The information below was submitted to the Front Porch by the candidates:

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FEDERAL OFFICES

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United States Senator

MICHAEL BENNET

Background:
Michael and his wife, Susan, a natural resources lawyer, have lived in Colorado for nearly 20 years and live in Denver with their three daughters, Caroline, Halina and Anne.

Education:
Michael graduated from Wesleyan University and Yale Law School.

Experience:
Before working for Colorado in the U.S. Senate, Michael was a successful businessman and superintendent of Denver Public Schools, where he worked with teachers, parents, students and school administrators to end the cycle of budget cuts and underachieving that plagued the district. In the private sector, Michael helped turn around failing businesses and protected jobs.

Why people should vote for me:
–In a time of hyper-partisanship, Michael is taking on Washington dysfunction and working across the aisle to get things done for Colorado.
–He has introduced legislation with Colorado’s Republican Senator Cory Gardner to prevent the possibility of another government shutdown. He’s fighting to end the automatic pay raises that members of Congress receive, and pushing to enact a lifetime ban on members of Congress ever becoming lobbyists. And he wants to overturn the Supreme Court’s disastrous Citizens United ruling and get dark money out of our politics.
–Michael is working to reduce income inequality by fighting to improve job training programs, increase the minimum wage, ensure equal pay for equal work, and end tax breaks for companies that ship American jobs overseas.
–He helped pass a law to get rid of No Child Left Behind, helped write bipartisan legislation to fix our broken immigration reform system, passed a bipartisan law to speed up approval for breakthrough therapy medications to help cancer and cystic fibrosis patients and is fighting to make college more affordable for everyone.
–Michael believes that the best way to break through dysfunction in Washington, D.C. is Colorado common sense. He will continue to listen and work across the aisle to make progress and create more opportunities for all of Colorado.

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Representative to the 115^th United States Congress – District 1

DIANA DeGETTE

Background:
I am a proud 4^th generation Coloradan. I grew up in Denver and have lived in Colorado my entire life.

Education:
I graduated from South High School, received my B.A. in political science from Colorado College, and my J.D. from New York University School of Law.

Experience:
–In my eleven terms serving the Denver metro region, I have established myself as a leader for progressive change on health care, reproductive rights, food safety, consumer protection and the environment.
–In 2005, I was promoted to the House Democratic leadership as Chief Deputy Whip, a critical role in ensuring passage of key pieces of legislation.
–I also serve on the powerful Committee on Energy and Commerce, where I have used my position to expand medical research, reform corporate business and accounting practices, ensure that our homeland is adequately protected, take on global climate change, and move America toward energy independence.

Why People should vote for me:
–I am the only candidate on the ballot who knows how to get things done for our community and I have dedicated my career to my constituents. I am a leader who works hard to pass commonsense progressive legislation. I worked with my colleagues in the House, on both sides of the aisle, to ensure affordable healthcare for all, modernize our public transportation system, and protect and create jobs and opportunities.
–I am extremely proud of my achievements in Congress, but there is still so much more to accomplish. We must continue to fix and expand affordable health care, protect reproductive rights, improve our economy, create an equal environment for all, and work to make government more efficient.

CHUCK NORRIS

Background:
I grew up on a family farm in northern Illinois.  I first lived in the Denver metro area in 1968, again from 1979-1986, and now since 1992.

Education:
I hold a Bachelor of Science in geology (1969) from the University of Illinois, a Master of Science in geology (1970) from the University of Washington, and I did post-Masters study in geology at the University of Illinois.

Experience:
My qualifying experience is life.  I am a parent and a spouse.  I am a working geologist with more than 40 years of experience.  I am a small business owner of a company I started more than 20 years ago.  I know the physics and chemistry of surface- and groundwater, of the atmosphere, and of the earth.  I know how businesses and regulators work.  I have more than 30 years’ experience as a Democrat in the trenches; dropping literature, phone banking, canvassing, serving as precinct committee person, and consulting to campaigns.  I have experienced for almost 40 years what Denver expects of, and deserves from, its Representatives at all levels.

