed a total of 31 House of Representative candidates, and, as of this writing, 24 have been victorious.
Indications are that Democrats will remain in control of the House of Representatives, again with some races headed for recounts. Slow processing of ballots by some counties is delaying final outcomes.
The hidden story of this election is NFIB-member Richard Bowman, who six months ago decided to run against a three-term incumbent of the House who was proud of her 33 percent NFIB voting record. A newcomer to the political arena, Bowman sought NFIB’s endorsement and guidance in planning his campaign. He came within 3 percentage points of taking the seat. Congratulations to Richard, and our thanks for sacrificing his time and resources for the betterment of Colorado’s small-business community.
- How State Legislators Voted. The issues and votes that determined endorsements for incumbents.
- How Congress Voted. The issues and votes cast that determine endorsements of incumbents.
- Hold Candidates to the Five Small-Business Tests
Denver Post guest editorial by Tony Gagliardi and Dan Danner
National Get-Out-The-Vote Program
- News Release–NFIB Launches National “Vote for Main Street” Campaign to Activate Small-Business Communities and Voters in 2014 Elections.
- What does it mean to be a Small Business Certified candidate?
