It's the Senate for Bennet
Denver schools superintendent is Gov. Ritter's choice to replace Salazar
By M.E. Sprengelmeyer, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)
Published January 2, 2009 at 9:22 a.m.
Photo by Chris Schneider / The Rocky/2007
Denver Public Schools superintendent Michael Bennet will be named Saturday as the future U.S. Senate replacement for Interior Secretary nominee Ken Salazar.
Gov. Bill Ritter is shattering conventional wisdom in tapping the popular but politically untested Michael Bennet, superintendent of Denver Public Schools, as the U.S. Senate replacement for Interior Secretary nominee Ken Salazar.
The surprising move, expected at a state Capitol news conference Saturday, perplexed many political insiders, most of whom considered Bennet the darkhorse candidate in a field crowded with big name, political veterans like Bennet's old boss, Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper.
To some, the reaction wasn't head-scratching.
It was jaw-dropping.
"I'm very surprised. He's improbable. He's risky," said pollster Floyd Ciruli, who figured the little-known Bennet would barely be a blip in the polls because he's so unknown. . "He's qualified, and he could be a really, very special and sensational senator. But at least initially, from the political side of it, you are puzzled."
Bennet's selection was confirmed by multiple Democratic sources, all of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity to avoid pre-empting the governor's announcement. Ritter's office only announced the 2 p.m. news conference. Bennet declined comment, as did various top-level Democrats who had been informed of the decision.
The selection was unconventional, just like Bennet and his unique political résumé.
A graduate of Wesleyan University and Yale Law School, he started his career in the legal field and was counsel to the deputy U.S. Attorney General under former President Bill Clinton.
He later moved into the business world and relocated to Denver, helping the Anschutz Investment Company reorganize and turn around "distressed" companies like Regal Cinemas, United Artists, Edwards Theaters and the energy company Forcenergy.
In 2005, the Denver Board of Education plucked him from the mayor's staff to become Denver Public Schools superintendent, and he made his name reforming the pay-for-performance plan and wrestling with budget challenges.
"His strengths are that he has clearly got a lot of ability ... running the Denver school system without it blowing up is probably one of the more impossible jobs in the state," said political consultant Paul Talmey of Talmey-Drake Research & Strategy.
Still, Talmey was as surprised as anyone that Ritter bypassed "the obvious choice" — the better-known Hickenlooper.
"My sense of Bennet is that he has got to keep campaigning for the next two years, because he doesn't have the name recognition," Talmey said. "He's obviously a very bright guy. He has never held a public (elective) office, so there's not much of a track record there to run on or run against."
Already, Republicans are preparing to paint that blank canvas by putting Bennet's votes under a microscope, particularly on economic and labor issues and other matters that are expected to surface before the 2010 re-election contest.
"I'm obviously very surprised," said state Republican Party chairman Dick Wadhams. "And I'm perplexed by the appointment, especially when you had someone as formidable as Mayor Hickenlooper who clearly had political and financial bases of support to draw from in 2010.
"Because he has his own polititical persona right now, Hickenlooper would not have been as defined by the votes ... whereas Mr. Bennet — while there are many admirable things about Mr. Bennet — he will be defined by the votes that he casts," Wadhams added.
But he has some Republican fans, too. Bruce Benson, president of the University of Colorado and former state GOP chairman, called it "a super pick."
"He's very bright. He's very principled. This is a guy who gets things done," Benson said. "He's a deep thinker. He sticks his neck out and takes chances. If you're going to accomplish anything in this world, you have to stick your neck out."
"Bennet will increase the overall IQ of the U.S. Senate tremendously," said Denver City Councilman Charlie Brown. "He's a smart guy."
Still, most of Bennet's fans are in and around Denver. Elsewhere around the state, he'll need a bigger introduction — particularly in places where various local newspapers were endorsing a different candidate, outgoing state House Speaker Andrew Romanoff.
Gil Cisneros, president and CEO of the Chamber of the Americas, had supported Polly Baca's hopes of becoming the first Hispanic woman to serve in the U.S. Senate.
Appointing Bennet "could be a coup for Republicans in 2010," Cisneros said. "He doesn't have any election experience where he's had to run for office. I think he's a carpetbagger and doesn't have a lot of experience with Colorado."
There is some irony in Bennet's selection. He had been touted as a potential Education Secretary in President-elect Barack Obama's cabinet. But when he found out he didn't get the job, he broke the news before going into a DPS board meeting by shouting down the hall: "I'm not going to Washington!"
Ritter, observers say, is sticking his neck out by asking Bennet to make that move, especially since they'd likely end up running for re-election on the same ballot in 2010.
