December 06, 2007 08:37 PM UTC

Hasan Changes Name and Seat

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• by: Colorado Pols

It’s hard to say which changes more often – his name or the seat he is running for. The politician formerly known as Muhammad Ali Hasan is now apparently known only as Ali Hasan. Oh, and he’s not running for SD-8 anymore; Hasan confirmed rumors today that he’s running for HD-56 in an effort to win the open seat left vacant when Democrat Dan Gibbs was selected to replace State Sen. Joan Fitz-Gerald.

Full press release follows…

Avon, CO- After much deliberation and extensive consultations with Republican Party officials, Ali Hasan has decided to seek the State House of Representatives seat for District 56.  Official announcements and town hall style meetings with numerous party leaders have been scheduled for Friday, December 7 and Monday, December 10..

Republican Party leaders including House Minority Leader, Mike May, and Leadership Team members David Balmer and Amy Stephens, among others, recruited Hasan to run for the House seat instead of State Senate District 8, where Hasan initially filed his candidacy.  When elected, Hasan would have more of a leadership role and have a brighter future with the party by serving in the House of Representatives. Republican House Leadership has identified the District 56 seat as a high priority goal in the 2008 election, and Hasan is a natural choice to replace the outgoing Representative, Dan Gibbs, because Hasan is energetic, passionate about the Western Slope and is eager to reform and strengthen the party. When asked about this new development Hasan said “I am looking forward to making an announcement and having opportunity to serve the people of district 56.  It is time that those on the Eastern Slope begin to pay attention to those of us who live on the Western Slope.  I am thrilled that I may be able to bring some attention to the things that matter to us.”

Hasan is looking forward to hosting campaign kick-off celebrations in Avon, Breckenridge and Leadville this Friday. Loaded Joe’s in Avon will host a celebration from 7:30 to 9 am, Clint’s Bakery and Deli in Breckenridge will host a celebration from 12 to 1:30 pm, and a party from 4:30 to 6 pm at Proving Grounds in Leadville will be the campaign’s final stop for Friday. Free coffee will be provided to all in attendance at all three locations.

Party officials will be joining Hasan for two town hall style meetings on Monday, December 10 to lend support to Hasan as he lays out details of what he hopes to accomplish in the House after he is elected in November of 2008. Residents of Summit County are encouraged to attend the discussion at The Crown Cafe from 12 to 2 pm on Monday. Eagle County residents can hear from Hasan and party leadership beginning at 5 pm on Monday at Loaded Joes. Attendees to either of Monday’s events can also enjoy free coffee provided by Hasan.