"Libby Szabo's supporters must think she has a good shot at winning her state senate race (Colorado District 19) against Evie Hudak, because they're dumping a ton of money on Hudak.

Hudak had her chance to beat Szabo, and she totally blew it. Her only hope now is that the government employees (particularly the teachers' unions) put her over the top, and that she benefits from strong up-ticket Democratic support.

Political impact of falling gas prices difficult to quantify

A Face the State Staff Report

October 28, 2008

Is the falling cost of crude helping or hurting campaigns?

The counter at the pump has become a staple of this year’s campaign ads, and both parties have spent the last few months tapping into frustration over high gas prices.

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"Parents for School Choice, a group of charter school parents and supporters, released the following today:

Parents for School Choice is pleased to announce the following endorsements: Libby Szabo, Shawn Mitchell, Holly Hansen, Read on for more details."

Early voting projections break record, alter campaign strategy

A Face the State Staff Report

October 8, 2008

With 1.1 million Colorado voters now expected to vote early by mail, campaigns and candidates are struggling to keep up. Jefferson County alone is sending out more than 200,000 ballots this week, signaling the start of a 28-day long election for the state.

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Slideshow: North Metro Senate candidates debate

A Face the State Staff Report

September 16, 2008

An older crowd filled the stadium seats of the Thornton City Council Chambers Monday night to hear candidates for four contested state Senate seats outline how they would each best serve their constituents' needs.

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Outside money laps direct candidate contributions in SD 19

A Face the State Staff Report

September 10, 2008

As Election Day approaches, independent political committees have spent at least 12 times as much as candidates in one of Colorado’s most competitive races.

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Jeffco money watch: Union-backed Hudak faces pro-business Szabo

A Face the State Staff Report

July 9, 2008

In Jefferson County's closely contested Senate District 19, Democrat Evie Hudak has started raking in union cash, while Republican Libby Szabo has seen her large-donor support come mostly from pro-business organizations and the state's energy providers.

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GOP goes on offensive regarding $4 gas

A Face the State Staff Report

June 23, 2008

As gas prices reach an all-time high in Colorado — with the average price hitting $4 a gallon for the first time Thursday — local Republicans are charging that Democrats controlling state government are to blame in part due to their continued alienation of the energy industry.

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Multiple factors aid in Democrat takeover of North Jeffco

A Face the State Staff Report

May 20, 2008

While once Republican strategists could count on north Jefferson County to turn their way on Election Day, the last decade has proven a bloodbath for the party, with Democrats now holding all but a single one of the region’s five state legislative seats.

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