In 2013, After the Aurora shooting, the Colorado legislature passed several gun safety laws. Pro-gun activists targeted four state Senators. Signatures were collected to recall two who were recalled and replaced by Republicans.
In 2018, Nevada Republicans targeted three state Senators for recall – one independent and two Democrats. No bad behaviors. No specific votes, even. Just control of the legislature. The Republican effort failed. Not get enough signatures.
In 2019, Colorado Republicans are at it again. The new, gay governor of Colorado irritates them. So do Democratic majorities in the House and Senate. Here is what Republicans fear.
- A“red flag” gun control bill. A gun owner found to be a danger to him or herself or others can have guns removed and returned only after demonstrating he or she is no longer a danger.
- Oil and gas reform proposals. Required training for field. Community control over oil or gas drilling.
- Instructing members of the Electoral College in Colorado to vote for the presidential candidate who gets the most votes nationally.
- 19 to16 Democratic control of the state Senate. Two recalls that elected Republicans would give them back control.
- Recall State Senator Rachel Galindo. She might support new controls over oil and gas drilling. Can they collect 5,696 signatures in 60 days?
- More targets: Senate President Larry Garcia. Senator Jeff Bridges, Representatives Bri Buentello and Meg Froelich.
- A target that is merely revenge. Republican Sheriff Tony Spurlock. He supported a gun safety proposals in 2017 when he was a state legislator.
- The Governor is a target. Could they collect 631,000 signatures in sixty days? Can they wait? No recall is possible until he is in office for six months.
- Would you call them sore losers?