Scoop Colorado pauses campaign finance database after Minnesota shootings

The Colorado Secretary of State's office temporarily suspended its public campaign finance database, TRACER, due to safety fears following a deadly shooting targeting Minnesota lawmakers. The database contained sensitive information, such as home addresses and personal phone numbers, raising privacy concerns. Secretary of State Jena Griswold made the decision after consulting with state leadership, emphasizing the need for caution in light of recent events. The site is currently labeled "down for maintenance" and will return once lawmakers can request redactions of personal information, which is allowed by law. This situation underscores the delicate balance between ensuring public transparency and protecting lawmakers' privacy and safety.

Other states have reacted similarly, ramping up security and removing online personal data. The Minnesota incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by public officials. Senate President James Coleman has indicated that lawmakers are on higher alert and is open to discussing further protective legislation next session.