Former Colorado Governor, John Hickenlooper, is eyeing a run for the Democratic Party’s 2020 presidential nomination and made his way through western Iowa this weekend to test the waters. He began his tour in Woodbury County before making his way to Kerp’s Tavern in Carroll on Saturday afternoon to speak with potential voters. Before entering politics, he was a geologist and businessman, later co-founding the Wynkoop Brewing Company in Denver. Hickenlooper was Denver’s mayor from 2003 to 2011 and more recently served as governor from 2011 to 2019. He believes little progress can be made in the current political climate because it is so adversarial, and he cites his first campaign for mayor as proof that positivity can work.
His leadership style led him to become one of Colorado’s most popular governors, and while in the role, he brought traditionally-opposed groups, such as environmentalists and oil and gas companies, to address climate change together.
He adds that both parties were pleased with the results. Methane emissions were reduced, and energy companies were able to capitalize on their green practices. Hickenlooper says that he does not just focus on the metropolitan areas. He initiated an effort to revitalize the rural economy by expanding broadband access to smaller communities, bringing businesses along with it.
Prior to his stop in Carroll Saturday afternoon, Hickenlooper was in Sioux City for a meet-and-greet with the Woodbury County Democrats. He also traveled to Ames later that evening to attend the Story County Democrats’ annual soup supper. Hickenlooper has formed a political action committee but is yet to formally announce his candidacy.