The wisdom of the selection is in debate, but the surprise was near-unanimous on Friday.
"If the governor was looking for an unconventional, outside-the-box selection, this meets that qualification," said Democratic consultant Steve Welchert. Asked if that was a good or bad thing, Welchert said, "The judgment is yet to be made."
Staff writers Lynn Bartels and Daniel Chacon contributed to this story.
Winners and losers
WHO'S HAPPY
Education reformers
Michael Bennet has built a reputation for innovation, including solutions that have at times angered traditionalists. Sen. Chris Romer, a Denver Democrat and fellow reformer, called him "one of the best intellectuals I know."
President-elect Barack Obama
Before he was a surprise pick for the U.S. Senate, Bennet was a surprise finalist to become secretary of Education. Senate President Peter Groff, D-Denver, said Bennet represents what Obama wants in a senator — someone who is younger, not tied to Washington, D.C., and thinks in new ways.
Denver city officials
Several City Council members had feared the possibility of Mayor John Hickenlooper getting the job and leaving his post as they work to close a $56 million budget gap. Hickenlooper may not be happy he didn't land the appointment, but he reportedly told confidantes that if he didn't get it, he wanted it to go to Bennet (his former chief of staff).
WHO'S NOT
Unions
Several union leaders said Friday that they want to see what it's like to work with Bennet, but he has his detractors, especially among the teachers union. Bennet had to cut that union's power to achieve his biggest reforms, and another union — the Teamsters — endorsed Joan Fitz-Gerald for the Senate seat, even though she was seen as a long shot.
Rural Democrats
Party and community-organization leaders outside the Denver area took up a grass-roots campaign to get outgoing House Speaker Andrew Romanoff the job after he traveled the state and attended meetings in their areas for four years. Cathy Shull, director of Progressive 15, said that, unlike Hickenlooper, Romanoff actually had been to the Sterlings and Fort Morgans of the state.
Romanoff supporters
Romanoff has spent the past several weeks soliciting endorsements from community groups and small-town newspapers, and his fan base is more passionate than that of any other applicant. While most of the candidates who did not get the post go back to prominent positions, Romanoff is term-limited from his House post and needs a job.
Ed Sealover
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January 2, 2009
9:35 a.m.
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Now_You_Know writes:
NO Republicans!!!!!!!!!
January 2, 2009
9:37 a.m.
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DougH writes:
Do you suppose the citizens in Colorado are more interested in who the next U S Senator is or who the next Bronco head coach is ?
January 2, 2009
9:38 a.m.
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Fireball writes:
No, your statement should read: "No Republicans ???"
January 2, 2009
9:41 a.m.
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HopiMedicineMan writes:
It would be no surprise if Ritter appointed Ritter.
An aside: For a week now as I go out early to welcome the sun, I notice no Denver Posts on my neighbor's driveways. Did the Post go out of business?
January 2, 2009
9:46 a.m.
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Diff writes:
DougH -
I would vote for Bill Cowher for either of the positions!
Seriously tho - it is interesting to note that the Broncos head coaching situation seems to take the lead both in the eye of the public and the media. (of course the public interest is driving the media coverage)
I would bet at least small money on Hick....
January 2, 2009
10:02 a.m.
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Who_Me writes:
"Denver Public Schools superintendent Michael Bennet is expected to be named Saturday as the future U.S. Senate replacement for Interior Secretary nominee Michael Bennet, according to two Democratic sources who spoke on the condition of anonymity."
What??!!?? Is the reporting at RMN that bad? Yes it is. Colorado has two Michael Bennets, I guess. Had no idea whatsoever the other Michael Bennet did an Invasion of the Body Snatchers pod-like body hijacking of Salazar and is now the Interior Secretary nominee.
January 2, 2009
10:13 a.m.
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HopiMedicineMan writes:
Comments above Who_Me are now obsolete. The story has been revised. And if Intrepid Bartels says it, I believe it.
This is a brilliant choice. Leap frogging Bennet ahead of all the others shows how unqualified Ritter considers Dem elected officials. Bennet is an attractive candidate who does what he's told and will vote the party line. Nothing he can say or do will make a difference. His only job is to get elected.
January 2, 2009
10:17 a.m.
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Dub writes:
The reason Bennett is selected is that the NEA, Teachers Union, and the other labor unions will pour money into the re-election. Ritter and the liberal/labor machine at work, laying the foundation for MO' TAXES.
January 2, 2009
10:18 a.m.
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danirobi writes:
Colorado law states that if a sitting U.S. were to pass away, leave office or be selected for a cabinet position, that seat must be filled by a member of the same party, hence why Ritter selected a Democrat to replace a Democrat...this should make 2010 interesting for the Republicans (in a good way)
January 2, 2009
10:26 a.m.