Why people should vote for me:
I will bring scientific knowledge and perspective to Congress.  It will be a fresh perspective to a body sorely in need of something beyond lawyers and career politicians.  CLIMATE  I understand at my core what we are doing to our planet and the urgency to stop it now.  COMMUNITY  I understand we are fraying the very fabric of our society.  We are eroding past gains on criminal, racial, and social justice; voter access; health care; equitable wealth; fair and equal pay; gender and LGBT rights; and educational opportunity.  CASH  Each of these problems can be solved.  They can be solved, however, only if we – as a community and society – get the unlimited and corporate money out of politics.  My campaign accepts donations only from people – not corporations, not lobbyists, not special interests, not political parties.  Politics may be the art of the possible, but leadership is the ability to make what is necessary and right possible.  I will bring leadership to Congressional District 1 on Cash, on Climate, and on Community.

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STATE OFFICES

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Regent of the University of Colorado – At Large

This candidate did not respond to our requests for information.

ALICE MADDEN

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Regent of the University of Colorado – Congressional District 1

JACK KROLL

Background:
Jack Kroll is a Park Hill native and graduated from Denver South High School.

Education:
A proud alumnus of CU-Denver with degrees in English literature and economics, Jack is wrapping up his term as the University’s Alumni Association president where he has helped the University raise nearly $300,000 in scholarships for students.

 Experience:  
–Professionally Jack serves as an Assistant Director of Admission at CU-Boulder. During his time with the Office of Admissions Jack developed and implemented the University’s program for bringing military veterans to CU. He also worked under the leadership of his fiancé, Vanessa Roman of Pueblo, who serves as the University’s chief diverse student recruitment officer, to grow the number of diverse students in CU Boulder’s freshman class by 30%. Jack and Vanessa have played integral roles in the University’s last four freshman classes, which have successively been the University’s largest, most academically talented, and diverse.
–While in college, Jack Kroll held office as the student representative to the Board of Regents, serving as the voice of the CU system’s 55,000 students, and helped shepherd in progressive policies, including: anti-discrimination against LGBTQ community members, in-state tuition for undocumented students, increased funding for campus services working with diverse student populations, and increased funding for campus services working with survivors of sexual assault.

Why people  should vote for me:
Jack brings a decade of experience in higher education. He is the only candidate to have served with the Board of Regents and the only candidate who works with students. As Regent Jack will work to: increase CU’s student diversity by shifting financial aid policies away from rewarding high stakes testing and wealthy students and towards serving those with the greatest need; increase pay and working conditions for adjunct faculty; and stem the tide of athletic spending which has seen the University make over $24-million in recent bailouts to the athletics department.

You can learn more about Jack and the “Roll with Kroll!” campaign by visiting krollforcolorado.com or contacting him at 720-289-2409 and jack@krollforcolorado.com.

LUCKY VIDMAR

Background:
I came to CU in 1990 as an 18-year old kid escaping the civil war in Yugoslavia.

Education and Experience:
I was a first-generation college student and English was not my first language.  But, with lots of help from so many people, I earned two engineering degrees from CU-Boulder, went on to start a software business, and later went to law school at night while working full time.  Today, I am a patent lawyer helping innovators and inventors.

Why people should vote for me:
–My American Dream story began at CU.  I am running to be your CU Regent to pay forward all the opportunities that Colorado has given me and to make sure that my story is repeated all over Colorado.
–The Board of Regents oversees the education of 60,000 students, sets tuition rates and controls a $3.5 billion annual budget, and takes care of 30,000 Colorado employees.   I have 20+ years of real world experience overseeing and managing complex operations like CU.  I have the independence necessary to demand accountability and transparency from CU’s bloated administration.   And, I bring a unique perspective of an immigrant and first-generation student to build campuses that are safe, inclusive, and welcoming to all.
–I have an optimistic vision for the future of CU.  Every day, each one of CU’s four campuses develops Colorado’s workforce, engages in world-class research, and promotes Colorado around the globe.  Every Coloradan has a close interest in making sure that CU remains a proudly public resource for folks from every Colorado zip code.
–I would be honored to earn your support and your vote.  All information about my campaign, including my contact info, is at www.VidmarForColorado.com.

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State Senator – District 33

ANGELA WILLIAMS

Background:
I was born and raised in Okmulgee, OK.  I have lived in Colorado for 26 years.

Education:
–Graduated from Morris High School, Morris, OK.
–Graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Northeastern State University
–Harvard University, JFK School of Government Certificate of Completion – Senior Executives in State and Local Government

Experience:
6 years serving as the State Representative of House District 7, a small business owner of 15 years , a mother who raised a son on her own, and a longtime community member.

