"The Experience to do it Well and the Integrity to do it Right."
As Mayor, I will be responsible for balancing the city's budget and improving our city's economic outlook. My experience as fiscal watch-dog has prepared me best to face these challenges and my track record of integrity as an elected official will ensure Denver's citizens that I will deliver what I promise.
Denver native Don Mares is a graduate of Stanford University (BA 1979, with honors) and the University of Pennsylvania Law School (1982). First elected as State Representative from Northwest Denver in 1988, Don became a State Senator in 1991, where he served with distinction on behalf of Colorado's working families.
Elected Denver Auditor in 1995, Don became the first Hispanic to hold the office and the first Auditor re-elected in 24 years. As Auditor, Don fought to change the way Denver does business — creating the city's first internet home page, launching the Paycheck Payback Program, and streamlining processes to help businesses thrive.
Read Don's Full Story →Words simply cannot describe the overwhelming support I received from people across Denver during my campaign for mayor. That support was the most humbling and enriching experience of my life. I truly believe that because of the involvement and commitment of so many Denverites that our city is a much better community today.
In the coming days I will be taking some time to enjoy my family and reflect on the things I have learned along the way and think about all of the wonderful friendships I have made. I want you to know that I take away from this experience a renewed commitment to public service and a firm conviction that we are a great community filled with remarkable people.
My children will remember how thousands of Denver citizens came together for a common purpose and how their mom and dad gave all they had. They will remember the laughter and yes, they will remember the tears. But most of all they will remember that their parents cared enough to stand up and give something of themselves. And for me, that is one of the greatest lessons a parent can offer.
When I reflect on this campaign and on my role in public service for the past fifteen years, I am reminded of the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who said:
"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."
I want to thank each and every one of you for your kindness and support. It was truly an honor to be your candidate for mayor. I congratulate Mayor-elect Hickenlooper and wish him well. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Sincerely,
Don Mares
Stay informed about Don's continued public service.
Campaign information available in Spanish.
Register to Vote: Colorado Secretary of State
Read Don Mares' full announcement speech from December 5, 2002
"Leadership with Vision" →© Neighbors for Mares. Paid for by Neighbors for Mares.
