Betsy Markey

Location: Fort Collins, CO
My Story: I am a 2008 Democratic candidate for U.S. Congress in Colorado's 4th Congressional District. I grew-up the sixth of seven children in a close-knit Catholic family. My father dropped out of high school to support his mother and sisters, so he made sure that his children received a good education. We all worked our way through college. I was a waitress, cashier, secretary, babysitter and telemarketer. My mother insisted that young women needed to go the extra mile, and my three sisters and I now hold advanced degrees. For 3 years I chaired the Larimer County Democratic Party and founded the Larimer County Democratic Business Coalition. I have grown two successful businesses. I understand first-hand the challenges of meeting a payroll and providing healthcare for employees. I know the value to the community of creating good jobs for hardworking people. I have volunteered with non-profit agencies because I appreciate the important work that is accomplished when businesses and non-profits partner to solve problems. As a public servant with experience in both the legislative and executive branches, I learned that government is most effective when it plays a supporting role and promotes success for everyone who is willing to work hard. I see the challenges that lay ahead with preserving our environment and utilizing alternative energy solutions. Most recently, I have had the opportunity to understand first-hand the issues and challenges that face the citizens of the 4th Congressional District as the Regional Director for U.S. Senator Ken Salazar. I believe that the best is yet to come for northern and eastern Colorado. My campaign is about everyday people. It is about a positive future for Coloradans and the issues that must be addressed to get there. Learn more about myself and the issues by visiting http://www.markeyforcongress.com
Birth Date: April 27th
Issues: Civil Liberties; Civil Rights; Economic Growth; Education; Election Reform; Energy Policy; Environment; Good Government; Healthcare; Military Issues; National Security; Retirement Security
Registered to Vote: Yes
Party Affiliation: Democrat
Political Identification: Progressive

America was not built on fear. America was built on courage, on imagination, and unbeatable determination to do the job at hand. -Harry Truman