July 31 - Senior Citizens Among Ritter's Top Priorities

Gubernatorial candidate Bill Ritter today declared that giving Colorado’s 400,000 senior citizens a voice in state government and improving their quality of life will be among his top priorities. Ritter launched a new Senior Citizens web page and released a new Senior Citizens policy paper. The paper outlines Ritter’s plans to address elder abuse and fraud, health care costs, prescription drug costs, maintaining independence, and including seniors in important policy decisions. As Denver’s District Attorney from 1993 to 2005, Ritter established the Communities Against Senior Exploitation Partnership, which now serves as a national and statewide model.

Acknowledging the special needs of some of Colorado’s older residents, the materials released today were published in a type face 45 percent larger than all other campaign literature. “Colorado’s older adults are an integral part of our communities and our economy,” said Ritter, who turns 50 on Sept. 6. “We need their ongoing participation and skills, and they deserve our ongoing respect and consideration."

“My mother, Ethel, is 81 years old. She worked hard her entire life. She has 11 living children, 32 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Like many seniors, she has dedicated her life to ensuring the well-being of her family. It is time to return the favor,” Ritter added. “As Governor, I will work with senior citizens to ensure they have a seat at the table and their voices are heard when it comes to making decisions about their lives and well-being. Together we can and will improve the quality of life for older Coloradans. It’s our responsibility and our moral obligation.”

Today’s announcement continues Ritter’s grass-roots outreach efforts to important constituency groups across the state. In addition to the new Senior Citizens web page, Ritter has launched similar Sportsmen, Veterans, and Law Enforcement web pages.