It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Commissioner Lew Gaiter. Lew and I were the first gubernatorial candidates last year in Aspen to debate each other. No one on either side (Democrat or Republican) would show up to the debate except for Lew and myself. A little known fact is that we made history as well. We were the first Coloradans of color, as candidates, to debate each other for the Governor's seat. I got to know Lew and his wife Jeannette on the campaign trail and what I learned about him, is that he was a great guy who truly cared about what he believed. He was authentic and genuine. Lew was a Republican and I am a Democrat and we got along well. What is missing in this current political and toxic environment, is the ability to sit down and have a disagreements without shouting and losing civility. Lew was classy and I will miss him. Republicans need many more principled people like Lew Gaiter on their side, so we can change the tone in this country. Jeannette, Steffany, Jon, Micah, Elijah, Josiah, Shama, Samuel, Lewis IV and Daniel; I am sorry for your loss. I was proud to spend time with Lew. This is truly a great loss for Colorado. He was a great man who loved his family and cared deeply about our State. From my heavy heart, I send the Gaiter family my thoughts and prayers. - Erik M. Underwood #lewgaiter #larimercounty #colorado #governorsrace #2017 #underwood #bipartisan #democrat #republican #jesseventura #rt #aspen #debate #politics #copol #tv #shows (at Aspen Institute) https://www.instagram.com/p/BoCjk1Sl3Qw/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=b0pvd2kky6s1
