By Lindy J. Gwinn, Mountain Valley News staff
Duncan McArthur of Grand Junction has halted his campaign and withdrawn his bid for the Colorado House District 54 seat being vacated by Steve King in November.
“Most everyone involved in the real estate and development business has suffered from the economy these past few years and I am no exception. Serving in the legislature is a sacrifice and I find that I will not be able to carry the financial burden that serving in the legislature brings. Instead, I will work to assist conservative candidates with their campaigns while seeking means to improve my financial circumstances,” McArthur said.
Apparently, McArthur is not the only person that has the heart to serve, but faces the reality of financial challenges as a candidate.
In an email, David Balmer, Assistant House Minority Leader said, “The challenges of serving and constantly campaigning in a swing district have caused me to lose significant business in my real job. I have been dipping into our savings each year for 6 years.”
McArthur has been serving as the Governmental Affairs Director for the Grand Junction Area Home Builders Association and as Laura Bradfords' treasurer. He is also the First Vice Chair of the Mesa County Republicans.
McArthur said that he is going to continue his position as Governmental Affairs Director. “ That will definitely keep me involved in the issues. The market in Mesa County seems to be stabilizing, but foreclosures continue to be a problem. Another concern is the possible increase in the number of subdivisions and commercial properties being foreclosed on by the banks. The holiday sales season was better than many expected, which may help the retail businesses stay in operation, which helps stabilize the commercial vacancy rate. The first quarter may be a good indicator of how 2010 will go,” said McArthur.
“I have been serving as Laura Bradford's treasurer since Nov. 2008 and plan to continue in that capacity for her current campaign. My role in her campaign was obviously limited since I was also running but now I will put more effort into her race for House District 55,” said McArthur.
The race for house District 54 is still being pursued by three other candidates. Bob Hilsop, Ray Scott, and newly announced David Cox are all still seeking the seat.
When asked who he would support of the remaining candidates for the District 54 race McArthur said, “ I plan to wait. I want to see their campaigns progress and probably will not choose a candidate to support until after the District Assembly. There is also the possibility that other candidates may enter the race now.”
