Colorado Politics Weekend

A few interesting items today I wanted to mention. First off, the Rocky has named John Hickenlooper Business Person of the Year for 2003. The article covers his business history from his childhood to today as well as some of his business victories since becoming Mayor. Congratulations!

Hickenlooper, 51, embodies the modern-day pioneer spirit of Colorado, said Tom Clark, president of the Metro Denver Economic Development Corp.

"He started anew in Colorado, earned his stripes the hard way and brought his passion for being a successful businessperson into civic life," Clark said. "He is the ultimate citizen politician. You couldn't ask for a greater definition of the Business Person of the Year. I think he is a great choice. He is so friggin' unpretentious. I hope he stays that way."

Also in the Rocky is a profile of Michael Bennet, Hickenlooper's chief of staff. It's a must read to understand the kind of dedicated people Hickenlooper attracts to make Denver a better place.

"At the end of the day," said Kurt Hall, one of the chief executive officers of Regal Entertainment Group, "he's one of the guys that I can count on one hand that I've dealt with in the investment world that have character."

Last, but certainly not least, the Colorado Supreme Court will be ruling on whether the Republican redistricting plan for the state will be allowed to move forward.

The court fight could have major implications, with Republicans now holding five of the state's seven congressional seats and hoping to solidify their hold on those.

Democrats on the other hand hope to pick up two of those seats - if they win the court fight.

Democrats need to gain 12 seats to take control of the 435-member House, an uphill fight in view of state-by-state redistricting in 2001. A GOP redistricting plan in Texas could add to the GOP majority - although that plan, too, is being challenged in court - and help President Bush in a re-election bid.

Political experts say if the redistricting plans in Colorado and Texas are allowed to stand, it could lead to similar changes nationwide.

The rulings will be available here on Monday.