Why I voted for Bill Ritter

Step 1: I'm a Democrat - It'd be unfair not to mention it. Any of the Democratic frontrunners (Ritter, Hickenlooper, Romanoff) had a lead over the usual Republican suspects (Beauprez, Holtzman, McInnis, Norton) going in.

Step 2: Ritter wants the job - While the other Democrats considered their options, Bill Ritter started campaigning, issuing positions and choosing his runningmate. I voiced my support for him on November 19, 2005.

Step 3: A man of character - Ritter's life story is about hard work, sacrifice and a deep commitment to social justice. I quickly became convinced that I could feel good casting my vote for him, even if we differed on some issues.

Step 4: Ritter proves he's a leader - On December 9, 2005, I met Ritter for the first time. I was impressed by his mastery of healthcare and education issues, as well as his encyclopedic knowledge of Colorado. But I doubted he'd ever be described as a inspirational leader.

I was wrong. Over the next few months, Ritter proved his political deftness with his New Energy Economy, which talked about the economic opportunities presented by the greening of Colorado. He also launched visionary, audacious plans for Colorado's healthcare and transportation systems.

By June of 2006, I was more than pro-Democrat. I was pro-Ritter.

Step 5: Both Ways Bob - As a congressman, Bob Beauprez was a rubber stamp for the administration's distastrous budget and failed foreign policy. Then he flip-flopped his way through the Republican gubernatorial primary and even apparently broke the law in pursuit of political power. On June 23, 2006, I launched the Both Ways Bob Watch. It is the most-viewed archive on Coloradolib and frequently receives links from Daily Kos, Square State and other blogs.

Two weeks ago, I filled in the Ritter circle on my ballot. Between now and Tuesday, I hope every voter in Colorado will do the same.

Photo courtesy of Ritter for Governor.