Local businessman Rick Enstrom to challenge Democrat Max Tyler for state house seat | Politics

On Monday, local businessman Rick Enstrom (R-Lakewood) announced his candidacy for Colorado's state House of Representatives, District 23.

"We've seen what happens when there is no check on the radical tax-and-spend agenda pushed by Democratic legislators. People lose their jobs and working families suffer," said Rick Enstrom, candymaker and newly announced candidate for HD 23.  "We must strike a new direction that clears the way for employers to create jobs. We must pursue legislative priorities that fund our schools and foster economic security for families fighting so hard to make ends meet."

Enstrom is an executive with Enstrom Candies and has previously served as a volunteer member of Colorado's Wildlife Commission and Great Outdoors Colorado as well as an EMT and member of the Highland Rescue Team.  He also served one term on the Mesa County Commission from 1978-1982.

"Rick is the right guy to serve in the state legislature," said Shelly Liley, district resident and mother of three children who grew up in Lakewood.  "He's always the first to offer his help and to lend a hand in the neighborhood, whether it's shoveling snow or grilling the burgers at our bbq’s, Rick's there doing the work with us."

Enstrom is challenging Democratic incumbent Max Tyler (D-Lakewood).

"Max Tyler hasn't met a tax increase he didn't like," said Larry Liston, Chairman of the House Economic and Business Development Committee.  "Max Tyler has opposed positive education reform and consistently attacks employers, voting for higher taxes and supporting burdensome, job-killing regulations."

The newly drawn HD 23 includes portions of northern Lakewood, including the Green Mountain area, and portions of unincorporated Jefferson County.  Party affiliation of registered voters is split relatively evenly with Republicans comprising 31.50 percent, Democrats sitting at 35.5 percent and unaffiliated voters at 32.2 percent.

"Rick Enstrom has a remarkable resume of public service and real world business experience that we will put to immediate use in the state House when he’s elected," remarked Speaker of the House Frank McNulty. "As impressive as Rick's resume is, he's the kind of guy who gets it. He knows that far too many Coloradans are out of work and that families need help now."

“We are excited that Rick Enstrom is a candidate for House District 23,” commented Chairman Ryan Call. “Rick's background of private sector experience and community service, make him the exact type of leader Coloradans need get our economy back on track. “

Enstrom lives in Lakewood with his wife Linda.  They have two sons who are married and three grandchildren.  He continues to be an advocate for advancing the management of Colorado’s wildlife and the responsible conservation of our state’s open spaces.