This morning I read in The Denver Post that Denver's mayor John Hickenlooper will not challenge Colorado's governor Bill Ritter. Too bad! If he did he would have my vote. I am a longtime resident of Denver and seen many mayors come and go. For example, there was Wellington Webb, Federico Pena, Quig Newton, and Bill McNichols, to just name a few. Denver has grown up from a cow town to a large city. Denver was large enough to host The Democratic National Convention last year. In my time period, Denver has really changed.

In my opinion Hick has shown to be a leader where Ritter has stumbled in the leadership category. Hick also has the charm and charisma to be a successful and a liked politician. Hick has the ability to say no and the opposition may not agree, but they do not get upset or mad. Ritter says no or vetoes' and the other party become mad or irritated. This is just speculation on my part since I have not been behind any closed doors with either gentleman. However, newspaper articles appear to show this problem for Ritter.

Many voters vote for the personality instead of the candidates qualifications. If I was stranded on a tropical island, I would prefer to be stranded with Hick instead of Ritter. I think after a period of time Ritter has the personality that would get on my nerves and then what would happen?

Another thing Hick has going for him is that he came from a business background. Ritter's background comes from the halls of lawyers and attorneys. I am not a big fan of all these attorneys going into politics. I always lean to a person with business experience and actually managing something.

If Mayor Hickenlooper has the desire to advance in the political arena I feel he will do well. Hick has my vote of confidence. Maybe if many sources and groups push Mayor Hick into going further in his political career he may be swayed to reconsider. Go for it Hick!