Cubin lashes out at Simpson for disclosing conversation

In what could be the opening salvo of a primary battle, Rep. Barbara Cubin (R-Wyo.) denounced Wyoming state Rep. Colin Simpson (R) for disclosing the details of an allegedly private conversation to The Hill in a story that ran Tuesday.

Simpson, a son of former Sen. Alan Simpson (R-Wyo.), is a candidate in the appointment process to replace the late Sen. Craig Thomas (R-Wyo.). He confirmed to The Hill on Monday that he told Cubin last month, before Thomas’s death, that he would challenge her in a primary in 2008.

{mosads}He also said Cubin told him she planned to run for reelection and would make an announcement early next year.
Cubin said she would make an announcement about reelection “when the time is appropriate.”

“It’s unfortunate that Mr. Simpson’s unbridled political ambition would provoke him to share what I considered a private conversation with the press,” Cubin said in a statement. “While I will never fault anyone for enthusiasm, there are just some things you are trusted to keep to yourself.”

Cubin continued with a shot at Simpson’s candidacy: “This move shows a disappointing lack of the judgment and discretion I consider to be absolutely essential characteristics of anyone seeking to represent their fellow citizens in the U.S. Congress.”
Simpson said he was surprised by Cubin’s reaction to the story.

“I have great admiration and respect for Rep. Cubin,” Simpson said. “In my 20-year professional and political career, I’ve practiced candor, honesty and discretion. I know Rep. Cubin and I will move in a positive direction from here.”

In his Monday interview with The Hill, Simpson described his conversation with Cubin as “cordial” and said he wanted her to be the first to know about his plans.

Simpson said he remains interested in the House seat even as the process for replacing Thomas continues. He is considered a top candidate, and he is traveling the state, meeting with members of the 71-person Republican state central committee.

Gov. Dave Freudenthal (D) will appoint the new senator from three names selected by the committee, and there will be a special election in November 2008 to fill out the term.

Thomas died last week after a seven-month battle with leukemia.