I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend voting for Christian Champagne as Durango’s next district attorney. No words exist that can convey the gratitude and admiration I feel for him.

One of our children was assaulted. The perpetrator admitted to it, but a shoddy investigation weakened the case so much that DA Todd Risberg considered dropping it. Champagne sat with us for over two hours and talked us through our options. He listened as we expressed outrage. He showed that he understood where we were coming from and cared about doing everything possible to ensure justice.

The legal process was painstakingly slow. We got updates from Champagne every few weeks. I came to depend on subtle aspects of Champagne’s personality, like his kind tone, patience and compassion.

Champagne not only prosecutes effectively, he also has the skills and heart to stand side by side with victims as they struggle through the complex emotions of fear, doubt, grief and anger that inevitably come with traumatic assaults. Champagne is one of those rare individuals who can inspire strength, compassion and courage in others during their darkest times. His very presence instills hope.

Christian Champagne is one of our community’s greatest assets and he will be an excellent district attorney.

Emily Thompson

Durango