Candidate Profile: Lindsay Daugherty, District 29

The 2020 election is heating up in Colorado and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office. Eyes are primarily focused on the presidential election, but voters will also decide the outcome of state representative and senate seats.

Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Lindsey Daugherty is running for Colorado House of Representatives District 29.

Age: 33
Party affiliation: Democratic Party
Family: N/A
Occupation: Attorney - 8 years
Previous elected experience: Representative Tracy Kraft-Tharp
Family members in government: No

The single most pressing issue facing our state is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

COVID – My priority is making sure that CO working families and CO businesses are being looked after. Not all businesses need the same help – some are thriving under these circumstances and some are struggling. I opened my own business in 2012 and my fiancé is an ER physician so I understand the balance between supporting the economy and making decisions for the best public health practices.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I have experience working in government. I worked under a US Representative, a US Senator, and the Obama Administration. As an attorney, I’ve done family mediation and always find a way to get the two parties to find a solution that they are both happy with. I know I can take these skills to the Capitol in order to represent the people in my district.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

As I previously mentioned, I have done family mediation and none of my cases have ever had to go to court. I want to work together as one to get bipartisan legislation passed that will help the people.

What steps should state government take to bolster economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic for local businesses?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a clear answer to this question. I’ve spoken to a few business owners and they have very different needs. Some are struggling and some don’t need government help to stay open. I’ll make sure to continue these conversations with business owners to see what help they need and make sure they keep their doors open.

How will you address the calls for racial justice and police reform?

I have met with police officers and spoken with the police union. I think it’s very important to communicate with both sides so we can have all of the information possibly before making a decision. Racism still exists in this country and it’s apparent that there needs to be change. From the conversations I’ve had with the police, they seem to support some of the changes that come with SB-217. I hope to create a place where BIPOC people feel safe and supported.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

I’m passionate about reforming the criminal justice system as I have seen how it affected my brother. He is a recovering alcoholic with a felony DUI that he got years ago. The system focuses too much on punishment instead of rehabilitation and that’s why our recidivism rate is so high. My brother had the financial and emotional support that a lot of people don’t, and that is something I want to change.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I would like voters to know that I am always open to a conversation and I invite anyone who has any questions or concerns to contact me. My job will be to represent my constituents and I will always have an open door policy.