DENVER (AP) — The presidential campaigns in Colorado are stepping up their efforts to repeat national talking points using in-state politicians.

The Mitt Romney campaign planned an event Wednesday with prominent Colorado Republicans, criticizing President Barack Obama’s economic policies.

Former congressman Bob Beauprez and former Sen. Hank Brown planned a press conference outside the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, where Obama signed the stimulus law in 2009.

A few hours after the Romney event, the Obama campaign planned an event in Brighton. State Sen. Mary Hodge was planning to be on hand for the opening of a campaign office and to argue Romney favors the rich over the middle class.

Both events echo themes being promoted by the national campaigns. Colorado’s nine electoral votes could prove crucial in a close contest.

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)