DENVER-
Former Western Slope congressman Scott McInnis announced Monday he has filed paperwork for an exploratory committee for a possible run at Sen. Wayne Allard’s seat, which becomes vacant once the two-term senator retires next year.
McInnis said he’s been meeting with people from across the state since Allard, a fellow Republican, announced last month that he was stepping down, campaign manager Susan Smith said.
Filing exploratory committee paperwork with the Federal Election Commission means McInnis can raise money while he decides whether to run. A formal candidacy announcement could happen later.
McInnis has about $900,000 left over from his congressional campaign fund, which could be used in his bid to replace Allard, Smith said. Some have said the race could cost $20 million, which would make it the most expensive in state history.
Rep Mark Udall, D-Colo., has said he plans to run, though he has not formally declared. Besides McInnis, Republicans mentioned for a possible bid include former gubernatorial candidate and congressman Bob Beauprez and state Attorney General John Suthers.
McInnis represented the sprawling 3rd Congressional District from 1993 to 2005.
