Colorado Citizens for Ethics in Government called on the Denver County District Attorney to investigate Secretary of State Gigi Dennis for violating the public trust, and has petitioned Sec. Dennis to repeal an emergency rule that allows votes to be transferred from one candidate to another.

In recent months, Sec. Dennis has repeatedly breached her duties to the public. Sec. Dennis has refused to investigate Rep. Bob Beauprez’s questionable campaign contributions despite her authority to enforce campaign finance laws, and has promulgated so-called “emergency rules” without a bona fide emergency in contravention of state law.

According to Colorado law, as a public officer Secretary Dennis is required to carry out her duties for the benefit of the people of Colorado. A public officer whose conduct departs from these requirements is liable to the people of the state.

On September 7, 2006, Sec. Dennis adopted a new rule (rule 46) that would allow votes cast for a drop-out candidate to be given to a replacement candidate.

According to CCEG’s analysis, the new rule violates state law, usurps legislative authority, and infringes on Coloradoans’ constitutional rights. CCEG has petitioned Sec. Dennis to repeal the rule and has filed a Colorado Open Records Act request for documents related to the drafting, consideration and promulgation of the rule.