In House District 22, which spans portions of Lakewood and south Jefferson County, the buzz has been around the Democratic primary.
The seat is held by Rep. Ken Summers, R-Lakewood, who has no GOP opponent. One of his Democratic opponents made negative headlines this month and delivered the support of party brass to his opponent in the process.
Camille Ryckman, a 38-year-old former schoolteacher, scooped up a handful of endorsements last week after her opponent, Vince Chowdhury, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor assault charge for slapping his daughter.
Chowdhury, 48, a Jefferson County school board member, was arrested June 17 after his 16-year-old daughter told police officers that he slapped and choked her for being “disrespectful.” Chowdhury pleaded guilty July 8, and received a one-year deferred judgment. He must also attend anger management and parenting courses.
The Jefferson County school board asked Chowdhury to step down, which he has not done.
As news spread about Chowdhury pleading guilty, 18 state Democrats — including House Speaker Andrew Romanoff — threw their support to Ryckman.
Chowdhury hung up on a reporter when asked to comment on the race.
The most recent campaign finance reports showed Ryckman has raised $10,057. Chowdhury has raised $2,300.
Christopher Sanchez: 303-954-1698 or csanchez@denverpost.com
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