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House Republicans give Bradford warm reception

By Lynn Bartels, Rocky Mountain News (Contact), Ed Sealover, Rocky Mountain News

Published November 6, 2008 at 9:31 p.m.

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Bernie Buescher says goodbye to members of the House.

Photo by Ken Papaleo / The Rocky

Bernie Buescher says goodbye to members of the House.

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This is what happens when you knock off the Democrat who was expected to become the next House speaker:

You get a standing ovation when you are introduced at the House Republican caucus.

Laura Bradford's victory over two-term Rep. Bernie Buescher, D-Grand Junction, clearly invigorated Republicans.

The Mesa County businesswoman seemed embarrassed by the attention, asking her soon- to-be colleagues to sit down.

Bradford beat Buescher by 583 votes, according to unofficial results from the Mesa County clerk. Before Bradford arrived at the GOP caucus, Buescher showed up to shake hands with Republicans. He then spoke to the House Democratic caucus.

"I had anticipated being here in a slightly different role," he said, referring to what was assumed to be his election as House speaker.

Buescher said that Democrats should take two lessons from his loss.

"Take the threats and challenges that show up in your election very seriously," he said, and mentioned Focus on the Family.

Buescher later said that the group falsely claimed in radio spots, ads and mailings that he voted for legislation to let male child molesters use women's

restrooms.

Buescher also urged Democrats to remember that other caucus members are in vulnerable seats. Republicans outnumber Democrats 2-to-1 in his district.