500+ Pack Campaign Kickoff for Brian Colón for Lt. Governor

Click for larger version of slide show with captions

Brian Colón made a lot of good friends, all over the state, when he Chaired the Democratic Party of New Mexico -- a post he left to seek the Democratic nomination for Lt. Governor. Last night, more than 500 of his supporters, fans and admirers packed the ballroom of Hotel Albuquerque for a celebration and fundraiser to show the kind of support Colón can muster for the 2010 LG race. And it's substantial, in terms of friends, backers, funds and enthusiasm.

The suggested donation range was 100 to 1000 dollars, so we know Colón raked in a tidy sum during an evening of speeches, great food, music and good old Democratic camaraderie. The positive buzz was loud and powerful -- and will no doubt travel far and wide -- putting Colón at the top of the heap of Dems who are officially or unoffically in the race. It was that good.

Donations are one thing, but the vibes were even better. There's a genuine passion for Colón's candidacy among rank and file Dems and heavy hitters alike. Why?

Because he reached out to everyone during his stint as State Chair. Because he strives to always keeps his word. Because he's devoted himself to turning New Mexico true blue, and keeping it that way. Because he works like a dog for the cause. Because he has the courage to advocate without apology for traditional Democratic values. Because he's a problem solver and a fighter. Because he and his family are the real deal -- honest, hardworking, funny, smart, trustworthy, caring human beings. It matters.

Alex Flores; Rafael Colón and Hector Balderas Jr.

The program opened with the Star Spangled Banner and a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance in both Navajo and English by Anesha Yazzie. Albuquerque native Alex Flores, a 23-year-old who's currently working on a Master's degree in Public Affairs at the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University, told the crowd why he views Brian as both a friend and mentor. Alex was a key organizer of the event and explained why he supports Colón's candidacy:

... there are few other people in the world I believe in more. Few other people who can reach out and build consensus like Brian can. Few people who are so relentless in their work. Those of you who have worked with Brian know this much already: he is judicious, he is genuine, and he always, always follows through. He is a problem-solver, a fixer, a connector, a policy-maker. His personal cause is to improve the lives of everyday New Mexicans. To make sure that people are taken care of and what needs to be done truly is - and done well. Nobody does it as sincerely. NOBODY does it as well.

Aleli and Rafael Colón

Next came remarks from Aleli, Brian's wife, and Rafael, his son -- telling the room just how special Brian is. Rafael gave his speech in both Spanish and English, quite an accomplishment for an 11 year old.

Brian Colón focused on Democratic values in his speech (pdf). (You can hear audio of the entire speech at What's the Word with Peter St. Cyr.) He addressed the topics of health care, education, jobs, clean energy, protecting the environment, equal rights for all and support for labor, teachers and a strong middle class:

We’re going to let the voters know that we believe in them and we’re going to let them know that we’re going to change the state.

As Democrats, we believe that every person deserves access to affordable health care ...

As Democrats, we believe that every child should receive high-quality education to prepare them for the future ...

... that all people are entitled to equal rights in the eyes of the law ...

... that hard work should be rewarded with a decent living wage.

And as Democrats, we believe that our leaders must be accountable -- and ethical.

That is why I am a DEMOCRAT. And THAT is why I am running for Lt. Governor.

He told the story of his own humble beginnings growing up in Section 8 housing in Valencia County, benefiting from government food programs and using scholarships and grants to be the first college graduate in his family and finish law school. Colón's father suffered from muscular dystrophy, and his mother cared for him as his condition worsened. He passed away at age 49. Without Medicaid and other support, his life would well have been shorter. Without a boost from the government, the Colons might not have made it as a family -- and he certainly wouldn't be up on a podium discussing his candidacy for Lt. Governor.

It was great to hear Colón make it crystal clear that he supports labor and unions:

As New Mexico moves to become a leader in this ‘new’ economy, let me assure you labor will have a seat at the table.

• It is labor that fights for a fair and decent wage….
• It is labor that fights for a safe work environment….
• It is labor that fights for better health care…
• and it is labor that ensures we have a strong middle class in New Mexico.

All in all, Colón covered all the bases and made it clear he's one serious contender for the much coveted Lt. Governor post. Last night's event was a powerful and energized start to a long haul that will need many volunteers, generous donations and hard work on the part of Brian Colón. He certainly seems up to it -- with a little help from his friends.

Visit Brian Colon's campaign website to sign up for info or to make a donation to support his candidacy.

All photos by M.E. Broderick. Click for event photo album at Flickr.