

Last Updated: 25 Oct, 2025 | Views: 183
Age: 73
Profession: Politician
Other Profession(s): Business Men, Geologist
Famous For: U.S. Senator and former governor
Higher Education: Wesleyan University (BA, MS)
About (Profile/Biography):
John Hickenlooper, often called “Hick” by friends and colleagues, is an American politician, businessman, and geologist turned public servant. Born on February 7, 1952, in Narberth, Pennsylvania, he began his career far from politics working as a geologist and later founding one of Denver’s first brewpubs. His journey from beer to ballots is one of the most unusual in U.S. politics. Hickenlooper served as mayor of Denver, then became the 42nd governor of Colorado, and is now a U.S. Senator. Known for his moderate, pro-business stance, he often seeks bipartisan solutions. Though generally scandal-free, he did face ethical scrutiny during his time as governor. Despite this, Hick remains popular in Colorado, often seen as a problem-solver who avoids political extremes. His quirky personality and storytelling charm set him apart in the often-polarized world of Washington.
Early Life & Education of John Hickenlooper
• Hick was raised by a single mother after losing his father to cancer when he was just eight years old.
• He studied English at Wesleyan University and later earned a master’s in geology from the same school.
• His early love for science and curiosity made him an unusual fit for future political life.
Business Career of John Hickenlooper
• After being laid off as a geologist, Hick co-founded Wynkoop Brewing Company, one of Denver’s first brewpubs.
• His brewpub became a cultural hub, helping revitalize the city’s LoDo (Lower Downtown) neighborhood.
• Hick credits his time in business for shaping his views on innovation, teamwork, and economic growth.
Political Rise of John Hickenlooper
• Hick entered politics in 2003, winning the Denver mayoral race despite never holding office before.
• As mayor, he improved public transit and focused on making Denver greener and more efficient.
• His outsider appeal and business background made him a popular figure across party lines.
Governor of Colorado of John Hickenlooper
• As governor (2011–2019), Hick helped guide Colorado through natural disasters, economic growth, and marijuana legalization.
• He supported gun control after a tragic 2012 mass shooting, drawing both praise and criticism.
• Hick also expanded Medicaid under the ACA, showing a centrist yet socially conscious approach.
Controversy around John Hickenlooper
• In 2020, Hick was fined for violating Colorado’s ethics laws by accepting free rides on private jets as governor.
• Though he denied wrongdoing, he later accepted the findings and paid the fines to close the case.
• Critics said it hurt his image of transparency, though supporters viewed it as a minor lapse.
U.S. Senate Role of John Hickenlooper
• Hick was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2020, defeating incumbent Cory Gardner in a closely watched race.
• In the Senate, he focuses on climate policy, infrastructure, and small business support.
• His reputation as a moderate continues to shape his bipartisan outreach in Washington.
Awards & Recognitions received by John Hickenlooper
• Hick was named “Public Official of the Year” by Governing magazine in 2005 for his work in Denver.
• He was a featured speaker at the 2012 Democratic National Convention, highlighting his national appeal.
• His memoir The Opposite of Woe earned praise for its humor and storytelling honesty.
Lesser-Known Facts about John Hickenlooper
• Hick is legally blind in one eye due to a childhood eye condition but rarely speaks about it.
• He proposed to his wife while watching Top Chef and once appeared as a guest judge on the show.
• He once played banjo in a bluegrass band and still enjoys jamming with local musicians in Colorado.
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