While just a handful of political hopefuls have formally filed as candidates for the 2010 election, this fact isn't stopping Republican activists from polling their favorites to run for governor, U.S. Senate, or secretary of state 18 months from now.
It all started with a straw poll at the Douglas County Lincoln Day Dinner in late March. The results showed overwhelming support for Aurora City Councilman Ryan Frazier as the GOP's pick for U.S. Senate. At the same dinner, Republicans favored Denver election attorney Scott Gessler for secretary of state. Gessler, who has actually declared his candidacy, prevailed over Arapahoe County Clerk Nancy Doty, who is waiting until next fall to make a decision.
And at a meeting last week, Denver Republicans took a straw poll on the governor's race, where Sen. Josh Penry, R-Grand Junction, emerged as the favorite.
If voters are just trying to send a message to their favorite candidates, hopefully Frazier, Penry and Gessler are listening. Republicans want you in 2010.