Face the State

Face The State Staff Report

As Republicans pick new local leadership and prepare to put the ugly 2008 election behind them, top 2010 contenders are making their intentions clear. Former state Sen. Mark Hillman of Burlington, previously speculated as a 4th Congressional District candidate, has declared he will not run for office, while former Congressman Bob Beauprez has publicly indicated his interest in a run against U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet or Gov. Bill Ritter.

Hillman was one of a handful of names mentioned as a potential challenger against Democrat Betsy Markey in the 4th CD, but instead he plans on being a full-time father and party activist.

"About six months ago my wife and I had a little boy," Hillman told Face the State. "That has drastically rearranged my priorities, at least for the time being. I think whether you are running for state office or a congressional seat it takes a lot of time and commitment and it has to be a top priority. Right now that's just not a commitment I'm willing or able to make."

Hillman added that as a National Republican Committeeman and activist for multiple limited government efforts, he "intends to stay very involved in helping our party move forward, win elections and return to the principles of limited government and constitutional freedom."

The Colorado Statesman also reported over the weekend that Bob Beauprez, who unsuccessfully challenged Ritter in 2006, is "seriously considering" a run for the U.S. Senate against Bennet or a re-match in the 2010 gubernatorial race against Ritter. Speculation about Beauprez's aspirations began in October and, as of now, it appears that if Beauprez formally files to challenge Ritter, he will likely once again face a primary, as he did in 2006 against Marc Holtzman. Other speculated GOP candidates include Rep. Don Marostica of Loveland, former state Sen. Tom Wiens and political newcomer Cleve Tidwell.