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ofcourse writes:
Shananhan's available and wouldn't it be nice to have a non-lawyer, politician in that role. Besides he's proven to be a good planner, and proven ability to dodge the media when the team doesn't perform. Perfect fit.
January 2, 2009
10:31 a.m.
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Proud_American_Citizen writes:
Dub - you must not know any DPS teachers. Do not expect teachers in DPS to spend time or money on Bennett. If he is selected, may his senate reign be SHORTLIVED!
January 2, 2009
10:34 a.m.
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GunnyBob writes:
A staggering drop-out rate in Denver schools, huge numbers of Denver students who can't even come close to reading at their grade level, scores of Denver high school graduates who require remedial instruction in their freshman year in college, out-of-control gang violence in Denver schools . . .
Yes, this incompetent man will make a fine liberal senator.
January 2, 2009
10:36 a.m.
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wowbmw writes:
Way to go Ritter! When I contemplated the list as it grew, the only individuals who brought a smile to my face were Romanoff and Bennet. I've worked with them indirectly on projects where it was vital that they listened and then demonstrated leadership. Bennet is a serious guy who follows up, seems honest and gets off on being a true public servant.
January 2, 2009
10:50 a.m.
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jbowen43 writes:
I don't know anything bout this guy and if I don't then neither does most of the state's grass roots Democrats. That will make it tough for him to win election to the seat. I would gladly support and work to get Andrew Romanoff elected if this guy isn't spectacular. It's on him to prove himself.
January 2, 2009
10:53 a.m.
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HopiMedicineMan writes:
GunnyBob
Sorry to say, they’re pulling Bennet before he can own the performance of Denver schools. The teachers own it, having long ago traded rock solid discipline for wisps of creativity.
January 2, 2009
10:53 a.m.
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LOUIE writes:
Smart move regardless of party affiliations, he thinks on his feet as to what is best for the group as a whole. My only worry is Denver Public Schools, who is able to match this man's ability? I always had a deep respect for Mr. Bennett, he has show a capability to do what is responsible for the greatest benefit of the people as whole. Mr. Ritter, you've shown me there was a reason as a conservative unaffiliated voter that I chose you over Beauprez, you have shown to have put the state above political agenda, and chose the best man. Now what about Denver Public Schools, it needs a vast overhaul. I know a great candidate Mr. Hinckenlooper, he's already shown great ability with very little; think a Yale graduate instead of Harvard this time, think of West Denver Prep and a man named Gibbons. Mr. Bennett, I wish you well!
January 2, 2009
11:14 a.m.
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MGD writes:
I agree with Gunny. On Christmas I was talking with my 16 year old nephew and asked about his classes. He said he read some short stories and drew pictures for his 10th grade literature class and that he is now done with the math offered at his school.
Denver and Colorado public schools are a mess and now the top DPS official is rewarded for his poor stewardship of this wayward program.
January 2, 2009
11:21 a.m.
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ManginoTorreta writes:
Is this really a good idea? Bennet's most noted action so far has been closing Manual and trying to build it from the ground up, which needed to be done, but the first freshman class hasn't even gotten through school yet and now he's probably going to the Senate.
I would have preferred Romanoff, who has shown actual administrative and legislative ability as a state majority leader, or John Salazar, who's a Blue Dog. At least it wasn't a Kennedy, so we are already a mile ahead of New York in that respect.
January 2, 2009
11:27 a.m.
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LOUIE writes:
Andrew Romanoff, the politician who keeps trying to gut the taxpayers bill of rights, (TABOR) so he can raise taxes without a vote of the people? Mr. Professional poilitician, verses Mr. Accomplished Businessman? Andrew Romanoff hasn't accomplished anything but getting elected to office as a professional politician. Mr Bennett worked turning around failing businesses for one of our nations most successful businessmen; he has far more experence than Romanoff in the real world of business verses the comfort of the taxpayers dole. I don't like Hinckenlooper, but he was pretty much accomplished in business before becoming a politician. I liked Ari Zavaras more than Hinckenlooper, Mr. Z has proven ability. Professional politicians regardless of party affiliation pale in comparision to those who have shown and proven ability in other areas outside politics. I am surprised Ritter chose Bennett if he did in fact, Mr. Bennett has by far greater proven abilities than Mr. Romanoff. Shows me Mr. Ritter is truly looking at the best man and not party politics in selecting Mr. Bennett. I've said this many times before, the man Mr. Bennett once worked for turning around failed businesses suffers no fools; Mr. Bennett was able to accomplish great things in the world of business outside of politics. Business is falling down, our economy in shambles, this was an excellent choice by Mr. Ritter regardless of party affiliations. Bennett is a proven horse, Romanoff was just a kid doing the bidding of senior party members as a professional politician.
