Two of three appointees approved; Skiba withdraws nomination

Two of the Governor’s three appointees to the state Parks and Wildlife Commission won Senate approval, but not without a fight.

And the third — acknowledged as the author of the state’s wolf restoration ballot measure — withdrew his nomination, but not without complaining to the commission about how he was treated in the confirmation process.

The Senate confirmed John “Jack” Murphy of Denver to represent outdoor recreation and parks on a 23-11 vote on March 12.

But the nomination of Jessica Beaulieu was much closer, a 19-15 vote, and opponents hoped they had the votes to reject the appointment...