Joe Rice, American colonel and politician
Joe Rice (born May 7, 1967) is a distinguished public servant and U.S. Army Reserve officer with a multifaceted career spanning local government, military service, and state legislation in Colorado. A veteran of the Iraq War and former mayor of Glendale, Colorado, Rice currently serves as Director of Government Relations for Lockheed Martin Space, a major aerospace and defense contractor. In addition to his civilian role, he continues to serve as a Colonel in the United States Army Reserve.
Rice began his political journey in 1994 when he was elected to the Glendale City Council. Just two years later, in 1996, he became mayor, championing a platform aimed at transforming Glendale into a more "resident-friendly" community. His leadership emphasized inclusive urban planning and civic engagement within the Denver enclave. Re-elected in 2000, Rice resigned in 2003 after being called to active duty, marking the first of five deployments to Iraq. During his service, he was appointed as a senior advisor to both the Baghdad City Council and Iraqi security forces, playing a crucial role in post-conflict reconstruction and governance.
Building on his local governance and military experience, Rice entered state politics and was elected to the Colorado House of Representatives in 2006 as a Democrat. He represented House District 38, which includes the communities of Littleton, Greenwood Village, Bow Mar, and sections of Centennial, Aurora, Englewood, and Columbine Valley. During his tenure from 2007 to 2010, Rice earned a reputation as a bipartisan problem-solver, particularly noted for his leadership on transportation and infrastructure issues.
One of his most significant legislative accomplishments was co-sponsoring a major 2009 transportation funding bill. The legislation addressed Colorado’s aging infrastructure by increasing vehicle registration fees to help clear a significant backlog of repairs and upgrades to roads and bridges across the state. Additionally, Rice supported criminal justice reform by helping establish a statewide cold case homicide unit aimed at solving long-unsolved crimes. He also advocated for small businesses by working to reduce the business personal property tax—a move designed to stimulate local economic growth.
After serving two terms in the legislature, Rice faced a closely contested race in 2010 and narrowly lost his reelection bid, receiving 49% of the vote to his opponent’s 51%.
Throughout his varied career, Joe Rice has earned recognition for his public service, combining leadership in combat zones with legislative achievements at home. His professional trajectory exemplifies a commitment to service, civic improvement, and national defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Joe Rice known for?
Joe Rice is known for his service as mayor of Glendale, Colorado; his two terms in the Colorado House of Representatives; and his military service in Iraq, where he served as an advisor during multiple deployments.
What roles has Joe Rice held in the military?
Rice serves as a Colonel in the United States Army Reserve and has completed five tours in Iraq, where he notably advised the Baghdad City Council and Iraqi security forces.
What was Joe Rice’s focus in the Colorado legislature?
His legislative work focused on transportation funding, infrastructure improvement, public safety through cold case investigations, and economic development via tax reform for businesses.
What is Joe Rice doing now?
He currently works at Lockheed Martin Space, where he manages government relations, and continues his service in the Army Reserve.
What is House District 38?
House District 38 is a legislative district in Colorado that includes parts of Littleton, Greenwood Village, Bow Mar, and areas of Centennial, Aurora, Englewood, and Columbine Valley.