January 2, 2009
11:29 a.m.
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LOUIE writes:
What has Romanoff accomplished outside of political office? I'm listening...
January 2, 2009
11:35 a.m.
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jglovinsky writes:
I am happy to have him replaced too. How about Hickenlooper for superintendent!!! We need someone with a sincere passion for improving schools not someone needing the job as a stepping stone (on the backs of teachers) to any higher profile job they could get. I think becoming a superintendent is a step up from any political position in Colorado. As head of DPS you can really impact lives and change the world. Mayor, consider it please.
January 2, 2009
11:36 a.m.
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DougH writes:
Louie. Just a thought, isn't being a US Senator sort of like holding a political office ? We just had a Veterinarian as a Senator and he didn't do a thing for Colorado, so maybe someone that understands politics would be a good politician.
January 2, 2009
11:41 a.m.
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LOUIE writes:
GUNNY, I don't think Mr. Bennett is as liberal as you think. Manual was a failing school for decades, same with Rischel and others. Eve Dennis didn't do anything to improve public schools, nor did any other superintendents. This man isn't scared to bring change. For those who elected Mr. Obama wasn't that the mantra? I'm a conservative and I remain unaffilliated because I try to vote for who I feel is best able to lead our nation as a whole. I voted for Ritter over Beauprez , Coors over Salazar, and each time I looked at the man not the party. I can't think of one accomplishment Romanoff has done except getting elected and doing the bidding of the upper echelon of his party. I especially didn't care for him or Ritter trying to gut the TABOR. Times are hard, it should be the people's choice if they want higher taxes, not the politician.
January 2, 2009
11:46 a.m.
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BetterEducated writes:
Here's a first: I am so shocked I can't think of anything to say.
I THOUGHT Denver had resolved to keep Bennet at DPS because he was needed there.
Nothing about this place makes any sense to me, and I was BORN here, LOL.
January 2, 2009
11:53 a.m.
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303Centennial writes:
Bennet screwed up the DPS, the teachers are unhappy as well as parents and DPS has a high drop out rate. What has he done for DPS and Colorado --- NOTHING!
What experience does Bennet have over an existing and experienced congressman/woman, state rep, or other political leader. Looks like Chicago politics has made its way to Colorado. Nice Job Ritter -- a one term Gov.
What is the Hickenlooper, Ritter, Bennet relationship?
January 2, 2009
11:59 a.m.
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jay writes:
as much as some of our more extremist posters would like to lay the decades long condition dps on bennett's lap, he has taken positive, necessary steps to improve our system. he was a final candidate to join obama's fairly centrist cabinet as education secretary.
sometimes political loyalties can blind you as easily as staring into the sun.
from a political standpoint, bennett is very popular with denver residents, therefore galvanizing a huge voting bloc in plenty of time for the next senate race.
savvy choice.
January 2, 2009
11:59 a.m.
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caroman writes:
Great reporting by the Rocky. Denver and Colorado will be poorer when we are left with only the Denver Post.
January 2, 2009
noon
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LOUIE writes:
DOUGH, there are some rather good politicians, but usually they have accomplished something outside the political arena as well. We need business here in Colorado, the economy is going south. Mr. Bennett was well accomplished not as a Veternarian as you mentioned, but as a man who was one who could take failing businesses and turn them totally around and produce profit. Business are failing nationwide, what experence does Romanoff have in the world of business? Teacher's unions and many others firmly entrenched in decades of failure, lined up against him as superintendent, they opted for the status quo that for years had been failing for whatever reason. This man was about results, he saw many children being failed by a system that for decades resisted change. He made the hard choices for the better good of the system, just like he once did in failing businesses. Even though his work at Denver Public Schools hasn't been completed, test scores have risen. If Hinckenlooper choice is a poor one, DPS will return to the old status quo of decades of failure. That's a worry.
January 2, 2009
12:01 p.m.
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snowbelly writes:
Will someone please tell me why a school super is somehow qualified to be a senator. He must have some real dirt on ritter.He joins a litany of the unqualified in washington.
January 2, 2009
12:03 p.m.
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dpsparent writes:
I am so happy for this choice. Maybe we will be able to find a person the run the schools so the kids can learn and the teachers can teach.
January 2, 2009
12:05 p.m.
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BetterEducated writes:
Dear snowbelly,
The answer to your question is.......um........it's........it's.......uh.......wait just a minute, I'm gonna come up with it any second now.
