The Capitol was filled with the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations this week, with House Speaker Julie McCluskie passing on the green jacket tradition to a new recipient. McCluskie comically listed bribes she would accept for the jacket, emphasizing its sacred and bipartisan nature. The jacket holds a long history dating back to 1974 and is passed on to a new member annually. The Speaker’s announcement of the next wearer is eagerly awaited.
On the Senate side, a special guest, Irish Senate President Mark Daley, accompanied former Senate President Pro Tem Kerry Donovan to celebrate the holiday. Senator Daley, a charming figure from County Kerry, shared insights about Irish politics and his unique path to the Senate presidency.
Lawmakers from both chambers sported green attire to mark the occasion, with notable mentions for Reps. Stephen Woodrow, Ryan Gonzales, and House Reading Clerk George Schiebel. Senator Kyle Mullica stood out in a dazzling thrift store green jacket, earning recognition as the “largest leprechaun” by Sen. Byron Pelton.
Balancing the festive spirit, the House adopted a resolution honoring Future Farmers of America Day despite a voting mishap by Rep. Lisa Feret. Additionally, legislative proceedings on Monday included playful poetry readings by House members and visits from the Butterfly Pavilion creatures. Co-whips Reps. Matthew Martinez and Elizabeth Velasco added a touch of humor with their dairy and leather whips, and Humane Colorado brought puppies to provide comfort to visitors at the Capitol. Overall, the week showcased a lighter and jovial side of Colorado’s legislative process.
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Photo credit denvergazette.com
