Maybe 7th Congressional District GOP nominee Ryan Frazier is just a busy guy. Currently serving on the Aurora City Council, Frazier has been absent or late for half the meetings held in the past two years.
The Colorado Independent called every current member of the council to see what they thought. Of those reached, none thought Frazier’s attendance — or lack thereof — was a problem, and all supported his bid for Congress after he handily won last week’s primary. All but one said they were Republicans as well.
“I guess he has missed some meetings,” said Councilman Bob Broom. “I’m not sure it’s a problem, though. I think he will be a good congressman. He’s obviously very smart. He’s a quick study on issues.”
Broom said Frazier “is a friend of mine,” but noted he doesn’t like to get involved in other people’s campaigns.
Councilwoman Marsha Berzins, who would not divulge her party affiliation, said Frazier usually has a good reason when he misses a meeting and often calls in to be on speakerphone so that he can be part of the discussion. “If I thought he was out goofing off, that would be different,” she said.
She thinks Frazier would be a good congressman. “He cares about the community and he works hard. I know him, and I know his work ethic. I don’t know the other person [incumbent CD7 Democrat Ed Perlmutter],” she said.
“I’m not going to say anything about his attendance,” said Councilwoman Sue Sandstrom. “I think he will be a great congressman. He’s a good solid conservative. He cares a lot about people. I’ve been very impressed with Ryan.”
“His attendance has not been a big problem,” said Councilman Brad Pierce. “He probably missed a few more than some people, but so what?”
Pierce said Frazier would bring a conservative viewpoint to Congress and would do a good job of representing the people of the 7th District.
“He really tries to look out for small businesses and would try to cut red tape and make the government less cumbersome for businesses. He would bring a small business perspective to Congress that is needed today,” he said.
Councilwoman Molly Markert, who declined to say which political party she favored, said she wouldn’t comment for this story “because I have to continue to work with Ryan.”
According to Frazier’s campaign website, he is a “business partner in a small information technology business, Takara Systems.” When the Colorado Independent called the phone number listed at the company’s website, it was disconnected.
Frazier did not return calls and emails left at his council office, his home and his campaign. “What you point out is true, I’ve missed some meetings,” Frazier told the Denver Post when the paper first revealed his council attendance record in May. “I’ve had to work to provide for my family.”
Perlmutter campaign communications director Leslie Oliver said, “Frazier’s attendance record speaks for itself. He has missed some critical votes. Former 7th CD [Republican] Congressman Bob Beauprez said it best, Frazier ‘ought to be fired, not promoted.’”
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