Posted April 9, 2026
On Tuesday, Paul Pazen, a lifelong Denver resident, Marine Corps veteran, and former Denver Police Chief, proudly announced that his campaign for Denver City Council District 2 has been endorsed by former Denver Mayors Federico Peña, Wellington E. Webb, and Michael Hancock.
Pazen, a long-time public servant who led the development of the nationally recognized Support Team Assisted Response (STAR) program and expanded mental health co-responder initiatives and other proactive public safety initiatives during his 28-year career with the Denver Police Department, is stepping forward to address community concerns regarding affordability, improving city services, supporting seniors and veterans, upward mobility, and safe neighborhoods for District 2 and the City.
“Paul Pazen understands that good government means listening to residents, supporting small businesses, and making responsible decisions that protect both our quality of life and our future. His decades of service to this city reflect integrity, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to the community. I encourage voters to join me in supporting Paul Pazen for Denver City Council District 2,” said former Denver Mayor Federico Peña.
“Paul Pazen is a lifelong Denver resident who knows and understands our city because he’s dedicated his entire career to serving it,” said former Denver Mayor Wellington E. Webb. “From patrol officer to Chief of Police, Paul has worked in every part of Denver and formed strong bonds with its communities along the way. Paul brings compassion, experience, and a proven track record of leadership. He’s what’s best for the city. I ask you to support Paul Pazen for Denver City Council District 2.”
Former Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock also offered his endorsement, stating: “Paul is a focused, visionary, and determined leader Denver needs for the future. He’s been tested. His love for Denver and her people has powered him in times of challenge and uncertainty to lean in, demonstrate resilience, and strength when we have needed him the most. He is a solid choice for City Council.”
In response to the historic endorsements, Paul Pazen shared the following statement: “I am incredibly grateful to have the support of Mayor Peña, Mayor Webb and Mayor Hancock. All three of these mayors made an indelible mark on Denver through their vision and leadership, traits I hope to bring with me as I work to earn the support of voters in Southwest Denver.”
Paul Pazen and his wife, Shirley, have lived in District 2 for over 30 years, raising their three sons in Southwest Denver. As Chief of Police, Pazen focused on making public safety “smarter, more humane, and more effective” by increasing officer training in de-escalation and creating specialized units for human trafficking and hate crimes. Now, he’s running to find innovative solutions to livability, affordability, and upward mobility for the city that raised him. To learn more, visit www.paulpazen.com
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