Colorado: Perlmutter Out...Of Politics

​As was speculated upon two days ago, US Rep. Ed Perlmutter (D-Golden) did in fact formally withdraw from the Governor’s race during yesterday’s special announcement news conference.  It appears the Congressman will not only be exiting the statewide campaign but is retiring from elective politics, altogether.  He reiterated that he will not seek re-election to the House even after departing the Governor’s race.  Mr. Perlmutter reportedly has lost his fire for elective politics, didn’t relish having to run against his congressional colleague Jared Polis (D-Boulder) in the statewide primary, and is said to no longer find “joy” in campaigning.  The Congressman will serve the balance of the current term.  The Democratic gubernatorial race now features Rep. Polis, former state Treasurer Cary Kennedy, and businessmen Noel Ginsburg and Adam Garrity as active contenders.  Gov. John Hickenlooper (D) is ineligible to seek a third term. The open Denver suburban 7th CD is likely to remain Democratic.