Marijuana industry pours thousands into a Pueblo County race
For years, political candidates shied away from accepting donations from the marijuana industry but that stigma is fading in Pueblo County.
Marijuana entrepreneurs and activists have donated thousands of dollars to local races. Commissioner Sal Pace has received the bulk of the marijuana money that’s been given to candidates.
KRDO NewsChannel 13 looked at campaign contributions for all 11 candidates running for office in Pueblo County. Of the at least $24,550 that’s been donated by marijuana entrepreneurs and activists, Pace has received $23,150, according to Tracer. That figure accounts for nearly 25 percent of the contributions Pace has received in his bid for re-election.
“These are legally operating businesses. They pay their taxes and they contribute to Pueblo’s economic recovery,” Pace said during a phone interview from Kansas City, Kansas.
The biggest donation came from Bill Conkling, co-owner of Maggie’s Farm, a retail and medical pot shop. Conkling gave Pace two donations totaling $10,200. The second largest donation was made by Robert Lucero, owner of The Spot, a retail and medical store, followed by a $2,000 contribution made by Randy Russell, owner of Pueblo West Organics, a medical marijuana dispensary.
Mike Stetler and his wife, Sondra, own a recreational and medical marijuana store, Marisol Therapeutics, in Pueblo West. They donated $1,500 to Pace’s campaign.
“The biggest reasons why I donate is because I believe in America and I believe in the way the system is ran,” Mike Stetler said.
Stetler said marijuana-related contributions are as legitimate as that of any other regulated industry. He believes that donating to pot-friendly candidates will help him grow his business in Pueblo County.
As a commissioner, Pace has the authority to approve or deny marijuana licenses but doesn’t feel that taking money from those he oversees is a conflict of interest. Pace added that he’s also accepted money from opponents of marijuana legalization.
Pace’s opponent, Tom Ready, said Pace is bought and paid for by the marijuana industry.
County clerk Gilbert Ortiz received $1,100 from marijuana entrepreneurs.
