Fallout from McCain's river compact comments

U.S. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) probably wishes he could throw some water on the fire he ignited after his comments late last week to the Pueblo Chieftan that "the [Colorado River] compact that is in effect, obviously, needs to be renegotiated over time amongst the interested parties."

Here's a round-up of some of the reaction.

U.S. senate candidate and former U.S. Rep. Bob Schaffer (R-Fort Collins): "Over my cold, dead, political carcass."

U.S. Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Denver): "Senator McCain's position on opening up the Colorado River Compact is absolutely wrong and would only happen over my dead body."

U.S. Rep. Mark Udall (D-Eldorado Springs) "On this issue he couldn't be more wrong. Nothing is more crucial for Colorado than water, and I oppose any suggestion that the federal government should get involved in how we share it with Arizona, California or any other state."

Gov. Bill Ritter (D): "Just last year, the seven states entered into a new implementing agreement, and that agreement is working as intended...It would be sheer folly to re-open the compact at a time like this when all of the states are working cooperatively on this issue."

Denver Post: "Forget about winning our nine electoral votes next November. We don't vote for water rustlers in this state; we tar and feather them! [...] Here's some free advice, wrinkly guy: When campaigning in Colorado, you might survive advocating atheism, taking our guns away or outlawing apple pie. But never, ever, mess with our water.''

Executive director of the Colorado Water Congress Doug Kemper: "I believe our board would be strongly opposed to reopening the compact. We believe that this was something that was negotiated and we’ve relied on for our water-supply planning."

Colorado Water Conservation Board member John Redifer: "I wonder if he is running for president of the United States or for something in Arizona when he makes those statements. I'm really kind of surprised that someone running for president . . . that needs to carry the state of Colorado would make a statement like that."