You probably know Ben Nighthorse Campbell as that Colorado Democratic Senator who switched parties a few years back. He’s retiring (in all likelihood, his seat will be taken by Pete Coors) this year — but that doesn’t mean he’s done with politics. Denver’s own 5280 magazine has the scoop:
U.S. Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R-CO), who in March threw Colorado politics into a panic with his announcement that he would retire from the Senate, is now considering a run for governor.
In an exclusive interview with Denver’s 5280 magazine, the 71-year-old Senator says his decision would depend on the career path taken by Colorado’s current governor, Bill Owens.
“For instance, if between now and the end of his term, he was picked for the Cabinet or some very important position by President Bush, and then our Lt. Governor became the Governor, I don’t think I would challenge her,” Campbell tells 5280. “It’s not in the best interest of the party to have an in-house fight among high-level Republicans.”
But if Owens were to finish out his term as governor, Campbell says his options would change. “If the seat was open however, I might consider it. I’ve had a number of people call and ask if I would consider it,” he says.
Republican, Democrat, whatever — I’d vote for Ben.
Join the conversation as a VIP Member