Editor,

As a lifelong resident of the Roaring Fork Valley and as Carbondale Town Trustee, I am enthusiastically voting for Cole Buerger for Colorado State Senator for District 5. I have known Cole for years and he has proven himself to be thoughtful, principled, policy-minded, and smart. Cole is a fifth generation Coloradan and a small business owner. He understands what it takes to go to Denver and fight for what rural families and businesses need on the Western Slope.
Cole grew up on a ranch near Silt and his family has lived and ranched in this region for generations. As a local kid who also grew up on a ranch up the Frying Pan, I believe that Cole is the only candidate that truly understands the challenges our communities face. He is ready to address the increasing cost of living, protect our water and forest health, and support our small businesses, our ag producers, and increase funding for infrastructure and schools.
Cole has the support of community leaders across the district – Republican, Democrat, and unaffiliated alike. Cole will work with people from all parties and all walks of life to ensure that District 5 thrives. I hope you will join me and vote for Cole Buerger for State Senate.
_{Jess Robison}