Vote 2002
Madden would crack down on drunks
Libertarian opposes War on Drugs
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by Staff (Editorial@boulderweekly.com)

Alice Madden (R) earned her law degree from the University of Colorado School of Law in 1989, and practiced law before her election as state representative for House District 10. As a lawyer, Madden provided pro bono legal services to victims of domestic violence and pro bono legal counseling to the Denver YWCA's Ask-A-Lawyer program. While some politicians consider lawyering backgrounds a liability ("Lawyer-lobbyist Tom Strickland"), Madden cites her experience as a lawyer as one reason voters should support her.

"My background as a lawyer has helped me be an effective advocate for my constituents." She has served on the Appropriations Committee, the Civil Justice and Judiciary Committee and the Information and Technology Committee.

Rep. Madden's top priority, if re-elected, would be lowering health care premiums while maintaining comprehensive coverage. Madden also believes in expanded mass transit service funding and feels that private toll roads may be one way to fund transportation projects. Madden also supports lowering the blood-alcohol limit for drunk driving from .10 percent to .08 percent, mail ballot elections, and the right of same sex couples to adopt children.

Craig Johnson (L) is a manager of project engineering who received his bachelor's degrees in chemistry and physics, minoring in computer sciences, from California State University. A family man, Johnson is active in both school and scouting programs. He enjoys reading, listening to U2 and the occasional dinner at Red Lobster.

Johnson states that, if elected, his top priority will be to ensure that Colorado's tax dollars are used in the most effective and efficient manner possible. He wants to see that "as many private enterprise-based solutions as possible are exploited to provide better, competitive services." Johnson believes that government exists to serve the interests of the people, not that the people exist to perpetuate the government.

With respect to the issue of managing Colorado's growth, Johnson believes the best approach would be to limit government interference. Johnson also opposes Colorado's current drug laws. He feels that the ongoing "War on Drugs" is an ineffective and costly waste of taxpayers' money, and he would repeal many of the existing drug laws.

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