McInnis McExits – But Why?

Scott McInnis is out. John Suthers wants in. Bob Schaffer was always in. Bentley Rayburn won’t be in if Schaffer is in, but Schaffer hasn’t said he’s in. Yet.

Whew!

While Rep. Mark Udall has the Democratic field for the U.S. Senate in 2008 all to himself, the Republican field has been more unpredictable than an elderly driver making a lane change. McInnis made his exit from the race official today, according to a press release (after the jump):

“My decision is based on doing what is right for Colorado, and ultimately what is right for my family,” McInnis said in a release. “I appreciate the warm reception and encouragement that I received from many Coloradans,” he said.

“I thank them for the privilege of service they afforded and bestowed upon me for many years. I will look forward to continuing to work with the next generation of leaders to uphold the ideals and values that make Colorado great.”

McInnis was the only declared Republican candidate and started his fundraising in January with nearly $1 million in the bank left over from his days as a congressman in CD-3. He was a moderate Republican from the Western Slope with fairly strong name identification, and he had managed to avoid being a big part of the GOP infighting that has taken place in Colorado over the last four years.

So why would he exit the race before he even really got started? You can pick your theory, but here’s a few:

  • McInnis has reportedly wanted to get back into elected office for a few years, but he never seemed to have his heart in it. When he left congress in 2004, McInnis secured a high-paying job in Denver with the law firm of Hogan and Hartson

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