Q&A with Cary Kennedy, Democratic candidate for governor

City or town of residence: Denver, more than 40 years

Profession: Former state treasurer, former chief financial officer and deputy mayor of Denver, mom

Related elected-office or public-service experience: I served as state treasurer from 2007-11. I served as the chief financial officer and deputy mayor of Denver from 2011-16. 

Why are you seeking this office?

We are all proud of Colorado and what our state has become, but our progress is not reaching everyone in our state. I am running for governor to build on our progress, to make sure it reaches everyone and to keep Colorado the place we love.

What makes you the most qualified person for the position?

I have helped lead Colorado as state treasurer and Denver's deputy mayor and CFO. I managed taxpayers' money throughout the Great Recession. We kept Colorado on strong financial footing, and I protected state investments from losses. I've led the successful efforts to protect funding for public education and as governor will lead a bipartisan coalition to permanently reform our TABOR (Taxpayer's Bill of Rights) amendment so we can invest in education and infrastructure and continue to support communities across our state.  

What would your top two priorities be if elected?

Making education Colorado's top priority and protecting the Colorado we love in the face of growth. I want all of our kids, regardless of where they grow up or how much their family makes, to be able to compete for great jobs our state is creating. That is why education will be my No. 1 priority as governor. We also need to do a better job addressing growth. We haven't adequately prepared for the growth we have today. We must make forward-looking investments in transportation, housing, water conservation, renewable energy and broadband so we can keep Colorado the place we love.

What else should the voters know about you?

I grew up with three foster brothers and sisters. Before joining our family, my siblings didn't have the same opportunities I had. I understand that for many kids, the only opportunities they get are through their public school, which is why I will make education Colorado's No. 1 priority.