More on the faltering Colorado Promise...

I touched on this issue a bit when discussing the massive budget shortfall that Colorado is facing but it looks like now would be a good time to give this some more attention.

David Thielen pointed to a a John Andrews column in today's Post that is critical of the governor. It's an interesting column- Andrews opens thusly,

Weak, indecisive, ineffective, directionless, no clout, poorly staffed -- those are some of the descriptions of Bill Ritter that this former Senate President has heard recently from legislators in both parties and on both sides of the aisle as Colorado's freshman governor nears the end of his second legislative session.

"Afraid to lead," "out of his depth," and "doesn't get it" are several more unflattering appraisals directed at the Democratic chief executive and his first floor (staff and cabinet) operation by second-floor State Capitol players in the legislative branch.

Thielen refers to Andrews as an "idiot". I think he's more of a demagogue but I understand David's sentiment. As usual Andrews tone is over-the-top and his focus on the governor's fair treatment of labor unions is misguided. As I replied to David over at Pols though, Andrews does have a bit of a point. As I noted at Pols,

We're almost done with the 2nd session of his first term and very little of substance has been accomplished on the big issues facing the state. They have already thrown in the towel on health care, which was a major focal point of their campaign. There's been little done in transportation and education of note.

There have been successes in terms of the environment and he's to be applauded for that.

I can't be the only Democrat disappointed in the lack of progress on the big issues facing the state though, can I?

The 2nd session is almost over, which would realistically leave just next session for moving big ideas as the 4th year is an election year. Now with the state facing a $700 million budget shortfall it looks as though the opportunity to accomplish anything major from the Colorado Promise has probably passed. Not to mention that Ref C has just about run out.

When you're elected with almost 70% of the vote and your party makes substantial gains in the House and Senate you are being presented a rare historical opportunity. I think that opportunity has slipped through his hands.

The Governor has provided a steady hand to state government and has proven himself exceedingly competent. I support him and believe Colorado is better off with him on the 1st floor than we were under Owens or would have been under Beauprez. That said, I'd like to see decisive and occasionally bold leadership instead of merely competent stewardship.