“Knew Schaffer was crooked. Never really bought that pure act of his. Nice to see someone finally expose the vapid jerk.”- Posted by Rep Reprise

Schaffer didn’t look so vapid when he was parasailing off the Mariana Islands. We saw the picture on ColoradoPols, just like everyone else. You can see the TPM video that explains the whole story in a nutshell. 

This looks like a pretty good start to putting a foot on Schaffer’s throat by the Udall camp. The fact that they are trying it so early means the Dems are worried.  

“Why do you pick on a good marine? He may not know how to write, but he does know how to fight, for his constituents. Thankfully we have someone making sense on energy for once. I don't see anyone else in the race talking about the issue.” – Posted by Huraah

Because the Marine in question is applying for a job to United States Congress. And he seems to be failing the written portion of the exam. A lot of congressfolk don’t know how to write. They make up for it by hiring someone who can do it for them.   

“How can you include Debbie Stafford on your list? It took a lot of guts to stand up to the ring-wing nuts in her former party and stand for principle.” - Posted by ET324

Stafford was one of those right-wing nuts too, once upon a time.

There are legitimate reasons to leave your party.

Churchill did it (twice). Lincoln did it too. But they both did it over compelling issues of conscience.

We don’t think that construction defects bill, one way or another, lives up to that standard.

“What’s the inside story on Wiens abrupt decision not to run for re-election?” –LB

We don’t think there is a great inside story there. As has been speculated in other places, Wiens plans on running for Governor. “Plans on” being the operative words. He may or may not. If we had to bet money, we’d say he won’t in 2010.

Being in the minority at the legislature can be a drag. You get to see all of your bills die in committee, generally with a 4-3 vote. Why would someone with the ability to make money or pursue an interesting profession subject themselves to that year after year if they have other options?

The answer of course is that most people wouldn’t subject themselves to it. That’s why the Colorado Legislature is made up of a lot of mediocrities. People with other options beside government take those options.

Thanks for reading and writing. Have a great weekend and we’ll see you again on Monday!

Wally