O'Brien wrote a letter to the state Democratic Party Convention nominating Brenner as the official party candidate for State Senate District 8, which includes Eagle, Garfield, Routt, Jackson, Rio Blanco and Moffat counties. O'Brien was unable to attend the convention herself, so the letter was read to party delegates by Eagle County Commissioner Peter Runyon.
O'Brien, also agreed this weekend to join Brenner's campaign as Honorary Chairwoman, adding extensive experience in fundraising and campaigning to the Steamboat Springs' Democrat's campaign.
"Ken," the letter of nomination read, "because you are a man of integrity, because you are someone who has demonstrated your commitment to the citizens of this state as a public servant and because you are an individual who will stand up for what is right for people of you district, I am proud to nominate you."
O'Brien, who made her mark in statewide politics working for students and schools, noted that she, Brener and Gov. Bill Ritter, share a common commitment to Western rural values based in the fact that they all grew up on farms and ranches in rural Colorado.
"You have three generations of family roots behind you in the Yampa Valley," O'Brien wrote. "I cannot imagine a better person to serve the citizens of Senate District 8 at the Capital."
As Honorary Chair of Brenner's campaign, O'Brien will be available to advise Brenner on the ins and outs of campaigning on a regional level and to help with fundraising. She will not be involved in the day-to-day operations and decision-making.
Eagle County Commissioner Peter Runyon, Garfield County Commissioner Tresi Houpt and Steve Ivancie of Steamboat Springs City Council also spoke before Ken gave his speech.
