Deputy secretary of state to retire

The real man behind the power in the Colorado Secretary of State's Office is retiring.

Bill Hobbs, who has spent the past 12 years behind five secretaries of state, announced today he was stepping away from state governorment work after a 31-year career.

“It is with a great deal of excitement — and a little sadness — that I announce to you my plan to retire from state government,” Hobbs said in an email to friends and colleagues. “After 31 years with state government, including the last 12 years with the Secretary of State’s Office, the timing feels right for me to try some new adventures, both personal and professional.”

Appointed by Secretary of State Donetta Davidson in 1999, Hobbs has been the power behind the power, including serving as interim secretary of state twice when the elected secretary left for other positions.

“I am truly fortunate to have worked with so many outstanding individuals in my career with state government,” Hobbs said. “I will miss the camaraderie and the wonderful colleagues I’ve had the pleasure to work with.”