By Tasia DeMuth
FORT COLLINS, Colo. -- Cheers, whistles and loud applause welcomed Gov.-elect John Hickenlooper, as he thanked his supporters and promised to get to work right away on increasing jobs and making government more efficient and effective for all of Colorado.
“Starting tonight, we set aside our differences and work together to rebuild hope in our state and get our economy back on track,” said Hickenlooper.
Hickenlooper gave his victory speech on Tuesday at Democrat headquarters after he won with 51 percent of the vote against opponents Tom Tancredo who had 36 percent of the vote, and Dan Maes who had 8 percent. The governor-elect emphasized that, in order for Colorado to get back on track, everyone needs to be on the same page, working towards the same goals.
“But it's going to take all of us. It's going to take Democrats, Republicans, and everyone in between....It's going to take ranchers, farmers, artists, teachers, developers, seniors, environmentalists, and entrepreneurs. It's time to set aside those labels. Everyone is needed at this table,” said Hickenlooper.
Throughout his campaign, Hickenlooper has conveyed his determination to help increase jobs in Colorado, as well as improve higher education. Further, he is dedicated to ending the strain on Coloradoans that has resulted from the recession. He again mentioned these objectives as he brought the crowd to a frenzy.
Hickenlooper also touched on the fact that his campaign has not distributed a single negative ad. The governor-elect is particularly proud of this fact as it demonstrates that support for his cause was the key to getting him elected, not a greater dislike for his opponent.
“You have made history tonight by showing you can win with a message of what you are for, not who you're against,” said Hickenlooper.
Hickenlooper thanked his supporters and his running mate Joe Garcia for their contributions and devotion to the cause. He also expressed his gratitude towards Governor Bill Ritter for his many contributions to Colorado and his support for Hickenlooper. The governor-elect stopped mid-speech to give Ritter a big embrace.
"I was looking for him (Ritter) out there," said Hickenlooper as he looked out at the crowd, "but he was right beside me. That's a lesson for everyone."
But mostly, Hickenlooper highlighted the idea of hope for Colorado. Hope for better education for Colorado’s children, hope for more jobs for everyone, and hope that Colorado can be the best that it can be.
“We are one Colorado, and our future begins right now,” said Hickenlooper.
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