The San Miguel Basin Forum reached out to both candidates running for U.S. Congress, Colorado District 3, for with just four questions that were based on survey results specific to the West End. Last week, the Forum ran Adam Frisch’s responses to those questions. This week, in Part 2, readers hear from Jeff Hurd.
Mackenzie Younker, Director for Public Policy for the Jeff Hurd campaign, shared the responses, and those are as follows:
Forum: What does democracy and good government mean to you?
Hurd: Democracy is about empowering the voices of the people and ensuring that government operates transparently and remains accountable. Good government serves the people by being efficient, fair and responsive to their needs. It’s essential that communities, especially those in rural areas like the West End, have a say in how their resources are managed.
My goal is to bring that kind of leadership to Washington, D.C. — one that listens to and acts on the concerns of rural communities. I firmly believe that local control and community-driven solutions are the most effective, because those closest to the issues understand them best. The concerns of the West End matter, and I am committed to making sure areas like this are not overlooked.
Forum: Those in the West End of Montrose County are also worried about the economy and cost of living. What would you say to those in the West End with these concerns?
Hurd: I understand the challenges the West End is facing when it comes to the economy and cost of living. Rising prices for housing, energy and everyday goods are squeezing families.
My focus is on creating jobs, reducing energy costs and making it easier for businesses to thrive. Supporting our energy industry, which provides high-paying jobs, and fighting inflation through responsible fiscal policies are key ways to help.
I also want to support affordable housing initiatives and policies that bolster small businesses in the West End, so that families can not only make ends meet, but also build a prosperous future.
Forum: My readership has commented on the drama and the noise in politics. Do you also see this/feel this? Or have a plan to work on this?
Hurd: I see the noise and polarization in politics, and it’s a problem that gets in the way of solving real issues. My focus is on practical, results-driven policies that directly benefit the people of Colorado’s 3rd District.
Instead of engaging in drama, I want to bring people together — whether it’s working on water issues, energy independence or job creation. My approach is to listen to constituents and keep the focus on what matters most to them, not the noise of Washington.
Forum: How will you connect with constituents on the Western Slope, or even a small place like the West End — Nucla, Naturita, Norwood, and the outlying regions?
Hurd: I believe in the importance of being accessible to every community in Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District, no matter how small or remote. I plan to spend time in areas like the West End, holding town halls, meeting with community leaders and ensuring that constituents feel heard.
I will also stay connected with those who may not be able to meet in person through virtual town halls and consistent communication on social media. My goal is to be a representative who is approachable, listens to concerns directly from the people and takes action on those concerns in Washington.