January 2, 2009
12:08 p.m.
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jay writes:
why should we even bother with wingnut conspiracy theories about "dirt on ritter", b.e?
it's not worth it...just partisan drivel.
January 2, 2009
12:18 p.m.
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Earthside writes:
We don't need a middle-aged white guy who cut his teeth working for an uber-conservative billionaire (Philip Anschuetz) as a U.S. Senator from Colorado.
Are there no exceptional Democratic women who could be nominated?
A very SAFE, uninspired choice if this turns out to be true.
January 2, 2009
12:18 p.m.
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LOUIE writes:
JAY, don't tell these people that! They were happy with the decades of failure, high dropout rates, failing schools like Manual, Rischel. and others. They think Bennett, whose only been their a short time was responsible for decades of failure. Change, the teachers union and other fight against it hard; sad but change was exactly what was needed in public schools. When it comes to the teachers union what have they done for the kids lately or in the past 20 years of failure to help these kids that were dropping out and failing? Put Mr. Gibbons, a Yale grad, in charge from West Denver Prep, watch the entrenched scream then. Mr. Gibbons believes in kids, he made a rose bloom amongst the least in education. Like Bennett a Harvard grad, the union would fight him tooth and nail, even though we all know we need to change a system, that for all the reasons you'll ever hear, has been failing for decades. Bennett was a success and the system fought him, Gibbons is a current success and they'd fight him, time to back success and stand up to failure. Bennett was a great choice by Hinckenlooper even though I don't care for Hinckenlooper. His next choice will be crucial for DPS if Bennett is put up to the senate.
January 2, 2009
12:25 p.m.
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COLibertarian writes:
Jay and Louie
Bennett has successfully brought in some outside help and it will start payind dividends in about 6-8 months. Unfortunately the new people being brought in can not be put in place until the current "contracts" have been completed for the incompetents!
It is easier to let these contracts run out than it is to fight them. Until then it will be a slow improvement. Hope that the new lady taking the job will continue with the plan put forth by Bennett.
January 2, 2009
12:28 p.m.
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LOUIE writes:
Your right EARTHSIDE, we need another professional politician to put us in a soup line instead of someone who had the acuments to be successful in the world of private business. Is it the billionaire status that bothers you? They say he's extremely humble and family orientated, and they say his kid Christian is no different; so it has to be his money and not his character your worried about.
January 2, 2009
12:35 p.m.
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BetterEducated writes:
COLibertarian, I'm confused by your comments.
Bennet was already on board at the time those unexpired contracts were executed, no?
Also, your text implies the next super has already been selected. Can you enlighten us, please?
January 2, 2009
12:40 p.m.
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Cwillyrun1 writes:
"Change" the Democrat party wants us to believe in. Great! This guy wasn't all that good for Denver Public Schools and now he could be our Senator that we didn't even elect.
jay, what's the problem? If it's speculation on a Republican, it's not "partisan drivel" but when the talk is against a Democrat, you brush it aside with that label? Come on jay, you're dumb, but try to see the failure in your logic...... overcome the "partisan hack" that you are.
January 2, 2009
12:43 p.m.
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COLibertarian writes:
BetterEducated,
Yes on too many of those contracts he was there. But, in my opinion had not been there long enough to weed a lot of that insanity out. YES it would be nice to just jump in and clean things out immediately, but I think his restraint was warranted. I think there are a lot of good people in DPS that are "managed / manipulated" by a few. Hate to think that good people being thrown out just for the sake of "Change". I think he was well on his way in making good.
The 2nd piece? Lady? Have no real insight, but have friends that were hoping for a specific lady to take the post when Bennett was being talked about for Cabinet position. I am just thinking positively for that person :-)
January 2, 2009
12:57 p.m.
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rage_against_the_stupid writes:
It's time for the educrats and the teacher's union to get some crony back in power. The D.P.S. are about to fall further down the cliff of failure and no amounts of increased spending will make any difference. The liberals can not admit failure and children suffer. They still defend "busing", the most distructive policy ever forced upon public education in the past century.
January 2, 2009
1:33 p.m.
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LOUIE writes:
Wow, I thought he was a Harvard grad, not Yale. My mistake apparently. I know Mr. Gibbons is a Yale Grad for sure.
January 2, 2009
1:36 p.m.
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JohnHKennedy writes:
Is Republican Phil Anschutz's former right hand man the best choice for replacing a Democrat in the US Senate?
Or would someone like Mile Miles, a Democrat
that has actually run for the Senate and that the Democratic base wanted, the base, you know the people who are going to be needed to help get Democrats re-elected in 2010?