Why people should vote for me:
–As the State Representative for the past 6 years representing House District 7, I have been a successful legislator who can bring people together on both sides of the aisle to find common solutions to issues.
–As one of the few minority women serving in the legislature, standing up for women’s rights and protecting and advancing the rights of Colorado women is a top priority.  I will continue to fight for equal pay and a woman’s right to control her own health decision.  For our community and for my son, I have taken action to implement police reforms.  Under my leadership, law enforcement now have improved training protocols, increased transparency, improved employment background checks, and body camera requirements.  I also helped make college affordable for thousands of Colorado students, including DREAMers, who now qualify for in-state tuition thanks to the ASSET bill I sponsored – and I will continue to work for more accessible affordable education for all Coloradans.
–In addition, improving life for working families remains a priority of mine.  I support increasing the minimum wage for Colorado workers. As a small business owner, I have always been a voice for small businesses, removing barriers and promoting growth.  And I will continue to introduce legislation that promotes equality for small minority businesses in State Procurement contracting and fight for job training and hiring.
–As your next State Senator, I will continue to listen to the community’s concerns and speak up for the community.  I will fight for affordable college for our students, work hard for jobs and economic development, senior services and health care.  It will be my honor to earn your vote on June 28th.

This candidate did not respond to our requests for information:

JOHN BIGGERSTAFF

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State House Representative – District 8

AARON GOLDHAMER

Background:
Aaron Goldhamer is a Denver Native,

Education:
Aaron attended Yale undergrad and Georgetown law school.

Experience:
Aaron is a certified teacher, and attorney who fights for people and small businesses who have been hurt by others in positions of power. He served as Captain of the House District 8 Democrats for four years, and received the Volunteer of the Year Award in 2014. He is a member of the NARAL Pro-Choice Colorado Board and the Rose Hospital Community Foundation.

Why people should vote for me:
Aaron will fight to raise the minimum wage, advocate for affordable housing in our community, defend every child’s right to a first-class education – regardless of their zip code, and invest in a green-energy economy. More info can be found at AaronGoldhamer.org.

LESLIE HEROD

Background:
Leslie’s whole life has been about serving her community – from her decade of experience in government to running her neighborhood small business.

She learned from her mother, an Army nurse, to lead by example and make tough decisions. Leslie was a student leader at CU, worked for us in the State Capitol with leaders like former Speaker Andrew Romanoff and former House District 8 Representative Rosemary Marshall, and served as Governor Bill Ritter’s Senior Policy Advisor on seniors and anti-poverty issues. She then helped the Gill Foundation lead on LGBT equality issues, and her small business helps create public-private partnerships in our community. Those are the progressive values and real action we need in the State House. You can find more information about Leslie and the campaign at www.leslieherodforcolorado.com.

Education:
University of Colorado – Boulder, BA in Political Science

Experience: Leslie worked with Colorado LGBTQ hero Tim Gill to help win the fight for marriage equality and with Bill Ritter on justice reform and anti-poverty issues to help improve equality in our community. As co-founder of New Era Colorado, Leslie is helping lead the effort to protect voting rights for everyone. Leslie is the only candidate in the race who has helped us get real progressive results.

Why people should vote for me:
Leslie will be a voice for our values in the Capitol. She’ll fight for real investments into our classrooms to support teachers and students. Leslie will work to make Denver affordable with a progressive housing plan so families can stay in their homes. Leslie will stand up to Tea Party extremists who try to take away a woman’s right to choose and make criminals out of doctors and women. Beyond her experience is her passion for the community, Leslie will bring people together to put our progressive values – strong schools, vibrant neighborhoods and real opportunity for everyone – into action for ourcommunity.

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District Attorney – 2^nd Judicial District

KENNETH BOYD

Background:
I was born and raised in Aurora, Colorado.

Education:
I attended Regis High School and received my undergraduate degree from Colorado State University. After working in my family’s construction business for a several years, I left to attend law school at the University of Denver.

Experience:
After law school, I clerked for the Honorable John Daniel Dailey on the Colorado Court of Appeals. As a senior deputy district attorney in Denver, I have tried cases in every unit of the office and devoted my career to justice, fairness, and public safety. I have specialized in cases involving domestic violence, the physical and sexual abuse of children, and the financial exploitation of seniors. In 2014, I was awarded the Denver DA’s Meritorious Service Award for my prosecution of the murder of a local elementary school teacher. I have also served as a liaison to the Denver Police’s Department’s internet sex crimes unit and currently represent the DA’s office on the Metro Auto Theft Task Force.

