UPDATE: Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty is making headlines this week as he campaigns for Colorado’s Attorney General position. His visit to Durango on Wednesday was part of his summer “Know Your Rights” tour, aimed at addressing critical issues such as hate crimes, gun laws, and immigration.
Dougherty, who gained notoriety for his role in the 2021 Mark Redwine murder case, held his event at the Durango Public Library, drawing significant attention from local residents eager to hear his vision for the state. With a law degree from Boston University School of Law and over a decade of experience at the Manhattan DA’s Office, Dougherty emphasized his commitment to public safety and consumer protection during his campaign.
If elected, Dougherty’s top three priorities will include challenging unlawful federal actions affecting Coloradans, enhancing public safety, and safeguarding environmental protections. He expressed his outrage over potential federal plans to sell off public lands in Colorado, stating, “To me, it’s outrageous that the federal government would consider selling off our public lands, including lands here in Colorado.”
Dougherty also highlighted his intent to address the Colorado River Compact’s Interim Guidelines, which will expire in 2026. He asserted the need for solutions that prioritize the best interests of Coloradans. “Now, more than ever, we need the state to step up and do more to hold water polluters accountable,” he added, stressing the importance of keeping water resources accessible for farmers and ranchers.
His campaign focuses on building trust between Coloradans and the state government. Dougherty stated, “People on the Front Range don’t understand or appreciate that people outside the metro area feel slighted,” emphasizing the necessity for local voices in legislative decisions.
Dougherty’s commitment to bipartisan support is also a cornerstone of his campaign. “You don’t usually hear candidates talking about bipartisan support in this day and age, but we need to do exactly that,” he said, underlining the importance of restoring trust in state governance.
At the “Know Your Rights” event, Dougherty encouraged attendees to hold him accountable, stating, “You should always judge me on my actions.” His vision is to serve as “the people’s lawyer,” ensuring that local communities are engaged in the decision-making process.
As the campaign progresses, Dougherty’s focus on rural community voices and environmental issues resonates strongly with voters. His proactive approach and dedication to public service are set to make significant waves in Colorado’s political landscape.
Stay tuned for more updates as Dougherty continues his campaign across Colorado, addressing vital issues that affect all residents.