I never thought Salazar was much of a Democrat, given that he promoted the corrupt Gonzales for confirmation by the Senate as US Attorney General and supported the confirmation of all the right wing Republicans to the US Supreme Court.
This appointment suggests to me that Ritter is afraid of a major back lash from the big money types in Colorado who may rebel if a Democrat is appointed who might be even a little bit to the left of the very conservative Democrats we now send to the Senate..
Funny how Colorado Democratic political leaders keep the base at arms length, completely ignored between elections, but when the next election time rolls around, oh boy, lets work together.
Given how important our Denver Public School System is to our kids, keeping Bennet there makes more sense, If our kids future is really important.
And since the Democratic Party won the election, appointing a highly qualified Democrat who is more to the left of Salazar would be a breath of fresh air.
Given that Bennet has never run for office how can anyone be sure that he can raise lot of money?
Unless of course, the rich, powerful and connected men
have already pre-approved him.
So I say again
Ritter should appoint MIKE MILES
the Superb Colorado Democrat who the Democratic party assembly actually elected to be the Senate candidate (in the election where Salazar somehow ended up being the candidate).
“Well ahead of his time Mike Miles ran for senate in 2004 on many of the same issues that propelled Barack Obama to the White House this year” Larry Dunn Westminster
“Mike Miles has a background as a leader in education and the military and foreign service that is unique among all who are interested” Joel Leventhal , PhD Lakewood
"Mike Miles could win many Republican votes during reelection, since he is the only candidate with distinguished military service. He is also the candidate with the most foreign affairs experience since he was an Ambassador to Poland and Russia. I believe he would also be very attractive to independent voters and minority voters with his mixed Asian-African American ethnic heritage" Cliff West
Call the governor at 303-866-2471
Colorado's Democratic Base wanted
Miles Over Salazar in 2004
and the other candidates don't have the distinguished military service or foreign affairs experience that Mike Miles has.
Isn't it time that Ritter gave the Base, the dedicated loyalists who do most of the hard work to elect Democrats,
the candidate They Wanted?
January 2, 2009
1:48 p.m.
Suggest removal
LOUIE writes:
Looked up Bennett's record as superintendent the last 3 1/2 years. He increased early childhood education development enrollment 40%. Put in 25% more full time kindergarten slots. Increase math scores at the middle school grade levels 9%, reading by 10%. Overall in three years he posted 6.2 % gains in reading, 6 % gains in math. Not bad for a "failure", who had to fight every inch of the way.
January 2, 2009
2:01 p.m.
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Cwillyrun1 writes:
kennedy.......... hahahahaha, if you think Mark Udall leans any which way other than far, far left, you don't know politics. Udall was just voted in and he's a very liberal Democrat, not the conservative Democrat you wish to think he is, huh? If the voters wanted Miles, he would've been voted in by the residents of Colorado, not just the Democrat voters.
Democrats should be careful about how they're taking voters in Colorado for granted. Colorado may be a swing state with many independent voters, but there are still more registered Republican voters than Democrats and that likely won't change. Unless the Californians keep moving here, that is. Colorado keeps getting closer to California in political ideology, and for all of the losers from there that moved here, if you like the politics you had, don't move. THIS is Colorado, not California!
January 2, 2009
2:14 p.m.
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milehiloco writes:
"Senator Michael Bennet" -sounds good to me!
January 2, 2009
2:31 p.m.
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DLPF writes:
oh great, our governor of Vermont, inexplicably living in the Colorado governor's mansion, appoints an East Coast carpetbagger. How fitting. Neither of these posers has ever been west of Golden.
January 2, 2009
3:56 p.m.
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BetterEducated writes:
I'll bet lots of people who supported Obama think Bennet is a poor choice.
It's that look on his face, just for starters. (Which I would attribute to his being able to escape DPS, where the Impossible Task seems apparent within the first year.)
Here's another bet: his wife is ecstatic. No, I don't have any inside information. I'm just imagining how MY husband would feel, coming home with the real goop on DPS all over him (again)....and taking the wild imaginative mental leap from Stressed Husband to Miserable Wife.
January 2, 2009
4:13 p.m.
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mcgraw08 writes:
Hey Louie, I have an idea why don't you go and be Bennett's campaign manager. I really don't know where you get your information from, once again tell me how Bennett all alone improved the scores. I have never seen him in the classroom teaching, my goodness he is a miracle worker. Of course the teachers according to you don't do anything what so every to make an impact.
January 2, 2009
4:17 p.m.
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Salsmom writes:
way to go Ritter - appoint someone from Denver who probably has never stepped foot in many of the rural and outlying communities of Colorado and has no clue what their issues or needs are.
