Another gold for Coffman

As my guy, the young phenom Wil Armstrong, lost soundly in Tuesday's GOP primary for the 6th congressional district, he and his disappointed supporters had the consolation of knowing they were beaten not by just any "career politician" -- an allowable but less than ideal bit of campaign shorthand -- but by this decade's Mr. Republican in Colorado, Mike Coffman. Coffman has won three times statewide, twice for Treasurer and once for Secretary of State, before prevailing this week over Armstrong's big money and VIP endorsements to step into retiring Congressman Tom Tancredo's shoes. Democrat Hank Eng will battle Mike in the fall campaign, but this is a very safe Republican district.

Despite occasional disagreements with Coffman, I admire his tough conservatism and superb military record. He will be a fine congressman for the south suburbs, and as far as election medal count from the 1980s to the present is concerned, it's fair to call him the Michael Phelps of GOP competitors in our state.

Congratulations on your latest gold, Major Coffman.

Endorsements for Aug. 12 Primary

Coloradans of both parties will choose their candidates in Tuesday's primary election. Backbone America recommends the following on the Republican side. Wil Armstrong Congress, 6th District Best equipped to shake the place up, a political outsider like Pence and Flake, Coburn and Demint.

Carol Chambers District Attorney, 18th District Disliked as too tough by criminal defense bar and the media; what else do you need to know?

Lauri Clapp State Senate, 26th District Reliably conservative. My frequent ally when she was in the House and I in the Senate, 1999-2005.

Doug Lamborn (Incumbent) Congress, 5th District Solid freshman term since winning the seat in 2006. GOP won't regain the offensive by eating our own.

Douglas Bruce (Incumbent) State House, 15th District Makes up in principle and guts what he lacks in charm. Again, purges are no way to party-build.

Joshua Sharf State House, 6th District Impressive resume, understands liberty, loves America; his opponent talks like an Islamist mole.

Mark Scheffel State Senate, 4th District Seasoned and trustworthy, from the first family of Douglas County Republicans.

If you have a vote in any of these races, or know someone who does, please join me in supporting these good Republicans. I respect your choice if it differs from mine. But by all means, participate!