Cortez businessman Scott Tipton predicts a unified Republican push to unseat Democratic U.S. Rep. John Salazar as he officially announces his bid for the Republican candidacy today in the 3rd Congressional District.
“I think as a Republican Party, we’ve learned a lesson. We can’t afford to tear ourselves apart,” said Tipton, referring to a free-for-all race for the Republican candidacy in 2004 that ultimately went to Greg Walcher of Grand Junction. Salazar defeated Walcher, 51 percent to 47 percent.
Tipton, who owns Mesa Verde Pottery in Cortez, was the dark horse in that primary. But this time around he has collected more than $223,000 in early campaign funds.
He has support from Republican heavy hitters, including former 3rd District Rep. Scott McInnis and Lt. Gov. Jane Norton, who announced Wednesday she would not run for the seat.
Tipton said other Colorado Republicans who have told him they will endorse his candidacy include Sen. Wayne Allard, District 54 state Rep. Josh Penry and 58th District Rep. Ray Rose.
He said three other failed GOP hopefuls from the 2004 race – Greg Rippy, Matt Smith and Dan Corsentino – have also promised support. Tipton said he has not been able to reach Walcher.
Tipton said he expects to be the only Republican candidate going into the primary.
“That’s not to say somebody won’t fall out of bed one morning and say, ‘By golly, I think I’ll run,”‘ Tipton said.
Rachael Sunbarger, communications director for the Colorado Republican Party, said she is not aware of any other Republicans who intend to enter the 3rd Congressional District primary in August. “But it’s still early,” Sunbarger said.
Tipton, 49, has been chairman of the Colorado Republican Party’s 3rd District for eight years.
He said he’s used his long-established party connections as he has been cutting a hectic path through the 29-county 3rd District, garnering support and dollars.
Tipton planned to make his first announcement this morning at his Cortez business before driving to Grand Junction and then flying to Pueblo. Friday and Saturday he plans announcements in Glenwood Springs, Montrose and Durango.
Staff writer Nancy Lofholm can be reached at 970-256-1957 or nlofholm@denverpost.com.
