This blog covers news and action from around the state of Colorado. As a resident of the 5th Congressional District I'll be weighing in from time to time on the current Primary between incumbent Doug Lamborn, second place 06 candidate Jeff Crank, and area newcomer Bentley Rayburn.
This specific post will be a few of the logical reasons why 5th Congressional District residents can and should support the Primary. This is in response to some supporters of the incumbent (and others) who have stated strong opposition to the entry of Crank and Rayburn into the race.
First, this Primary is an excellent opportunity for Representative Lamborn to clearly demonstrate, after his first term in Congress, the strength of his support within the District. Considering the 60/40 party split favoring Republicans, primaries are critical in the 5th CD. Rep. Lamborn won the 2006 Primary with 26% of the vote (clearly not a "mandate"). Winning a 2008 Assembly and Primary could offset a number of troublesome actions by Representative Lamborn. These actions and the resulting news coverage are, in fact, as significant a reason as any to welcome a healthy primary.
- Bartha Voicemail Flap
- Frank Mail Abuse Criticisms
- Pikes Peak National Monument Issue
- Pinon Canyon & Fort Carson
- Lamborn's vote against Allard's anti animal cruelty bill
Second, our form of government is brilliant in its system of checks and balances and a two year term provides a constant reminder to Congressional representatives that they must closely and carefully support the desires of their constituents. Too often the same voices that insist, for example, that our President appoint judges who are strict constructionists of the Constitution, overlook the wisdom and the balance that two-year terms bring to our political system and even speak out against an incument being challenged.
In conclusion, Representative Lamborn should welcome this challenge as natural and healthy. I am just an average guy interested in local politics but am certainly not a rabid activist; I am not altogether pleased with our Congressman so far, I believe there is room for improvement.
I don't know enough to presume whether Lamborn is truly vulnerable. I do know that in my professional business experience, a little competition for a job is healthy, not negative.
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