January 2, 2009
4:34 p.m.
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law1 writes:
The Denver Post should hire Lynn Bartels if the Rocky fails.
January 2, 2009
4:40 p.m.
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denverrose writes:
Because DPS got bad grades while on his watch of course it is his fault that DPS is the way it is. He wants to take credit for all Ritter and others credit him with so he also has to take the blame. That is what being a leader is ALL about. Grow up guys! Get a backbone, take responsibility. Bush who you hated took the responsibility for things done so don't be a baby and man-up to how weak this man really is, how ineffective he is. God help Colorado!!
January 2, 2009
4:43 p.m.
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LOUIE writes:
I don't think Mr. Bennett needs any help on the campaign trail.LOL! I saw and met the man at my daughter's school, maybe you should meet the man McGraw08. If someone was in charge of influencing my job and the quality of what was being produced, I'd want to meet the man. You sound pretty intelligent, you might be able to bring something rather valuable to the table. I'm a parent and I was quite pleased he took the time. Teachers do make a difference, but changes were quite necessary as too many schools were unsatisfactory; matter of fact every school in my neighborhood except West Denver Prep and KIPP. I think it's time for a change, you apparently like the system as it is. Don't worry, I'm sure any progress Mr. Bennett made will be reversed and we'll go backwards if the change doesn't continue forward with the next superintendent. You'll be happy again, wait and see!
January 2, 2009
4:49 p.m.
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reginacucina writes:
Is Gov Ritter kidding? A one-issue guy? Seriously? With the problems we're facing in this country? Where does this guy stand on the wars, abortion, global warming, the economy, corporate bailouts, affirmative action, etc.? Not only that - Bennet has never run a campaign, has no name recognition and lacks any serious legislative experience. This is a bad political mistake for Ritter and a terrible choice for Colorado. Mr. Bennet can join the Republicans who are doing the woo hoo dance right now.
January 2, 2009
5:05 p.m.
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LOUIE writes:
Anybody superintendent who takes over DPS will be like the man in mythology cursed to roll a rock uphill for all eternity! Most have just stood aside and let it roll downhill regardless of how many children were in it's path. I agree with some of the other posts that stated Bennett was needed more where he is as superintendent. I would think many teachers will be delighted he is going if he does. As a parent of 5 children, 4 who have been through the failing DPS system for the last 20 years and still counting, I'll miss his ability to stand up to the status quo of perpetual failure and excuses.
January 2, 2009
6:22 p.m.
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FCZ writes:
Pay to Play is not just in Chicago.
Now : The union bosses will be happy to donate money and deliver union members for the Ritter re-election campaign.
January 2, 2009
6:26 p.m.
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GJNative writes:
Wow - can't believe the D's selected a ten year resident of the state to represent us in DC - quite a contrast to the multi-generation resident of Ken Salazar. At least Ken knew the state beyond Denver. But I'm sure Bennet feel back at home in the East and voting with all the big liberals - protecting their interests, not ours. Way to go Ritter - hope it seals your fate and Bennet's in the next election and you are both thrown out.
January 2, 2009
6:55 p.m.
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WeloveDenverkids writes:
FCZ, exactly. Pay to play is now the name of the game in CO. Follow the money trail....
January 2, 2009
7:38 p.m.
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jugdish writes:
Bennet is certainly less liberal than the 'Looper! Feel blessed we didn't get Ward Churchill. Maybe that's what we deserve.
January 2, 2009
7:38 p.m.
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TheDenverB writes:
now who takes over DPS?
someone get monte moses out of retirement.
January 2, 2009
9:36 p.m.
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mcgraw08 writes:
Louie I have met the man and he doesn't impress me. He knows very little about the needs of our students. It doesn't surprise me that you met him at a charter school. Why doesn't he come into the the public schools and meet with his teachers???? What change has he influenced???? Again are we going to blame the schools instead of looking at our own backyard. Remember you blamed the schools for failing the Hispanic community, and didn't say what the Hispanic community has done to help its own. Bennett hasn't done what he said out to do, he abandoned the Denver Plan and has instituted a different agenda. We need someone who will actually implement change and look at the needs of our students. Louie, you really don't know what you are saying, again there are some teachers and administrators that don't do what they need to do, but there are many who try and their hands are tied by people like Bennett and the school board. We don't need a one size fits all curriculum like they want, out students are different and we need to allow them to learn the best way that they can, with the help and support of their parents and community
January 3, 2009
12:06 a.m.
