July 19, 2009 05:11 PM UTC

Sen. Spence: McInnis' "Time Has Gone Past"

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• by: Colorado Pols

A bit awkwardly worded from state Sen. Nancy Spence, but her point is unmistakable–from this week’s Colorado Statesman:

During the 2009 legislative session, Penry often likened the political tactics of Colorado’s Democrats to those of disgraced former Texas Republican Congressman Tom DeLay, who was forced out of office after corruption charges surfaced…

Penry’s youth and his rejection of the negative aspects of the Republican Party clearly are political assets – but they won’t be enough to make winning easy.

On the other hand, McInnis, who began his two decades in elected office in the Colorado Legislature before representing the 3rd Congressional District in Washington, is considered a member of state’s old Republican guard.

His political connections and donor list are vast, his name I.D. is high, and he has an extensive voting record that includes fighting for enhanced environmental protection – an issue important to state voters.

Nevertheless, many political insiders are calling this run for office his “last chance” to regain an elected position in Colorado, and others say his political life is over.

“His time has gone past,” Spence said. “It’s time for a fresh face. Josh is the next generation of young political leaders.”

McInnis’ efforts won’t be helped by his reputation for unpredictability, Spence added.