Experience, integrity, and vision second to none.
Denver native Don Mares' experience, integrity and vision are second to none. His work in the private sector as an accomplished attorney, his tenure at the state legislature, and his current role as Denver's first Hispanic Auditor make Don the most qualified candidate to lead Denver. Don announced his official candidacy for Mayor on December 5, 2002 with over 600 of his supporters. Don's record of public service is underscored by his leadership on the issues of fiscal responsibility, economic development, education, transportation, and health care.
Don was elected Auditor in 1995 and the first Auditor elected to a second term in 24 years. As Denver's Auditor, Don fought to change the way Denver does business. His dedication to serving the interests of Denver's taxpayers has been demonstrated time and time again. During his first 23 days as Auditor, Don created an internet home page for the City to provide valuable information to the people of Denver. He went on to create the Paycheck Payback Program that returns unclaimed wages. Don is proud to have worked on streamlining the processes that have helped businesses thrive and to have promoted the city's technological advances.
In 1988, Don was elected State Representative from Northwest Denver. He became a State Senator in 1991 and served there with distinction. During his tenure at the legislature, Don fought for consumer rights through passing legislation that gave tenants notice when their landlord's mortgage was delinquent and legislation that made nursing homes more accountable for poor or improper care. Don received honors as a legislator from groups such as the American Planning Association, AARP, American Academy of Pediatrics, Colorado Community Health Network, Colorado Senior Lobby, Developmental Disabilities Planning Council, Hispanic League, and the "Good Guy" Award from the National Women's Political Caucus.
Don Mares graduated from Regis High School in Denver. He completed his undergraduate work at Stanford University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1979, with honors. He received his law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School in 1982.
Don and his wife, Ruth Mares, live in the Sloan's Lake neighborhood with their three children, Melissa, D.J., and Emily.
"This election will bring a complete change in Denver's leadership. We will have a new mayor, a new city council president, a new clerk and recorder, a new auditor, and at least four new council members. The citizens of Denver deserve experienced, proven leadership. I am the only candidate that has had public service at every level, local, state, and national."
Read Don's full announcement speech from December 5, 2002
"Leadership with Vision" →© Neighbors for Mares. Paid for by Neighbors for Mares.
