BY FREDA MIKLIN
GOVERNMENTAL REPORTER
Mike Johnston and Kelly Brough are locked in a close runoff for Denver mayor. Ballots go out beginning May 15 and must be returned by election day, June 6.
On May 10, it was announced that four more candidates in the mayoral primary have endorsed Johnston, Ean Tafoya, James Walsh, Terrance Roberts, and Al Gardner. He also picked up endorsements from State Sens. Julie Gonzales and James Coleman. Said Tafoya, “Together, we can take advantage of the federal and state money that people here on this stage have worked together to create. I do believe that Mike is the kind of leader who listens to us… We’re seeking compassionate solutions for those who are most vulnerable in our community.”
Sen. Coleman said he was endorsing Johnston because, “Together, we can take advantage of the federal and state money that people here on this stage have worked together to create. I do believe that Mike is the kind of leader who listens to us… We’re seeking compassionate solutions for those who are most vulnerable in our community.”
On May 8, Local 858 Denver Firefighters endorsed Kelly Brough, saying, “She’s an honest leader, who tells you what you want to hear if she can. But more importantly she tells you what you need to hear. She has been consistent, honest and fair, and has always made sure that the citizens of Denver are taken care of.”
On May 1, Denver’s Police Protective Association (DPPA), the state’s largest police organization, gave Brough the nod. DPPA President Tyson Worrell said, “Kelly is the only candidate in this race with the executive experience and knowledge of how to run this city. While serving as John Hickenlooper’s Chief of Staff, we witnessed firsthand Kelly’s ability to face tough challenges and to bring people to the table to solve those challenges. We believe that she has realistic solutions and can work collaboratively to build a culture where law enforcement has the training, the equipment, and the community support necessary to meet the many challenges our city faces,”
On April 21, Johnston was endorsed by AFSCME Council 18, which represents public workers across Colorado and New Mexico. Sean Hinga, AFSCME Colorado legislative and political director said, “AFSCME members are the public service workers who dedicate their careers to keeping Denver safe, healthy, and strong. That’s why we’re thrilled to endorse Mike Johnston for Mayor. Throughout his career, he has been a strong ally for working Denver rights. He fought to increase the minimum wage and ensured workers have the protections and benefits they need to thrive. As a former teacher and school principal, Mike also understands the challenges that public service workers face and is committed to building a strong public service workforce that is ready to respond to the needs of our community.”
We previously reported that Johnston has been endorsed by State Rep. Leslie Herod, who also ran in the April 4 primary, coming in 5th, and that he has been endorsed by former Denver Mayor Federico Pena.
We also previously reported that Brough has been endorsed by State Sen. Chris Hansen, who also ran in the April 4 primary, coming in 6th, and that she has been endorsed by former Denver Mayor Wellington Webb.
Both candidates also hold major newspaper endorsements, Johnston from the Denver Post and Brough from the Denver Gazette.
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