The rumors started about this weeks ago, but early this morning in an e-mail to supporters state Sen. Dan Grossman announced that he would not be seeking re-election in 2006.
There was talk that Grossman might actually resign his seat rather than finish out the 2006 legislative session, but he made it clear in his e-mail that he will finish out the session. Grossman’s departure will not likely cost the Democrats this seat, but it will open up an interesting free-for-all in a Democratic primary. Former CU Regent candidate Jennifer Mello will run, and term-limited state Rep. Fran Coleman will also likely make an attempt. Former Denver DA candidate Beth McCann was also rumored last spring to be interested.
The wild card here will be Speaker of the House Andrew Romanoff, because Grossman’s seat was the next available step for him after he is term-limited in 2008. Most challengers would likely step aside for Romanoff if he wants to run for this seat, but if he does not, then he’ll need to find another, more difficult race in four years.
As for Grossman, the decision not to run for re-election is not thought to be anything other than his need to find a better-paying job and to spend more time with his family. You can’t fault him for either of those reasons.
To read the full e-mail from Grossman, click below…
Ten years ago this month, I wandered into the State Capitol as the youngest member of the General Assembly. I was energetic, idealistic and more than a little naive about the legislative process. Three terms in the House of Representatives and one in the Senate later, I haven’t changed much.
For most of the past ten years, I have defined myself in terms of my political career. It has been the primary focus of my life. On October 25, 2004, that changed rather dramatically. My daughter, Leah, was born, and has quickly become a source of immeasurable joy for Robin and me. We love parenthood so much that we have “scheduled” the arrival of Leah’s sibling for this June.
Today, I define myself primarily in terms of my growing family. I am a proud father and a committed husband. Devoting time and energy to my family has become my first priority. And, at this time, a political career is not consistent with that priority.
While it seems to me that, absent unimaginable and unexpected wealth, age 37 is too young to retire from anything that doesn’t require physical prowess, this session will be my last. I am tremendously grateful to the good citizens of Senate District 32 for granting me the honor of representing them in the Colorado Senate and I am comforted by the fact that several talented and committed people have expressed interest in taking my place in 2007.
I have not made any final decisions about my post-legislative career. I am exploring some exciting opportunities in law and policy and I am confident that I will remain involved in politics, just not as a candidate anytime soon.
In the meantime, I am looking forward to an exciting and productive session and continuing to work on improving public safety, protecting civil rights and advocating for clean water and air and open space. There still is much work to be done.
Thanks for indulging me and thank you for the honor of representing you.
Regards,
Dan Grossman
P.S. Although I am gravely disappointed by the Broncos’ loss today in the AFC Championship (I tend to bleed orange and blue), the outcome of that game had no influence on my decision explained above.
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Romanoff was first elected in 2000, meaning he will be termed out in 2008, not 2010 as you suggested. Awkward phasing for him, indeed. If he runs for the Senate now, he forfeits the chance to be speaker another two years, assuming dems hold the house.
Jennifer Mello should run. She is brillant and would make a great Senator. She did such a great job during the regent race with such little time she had to run. Go Jennifer go!!!
Josh Hanfling will run and win.
Josh Hanfling will run and win.
Josh Hanfling is going to run
Josh is going to win Josh will be a great Senator
Does Josh have a child with computer access?
Does Josh have a child with computer access?
Jennifer Mello has been a strong leader for years as captain for House District 6. Jennifer is knowledgeable, energetic, personable, accessible and dedicated to representing all constituents. She will make a superb State Senator.
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