RedColorado.us

Washington- The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) announced today that Colorado Republican Cory Gardner (CO-04) has reached ‘Contender’ status as part of its Young Guns recruitment program. ‘Contender’ status is the second step in the three-level program, with Gardner now facing a new set of benchmarks to reach ‘Young Gun’ status.

Founded in the 2007-2008 election cycle by Reps. Eric Cantor (R-VA), Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and Paul Ryan (R-WI), the Young Guns program is a member-driven organization dedicated to electing open seat and challenger candidates nationwide. By achieving ‘Contender’ status, Gardner has already proven his ability to build a successful campaign structure and achieve important fundraising goals.

As a state legislator representing Colorado’s 63^rd Assembly District, Cory Gardner has made economic development, healthcare and education his top priorities. As a leading voice in the state House, Gardner has been a constant advocate for limited government and common-sense principles. He has received numerous awards recognizing his service in the State House, including the 2009 Guardian of the Taxpayer award from the Colorado Union of Taxpayers.

“Cory Gardner has already proven that he will be a formidable candidate by meeting the rigorous goals laid out by the Young Guns program and putting in place the pieces for a winning campaign,” said NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions. “Cory is part of a strong and growing candidate pool that is further proof that Republicans are ready to play offense over the course of this election cycle. His campaign is one of many putting Democrats on notice that their reckless big-government policies will not go unchallenged at the polls. Cory Gardner has proven once again that he is ready to hold this Democrat majority accountable for their runaway spending sprees and put our country back on the right track.”

While already completing certain steps to place him on the road to victory, Gardner now faces a new set of rigorous benchmarks that will help him advance to the top level of the Young Guns program and help him build a competitive, effective and winning campaign.