Breckenridge – Gary Lindstrom, a freshman state representative and former coroner, is joining the Democratic race for governor, saying the state needs a vision to limit out-of-control growth.
“We have a five-bedroom house and we’re inviting 20 people to stay. We’re marketing something that’s over-capacity,” he said.
Lindstrom, 63, will face former Denver District Attorney Bill Ritter, the only announced Democratic candidate. Rutt Bridges, a wealthy think-tank founder, withdrew from the Democratic campaign in August.
Rep. Bob Beauprez and former University of Denver President Marc Holtzman are seeking the GOP gubernatorial nomination, hoping to replace GOP Gov. Bill Owens, who is term-limited.
Ritter has been criticized by some in his own party for opposing abortion. Lindstrom said he is pro-choice.
Lindstrom said politicians are afraid to speak out for fear of not being elected.
“Many of them position themselves for a greater political office and think they may hurt their position,” he said. “The state highways are a disaster. But everybody’s afraid to confront (director) Tom Norton and the Colorado Department of Transportation.”
Lindstrom said attempts to address water shortages also have fallen short.
“Nobody’s got the backbone to stand up and say, ‘We’ve got to take care of the infrastructure,”‘ said Lindstrom, who supports small reservoirs.
