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DA says no to U.S. attorney job

By Sara Burnett, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published January 6, 2009 at 11:11 a.m.
Updated January 6, 2009 at 11:11 a.m.

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The man many considered the frontrunner to be Colorado's next U.S. attorney said Monday he is not interested in the job.

Adams County District Attorney Don Quick said he told Sen. Ken Salazar he can't leave his current office at this time. Quick's chief deputy, Sean May, was murdered outside his home last year, and several other top prosecutors in his office have left for judgeships.

"This is where I need to be right now," Quick said.

That leaves Salazar with several other possible candidates, and just a few weeks to send a name to the White House.

Among the Democrats being mentioned are Stephanie Villafuerte, deputy chief of staff to Gov. Bill Ritter; University of Colorado Regent Michael Carrigan and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer.

Willie Shepherd, founding member and chairman of Kamlet Shepherd law firm, also said Monday he has decided not to pursue the position.

"I am flattered I've been considered," said Shepherd, who helped raise money for the Democratic National Convention and is an adviser to president-elect Barack Obama's transition team. "I just don't think it's the right time for me and my family."

Salazar, who is expected to be confirmed as Obama's Interior secretary, said Sunday he wants to recommend a U.S. attorney as well as a U.S. marshal and two federal judges before he leaves office.

If he is confirmed as Interior secretary, Salazar would vacate his Senate seat — which will be filled by Denver Public Schools chief Michael Bennet.

Salazar said he will consult with Bennet and Sen. Mark Udall, who would be Colorado's senior senator, before submitting names.

The process is expected to go more smoothly than recent appointments for judgeships and U.S. attorney because both Senate seats as well as the presidency will be held by Democrats. The party also controls the Senate, which must vote to confirm all of the posts.

The new U.S. attorney would replace Troy Eid, a Republican who took office in 2006.

burnetts@RockyMountainNews.com or 303-954-5343