By Anya Kaats
Photo Matt Lit.
Crestone resident and Town Trustee Adam Kinney will run against incumbent County Commissioner Tom McCracken in the upcoming Saguache County Commissioner Democratic Primary for District 1.
After announcing his candidacy, Kinney secured the required votes necessary to have his name placed on the June Primary ballot. At the March 5 Caucus and Assembly, Kinney secured 30 votes, and McCracken 20. “People deserve a choice,” Kinney explained. “One candidate is underwhelming and leads to complacency and taking the position for granted. Competition causes candidates to work harder to earn your votes and to consider your needs.”
McCracken, who is also a Crestone resident, was elected as District 1 County Commissioner in 2020. McCracken emphasized the value of his four years of experience and the connections he’s been able to make while in office. “I think it’s a real waste of taxpayer money to train a commissioner for four years and not have them continue. It took me three years to really learn the ropes, develop relationships, and work with all the employees,” McCracken explained in an interview with Alamosa News.
For Kinney, running for Saguache County Commissioner represents more than his candidacy alone. “The time is now for our future leaders to recognize that they can have a seat at the table, while they are still passionate and hungry for justice and right livelihood.” Kinney added he believes McCracken has done a good job as commissioner, and he would be honored to follow in his footsteps.
The caucus saw a large turnout, especially from Crestone-Baca Grande residents. “There was an impressive turnout at the caucus for both candidates. I appreciate very much those who took time out of their day to attend. I am looking forward to competing in the primary election,” McCracken said.
“This is how democracy happens, people caring and showing up to participate,” Kinney added. “Now we have two qualified candidates on the primary ballot, which will push us both to work harder for the residents of Saguache County. I am beyond grateful to my community for coming out to support me in this process of civic engagement, and for representing the future leadership of the county.”
Incumbent Democratic Saguache County Commissioner Lynne Thompson is also up for re-election and is running unopposed in 2024 for District 2.
Statements from both Kinney and McCracken can be found in the March print edition of The Crestone Eagle, and online at www.CrestoneEagle.org.
The June Democratic Primary is scheduled for June 25. Registered Democratic voters can vote in the Democratic Primary, and voters registered as Independent can vote in either the Democratic or Republican Primary, but not both. Colorado voters can check their registration status at https://www.sos.state.co.us/.