Governor John Hickenlooper gave his annual State of the State Address in front of a joint session of the General Assembly Thursday. In the speech the governor spoke of his upcoming policies, initiatives, budget proposals and some looming state challenges.
So what does it all mean for the year ahead?
Governor John Hickenlooper said he was intentionally vague at times during the speech, leaving room for the split legislature to work together. In reference to the state's improving economic position and the financial challenges that will bring, the governor noted that "we've got some very difficult choices to make and compromises to make."
Interview Highlights with Governor Hickenlooper
On Constitutional Conflicts Between TABOR, Amendment 23 And Gallagher
"It's going to be tough to get to a point where we can find the right compromise. But one way I guarantee you won't get a compromise is if the governor comes out with a trumpet blaring and says, 'here's my way. We better do it this way.'"
"Both sides are going to have to hold their noses a little bit. But this is the year to get something done. The next 18 months, this is when we have to craft a solution."
On His Oil And Gas Task Force
"I wouldn't be surprised if we get some new ideas from the task force. Twenty-two very smart people, some of the best civic leaders in the entire state. But I think a lot of them will be ideas we've heard before. The question will be, how do we get that to a point of compromise, whereby the legislature, a Republican Senate a Democratic House, how do we get any recommendation to a point where it passes."
On His Second Term Approach
"It is a pivot point. It's such a difference this time. Four years ago I didn't even know where the bathrooms were."
"Now I have a good relationship with over half the legislators. I understand how the system works. I also have a better understanding of what you can and what you can't do. What is the appropriate level of reach. How much ambition can you have."
Transcript and video of Governor Hickenlooper's 2015 State of the State Address.
