Former Gov. John Hickenlooper wins Colorado’s senate seat
COLORADO (KRDO) -- ABC News is projecting former Governor John Hickenlooper to beat incumbent Republican Senator Cory Gardner.
During a Facebook Live, Gardner conceded to Hickenlooper. He said he called and congratulated Hickenlooper during his speech.
The former governor's win creates a Democratic strong hold in Colorado.
Thank you, Colorado! Serving you is the honor of my life, and I can’t wait to be your Senator. https://t.co/KuUD2VwLJP
— John Hickenlooper (@Hickenlooper) November 4, 2020
John Hickenlooper made his acceptance speech a few hours after polling locations closed. He began by thanking the people of Colorado for voting. He also thanked his opponent Cory Gardner for his service as a U.S. Senator.
Now Hickenlooper says he is getting prepared to once again represent Colorado. "There's a lot to do," Hickenlooper says. "So tonight I pledge to you I will work my heart out for this state that I love and I will do everything I can to bring common sense and decency to our work."
After just one term as Colorado's senator, it was not the outcome Cory Gardner or his campaign hoped for. The incumbent republican was a bit emotional when delivering his concession speech 45 minutes after the polls closed in Colorado.
Gardener reflected on some of his proud moments in his six-year term, including helping bring the US Space Command to Colorado Springs.
The Republican incumbent told his supporters that he called Senator-Elect Hickenlooper and promised a smooth transition.
"To all of the people who supported our efforts tonight, that his success is Colorado's success. And our nation and our state need him to succeed. We need to be united together," Gardner said.
This will be the first time in 15 years that Gardner hasn't held public office in Colorado. It's unclear what his future plans are.
"To the people of Colorado, thank you for this great honor to serve you -- this nation's better days are ahead of us. And let none of us forget that. God bless the great state of Colorado and these great United States of America," Gardner said.
