John Hickenlooper

American politician and businessman

John Wright Hickenlooper Jr. (born February 7, 1952) is an American politician, businessman, and geologist serving as the junior United States Senator from Colorado since 2021. A member of the Democratic Party, he served as the 42nd Governor of Colorado from 2011 to 2019 and as the 43rd Mayor of Denver from 2003 to 2011.

Early life and education

John Hickenlooper was born in Narberth, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia. He attended The Haverford School and later graduated from Wesleyan University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English in 1974. He went on to earn a Master of Science degree in geology in 1980, also from Wesleyan.

Business career

After completing his education, Hickenlooper moved to Colorado to work as a geologist. However, following a downturn in the oil industry, he was laid off. He then co-founded the Wynkoop Brewing Company in 1988, one of the first brewpubs in the United States, which played a significant role in revitalizing the LoDo district of Denver.

Political career

Mayor of Denver

John Hickenlooper at the 2008 Democratic National Convention

Hickenlooper was elected as the Mayor of Denver in 2003. During his tenure, he focused on urban renewal and infrastructure projects, including the expansion of the city's public transportation system. He was re-elected in 2007 with a significant majority.

Governor of Colorado

Governor John Hickenlooper

In 2010, Hickenlooper was elected as the Governor of Colorado. His administration focused on economic development, education reform, and environmental issues. He was re-elected in 2014. As governor, he signed legislation to regulate the marijuana industry following its legalization in Colorado.

U.S. Senate

In 2020, Hickenlooper was elected to the United States Senate, defeating incumbent Republican Cory Gardner. As a senator, he has focused on issues such as climate change, healthcare, and infrastructure.

2020 Presidential Campaign

John Hickenlooper 2020 presidential campaign logo

Hickenlooper announced his candidacy for the 2020 United States presidential election in March 2019. His campaign emphasized his experience as a governor and his ability to work across party lines. However, he withdrew from the race in August 2019 and subsequently announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate.

Personal life

Hickenlooper has been married twice and has one son. He is known for his love of craft beer and has been an advocate for the brewing industry throughout his career.

Related pages

• List of governors of Colorado
• List of mayors of Denver
• United States Senate election in Colorado, 2020