There’s an unspoken rule among former governors (and football coaches): Stay out of the way of your successor, don’t publicly second-guess, and never Monday morning quarterback.
I have tried to uphold that principle over the past two months since Election Day. I’ve met and talked privately numerous times with Gov.-elect John Hickenlooper. I’ve made my Cabinet and staff completely available and accessible to the governor-elect’s team to ensure a smooth transition, and I am confident the Hickenlooper-Garcia administration will serve Colorado extremely well in the years ahead.
There is no shortage of advice for politicians and newly elected leaders. Here are a few suggestions for Colorado’s 42nd governor:
Travel the state as much as possible. Get outside the Capitol and the urban metro area. Like the Beltway in Washington D.C., the radius around the statehouse can be confining and not at all representative of the unique perspectives, challenges and opportunities found in the rural communities of the San Luis Valley, Eastern Plain, Western Slope and Northern Colorado. Colorado is easily divided by its vast geography, and we must honor the people who make each region special. But the governor also must strive to unite the state around common goals, aspirations and solutions. It can be a difficult balancing act, but meeting with people in their own communities provides an invaluable opportunity to listen and gather input.
Use your Cabinet as a collective body. The governor’s Cabinet is composed of nearly 30 highly talented individuals with great knowledge about their specific area of expertise. But Cabinet members also can serve as ambassadors for the entire administration. In a state this vast, a governor needs many representatives out in the communities explaining not only what the administration is doing, but also why.
Honor fallen military and public-safety personnel. It is important for the governor to represent the citizens of this state at funerals of fallen military and public-safety personnel.
Appreciate the impact of budget decisions. Recession-caused budget shortfalls will continue to pose challenges for several more years. Know that the decisions you make can have profound impacts on the children, families and businesses of Colorado.
Respect the legislative process. Work closely with legislative leadership, as lawmakers play a strong role in budgeting and setting policy.
Finally, be bold and have fun. There is no better job than being governor, especially when challenging times require strong leadership.
Bill Ritter Jr. is Colorado’s 41st governor. He has served from 2007 to present.
