 During the primary campaign, Scheffel touted his experience as a tax attorney and familiarity as an asset in the legislature, but was outraised by Denny, who took in about $24,000 to Scheffel's $18,000.Scheffel was also endorsed by retiring U.S. Rep. Tom Tancredo.Mark Scheffel ultimately defeated Bob Denney in the contested Republican primary in August, taking 65 percent of votes cast.