Republicans trying to regain control of the state Senate were dealt a blow Wednesday when a well- known candidate pulled out of a competitive race in southern Colorado.
State Rep. Mark Larson, who is prevented by term limits from running for re- election to his House seat, said he dropped his challenge to Democratic Sen. Jim Isgar in the sprawling eight- county District 6 for personal reasons.
“It’s time to re-establish priorities, look at the income situation,” Larson said.
The revelation stunned politicos because Larson was viewed as the Republicans’ best shot at winning the district. A Larson victory could have swung control of the Senate back from the Democrats, who hold it by one seat.
“It means the Republicans aren’t going to win the Senate. That was an important seat to take,” said longtime Republican Sen. Norma Anderson. “He was our best opportunity.”
Democratic Senate President Joan Fitz-Gerald agreed.
“Both Larson and Isgar fit their districts respectively very, very well,” she said. “I never count things until they’re really over, but it certainly makes the holidays a little bit brighter.”
Considered a maverick who often bucked his party because he believed it was in his constituents’ interests, Larson said he did not run his decision by party brass.
“(I) didn’t play the party game. I’m thinking they may be somewhat relieved that they might be able to get a person that’s more philosophically attuned than I was,” he said.
But Anderson said Republicans “will be disappointed because he is so well-liked in that district.”
Isgar said Larson’s decision will improve the Democrats’ chances of maintaining Senate control.
“It’s a relief not to run against him not just because it’s a tough race, but because he’s a friend and we work together well on things,” he said.
Staff writer Chris Frates can be reached at 303-820-1633 or cfrates@denverpost.com.
