Because so many people admire the BCS college football Bowl System (cough, hack, yawn), we here at the Inside Edge came up with a similar methodology to measure the power and prestige of Colorado politicians.  

Like the BCS Bowl System, it consists primarily of a computer-based simulation engine. The engine has sophisticated algorithms that predict the behavior of party activists, lobbyists and politicians under various scenarios.  It also has spell check.  

In short, it’s like a mini-caucus on our computer. Except in OUR simulations, Congressman Doug Lamborn walks into highway traffic at the end of each caucus. We’re still trying to figure out if the tragedy is caused by a glitch or if it’s just validation of our methodology. It’s really sad watching that little cartoon Doug Lamborn character gasp and writhe in pain. I mean the character in our simulation, NOT the one in real life.

Shame on you. 

Also, like the BCS Bowl System, the results from our simulation must meet strict criteria in order to be considered valid.

Firstly, the results must make angry the widest numbers of people who feel slighted because their favorite politicker was left off, or not ranked high enough or they can’t believe that old what’s-her-name was included, etc.  Oh the fun of computers! 

The second criterion is that the politicians on the list must reside in Colorado. 

The Top Ten Power Positions in Colorado

Updated April 1st, 2008

1)      Governor Bill Ritter- Swerve left, fake right, go down the middle. Looks pretty successful to us.

2)      Dick Wadhams- Dick has improved his set up quite a bit. And his cash flow.

3)      Ken Salazar- Is the VEEP boom real? Probably not. Salazar could fall further.

4)      Joan Fitz-Gerald- The favorite in the 2nd CD, because the other two are terrible.

5)      Bob Schaffer- All the hopes of the GOP rise or fall on Schaffer.

6)      Andrew Romanoff- Making good use of his position to set the tone.

7)      Marilyn Musgrave-Marilyn hearts McCain. And it’s working for her.  

8)      Tom Wiens- Leadville showed what the man can do when he puts his mind to it.

9)      Bernie Buescher- Bernie’s making a play for a top spot in Dem leadership.   

10)      Mike Coffman- Coffman run reminding us of Beauprez’s run for Guv. Something’s just not working.