For years, victories for conservative candidates and issues were all but slam-dunk certainties in Colorado elections. But last week, voters gave a decisive thumbs-down to agendas pushed by local hyperventilators Douglas Bruce, Jon Caldara and the pro-voucher crowd. We seem to be opting for a more moderate, constructive and pragmatic mode of local governance.
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Bill Parmenter
Woodland Park
UPS driver
What does passage of Referendum C suggest about Colorado politics? Voters feel there's more need for public services, and they're willing to support them.
What's in store for the Alito nomination? I think he'll be confirmed if he has the stamina to hang in there. I agree with his approach of not letting personal issues get in the way of strict interpretation of the intent of the Constitution.
Will President Bush's decline in the polls continue, or will he rally? I think it'll stay pretty much like it is between now and the next election. People are dissatisfied because the war in Iraq is going on and on with no end in sight, and (there's) general dissatisfaction with the economy. Neither is likely to change.
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Sheila Helme
Patty Jewett area
Massage therapist
What does passage of C bode for Colorado's future? I think we're headed in a more progressive direction, looking to the future, not being so stingy and afraid. I'm disappointed D didn't pass, too.
What do you make of the District 11 school board election? That also signals a change in direction, away from the conservative norm to something more moderate. Conservatives usually win in Colorado Springs. This points to a desire for moderation.
What do you think about the county clerk and recorder not ordering enough ballots? That was a huge mistake. He apparently didn't think this election was going to be as important to people as it turned out to be. It'll be interesting to see if he gets re-elected.
What are your Supreme Court predictions? I predict that Alito will be confirmed. My desire is that he won't, because we should have a woman and someone more politically moderate, but that'll never happen with the current administration.
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Katherine Fatica
West side
Retired
What does passage of Referendum C suggest about Colorado politics? Everything in it improves things for everyone who lives in Colorado. It was necessary for upgrading infrastructure and bolstering education. People obviously wanted that.
What's your read on the D-11 election? The winning slate has better insight into what's needed in our schools. The winning candidates are everyday people who can relate to everyday needs.
What do you make of the ballot shortage? It marred the election. It must be discouraging to show up to vote and not get the chance. It suggests an attitude that their votes aren't taken seriously.
What's going to happen with Alito? I think he'll get it. Everybody is tired of the whole thing and just wants to get it over with.