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1961native writes:
How does Gov. Ritter justify nominating someone who has not resided in Colorado long enough to have a clue about all the issues regarding the wellbeing of our state? I seriously am wondering, is our Governor attempting to sell the Colorado Senate seat in a similar manner as the Governor of Illinois has been charged of? This nomination makes no rational sense. Does Michael Bennett have any idea about water issues, environmental issues, pollution concerns, energy development, economic development of rural Colorado, aviation, highways or transportation concerns that pertain to our state. It is my understanding that this gentleman has been a resident of Colorado for a very short time in respect to getting any understanding of how the state as a whole values these concerns. In addition, the great majority of the time that he has resided in our fine state has been spent in the very limited area of Denver and the I-25 corridor. Please tell me, does Mr. Bennett even know where Pagosa Springs, Springfield, Rangley, Erie, Montrose, Holly, Fowler, Durango, Craig, Frazier, Sterling, Fort Morgan, Walsenburg, Alamosa, Lamar or any of the other fine rural communities within our state are located ? Governor Ritter alienated and disregarded the entire state outside of the metro area by nominating someone who has no clue as to how to represent the rural concerns. All I can come up with to explain such an aggregious act of misrepresention by nominating an individual without any understanding of the concerns of the citizens of the state of Colorado is that perhaps Governor Ritter has some underlying motivation (or bribary) to warrent his action. Perhaps it warrents investigation or even impeachment proceedings. It would be nice to see one of the TV news channels or local papers investigate this nomination because I do not beleive this nomination is not what the people of the state of Colorado would support. Perhaps the Rocky Mountain News or Denver Post can poll the state to see how many people across the state actually think this nomination is representative of their interests.
January 3, 2009
12:19 a.m.
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derecho64 writes:
The process of the governor picking a Senator (out of a hat, apparently) is far less democratic and susceptible to political game-playing than a special election. As we've seen with this pick, and in New York with Caroline Kennedy, and in Illinois with Blago, leaving something as important as a Senate seat to a governor's whim is rather dangerous.
Arizona, Alaska, and Massachusetts all hold elections to fill vacant Senate seats; how many folks here would favor Colorado doing the same?
January 3, 2009
7:35 a.m.
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DenverNo1 writes:
While this appointment is great for Bennet (and probably the senate), as a DPS parent, I'm deeply saddened that he will be leaving. I think he did a fantastic job. With as bad as test scores were, they had actually improved a great deal under Mr. Bennet's reins. He was the first to acknowledge there was still a long way to go. Who can continue his great work? Who has what it takes?
I personally hope they could find someone to break the union so we can focus on our kids' education again...
January 3, 2009
8:34 a.m.
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toocool writes:
This appointment clears the way to easier dump Hickenlooper in the next election.
January 3, 2009
9:14 a.m.
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Who_Me writes:
Yes, any paper would want to hire reporters from another company when they can't even get the names straight. The original version of this story was totally boofed up in identifying Bennet as the new Interior Secretary.
January 3, 2009
11:51 a.m.
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Barbarosa writes:
This is an incredibly stupid move. Let's see, Ritter appoints a guy who has never campaigned for one day of his life, who is completely unknown outside of Denver, and has minimal ties to Colorado. Not to mention that he's almost certainly way too freaky-deaky liberal for 90% of that segment of the state that doesn't happen to live in Boulder or Denver. Right, smooth move there, Bill. You've pretty much guaranteed a Republican in that office next year.
January 3, 2009
12:34 p.m.
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PaleoConservative writes:
It's the Peter Principle in action.
January 3, 2009
2:01 p.m.
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Brain writes:
Bennett has made some changes in DPS that are not Union supported and not like a typical Democrat, other than that it is hard to know what his views are (conservative or liberal), apparently he is a registered Democrat. I will be interested in watching how he votes over the next 1.5-2 years; so far as I can tell at this time he is more conservative than most Dems; for me that is good. I just might vote for him in 2010 depending on how he votes and I have rarely voted Democrat in the last 20 years.
January 3, 2009
2:36 p.m.
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LSentrik writes:
Oh, this is just great.
January 3, 2009
3:02 p.m.
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thomyris writes:
People should check out the New Yorker profile of Bennet. At the very least he's a principled and unusual guy.
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/20...
January 5, 2009
9:19 a.m.
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mmm58 writes:
Shame on you Ritter! Why did you bother to ask for Public input? We all know that Bennet is not the leader you are portraying. He has been difficult with the teachers union, but has simply kicked the support staff to the curb! He will be representing the "little people?" I don't think so. The rumor was that he was only using DPS to add to his resume and now it's actually true! I'm very tired of watching all these NON-COLORADOANS making decisions for us! I thought you knew better and now I have to question my vote for you as well. Shame! Shame! Shame!