Why people should vote for me:
I am running for district attorney because I know the work, I know the people, and I have a real plan to take us in a new direction.

As DA, I will make it a top priority to rebuild trust between the community and law enforcement. I am committed to increasing transparency by establishing a Public Fact-Finding Review in cases involving the use of lethal force by law enforcement.

As the only democrat with experience prosecuting cases involving DNA analysis, I know firsthand that cutting-edge technology and forensic science solve crimes. I will continue to build a DA’s office that fully utilizes body cameras, shot-spotter, DNA, and computer forensics to help us protect the innocent and bring justice to victims.

Finally, I will work hand-in-hand with city officials to take a more modern approach to prevention, intervention, and treatment, including establishing a treatment-based mental health court so we can make sure younger and non-violent offenders don’t become hardened criminals.

MICHAEL CARRIGAN

Background:
I am from Denver. I grew up in Boulder. I have lived in Colorado my entire life, except for college and two years of volunteer service.

Education:
University of Colorado School of Law – 1994
University of Notre Dame – 1990

Experience:
I am the only candidate with experience on both sides of the courtroom serving six years as a prosecutor and many years representing criminal defendants and crime victims. This diverse background makes me uniquely qualified to bring a balanced perspective to the Denver District Attorney’s office. Additionally, I have significant management experience, after my 12 years on the University of Colorado Board of Regents (including two years as chair). In that role, I oversaw the $3.5 billion budget of Colorado’s third largest employer. As a CU Regent I led the fight to increase enrollment of students of color by over 50%.

Why people should vote for me:
–Denver needs and deserves a transformative leader who will make our city a national leader in criminal justice reform. I will focus on ending the school-to-jail pipeline by working to expand after-school and weekend programs to keep kids out of trouble. Instead of trying to arrest our way out of mental health, substance abuse and homelessness, I will focus on gun offenders threatening our community. It is time to address the decades old problem of racial disparities that pervade our court system.
–As the only candidate who does not work for the government, I am ready to rebuild trust in our law enforcement by prosecuting those who use excessive force. I firmly believe the best thing we can do for the vast majority of good officers is to prosecute the bad ones.
–My vision for a smart, modern approach to public safety has earned widespread support from Mayor Hancock to the Denver Area Labor Federation (DALF) and the Greater Denver Metro Ministerial Alliance.

BETH McCANN

BACKGROUND:
I was born in Radford Virginia. I am an Army brat and lived in several places including Taiwan/Japan. We lived in Blacksburg, Va. while I was in high school. I moved to Colorado in 1974.

 

EDUCATION:
B.A. – Wittenberg University; J.D. – Georgetown University Law Center

EXPERIENCE THAT PREPARED ME FOR THIS POSITION:
Throughout my career I have worked to improve the criminal justice system. I served as a chief deputy district attorney in Denver for several years, trying all levels of cases. I was the Manager of Safety for Denver, managing one of the largest city agencies. As a state legislator I make the law. I worked with the community to develop the Safe City plan to keep kids away from drugs, gangs, and violence. I also supervised over 30 trial attorneys in the Attorney General’s office.

As a legislator, I passed a major human trafficking bill that strengthened our laws. I stood up to the powerful gun lobby when I sponsored bills to require universal background checks and to keep guns out of the hands of domestic abusers. I passed a bill to provide kids with due process when they face charges as adults.

WHY SHOULD PEOPLE VOTE FOR ME:
—Denver should be in the forefront of criminal justice reform. I am uniquely qualified to lead the office in that direction. I am the only candidate who has prosecuted the law, managed a large office, and made the law. When I see injustice, I take action, and I get results.
–A central goal of mine is to improve the juvenile justice system with a focus on crime prevention. I am committed to rebuilding trust between our communities and law enforcement but if officers break the law, I will hold them accountable. My office will work to reduce mass incarceration and eliminate bias. I will seek alternatives for those suffering from mental illness and substance abuse.
–I oppose the death penalty and have voted to repeal it.
–As your next district attorney, I will bring experience and commitment to make Denver a leader in criminal justice reform. I will provide justice for all and keep our communities safe.
mccannfordenverda.com