The Colorado governor’s office moved one step closer to the White House Thursday, at least in physical proximity, by opening an office in the nation’s capital.
Gov. John Hickenlooper, who is persistently rumored to have aspirations to higher office despite his equally consistent denials, said in a press release that the new office will not be used to advance the political agenda of any one person or group, but will be used to promote state interests as a whole.
“This move will give state government a stronger voice in Washington and play a critical role in advancing the state’s economy,” Hickenlooper said in a press release. “We look forward to working closely with Colorado’s congressional delegation and our new Washington representative to improve our state’s capacity to pursue economic opportunities, access federal grants and navigate other priorities.”
That representative is attorney Jena Griswold, who previously worked for Colorado Democratic Rep. Dianna DeGette and for the human rights organization Venezuelan Victims of Human Rights Violations.
Her responsibilities include keeping an eye on federal legislation that would have an impact on Colorado, working with its congressional delegation and promoting the state’s legislative priorities. She will also research and apply for federal grants for which Colorado is qualified.
Colorado hasn’t had an office in Washington, D.C. since 2007.
The Denver Post reports that the office will have a budget of about $120,000, which includes Griswold’s $78,000 salary.
Hickenlooper told the paper that it was “time to get more aggressive in how the state relates with Washington.”
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