Republican State Sen. Ellen Roberts of Durango announced Sunday she will resign from that seat on Dec. 31 to spend more time with family and build her law practice, creating a ripple in GOP politics as well as the party’s one-seat majority in the upper chamber.
She will be replaced by a Republican vacancy committee and candidates are already lining up including state Rep. Don Coram of Montrose. The party will also need to fill the leadership position she is vacating as well, that of Senate president pro tem.
“I’ve been contemplating this change for over a year and have talked it over with my family, friends and colleagues during that time, so it’s not a result of the rather tumultuous election year we find ourselves in,” Roberts said.
“The time has come for me to move on after 10 years of what has been for me a very positive and productive experience as your public servant.”
So long, Ellen. Thanks for your service, and best of luck.