Republican candidate for governor Lopez campaigns in Valley

MONTE VISTA — State gubernatorial candidate Greg Lopez (R) made a campaign stop in Monte Vista on Jan. 22. Lopez was at Rain Brews from 8 to 11 a.m., meeting with people and talking about what makes him the best choice of a crowded field of Republicans.

Lopez is one of 10 candidates running in the Republican primary for governor. Colorado's primary election is June 28. The General Election is Nov. 8.

Gov. Jared Polis (D) has not formally announced if he will seek a second term, but many expect him to run again.

Lopez is not a stranger to politics and is excited to be running for governor. Lopez is the former mayor and City Manager of Parker. He was also president of the Denver Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

“Some people get into stereotyping that all Democrats are poor, and all Republicans are rich, this is not the case, it is not about how much money you have, it is about your political views and what you believe in,” Lopez said.

He said he came from humble beginnings. His parents were migrant workers who always wanted more for their children.

Lopez said his parents taught him to have strong faith in God, to always be honest, to help people, and to be a hard worker.

Lopez said his parents’ beliefs resided within him.

Lopez talked about growing up and wanting a higher education, but to make that happen he chose to go into the military as his parents could not afford to send him to college.

Lopez spent four years in the Air Force. Lopez was a weapon specialist. He lost 87 percent of the hearing in his right ear due to the jet engines. Lopez said the military was worth it though, as this was where he met his soulmate, his wife of 30 years.

Lopez is proud to be a veteran running for governor. He said being in the military taught him the importance of being part of a team and working together. He feels this quality is good to have as a candidate.

Lopez also spoke about being elected mayor of Parker at the age of 27 and being the city manager at the same time. He said he obtained strong leadership skills doing both.

Lopez was the mayor and city manager for four years and stepped down when his wife requested that he be with his family more.

Lopez said he would represent and reach out to rural and urban Colorado communities equally. Lopez explained that he is a living example of how America offers opportunities to everyone, regardless of ethnicity or zip code.

Lopez answered questions and talked about his strong belief in family and equality.

Lopez is one of the Republican candidates currently running for Governor in Colorado.

For more information on Lopez, visit www.lopez2022.com.