Hickenlooper: “I will spend the first 100 days trying to find budget cuts”

Gov.-elect John Hickenlooper told newly elected legislative leaders Thursday he will spend the first 100 days of his administration trying to find budget cuts that cause the least damage and provide maximum benefit.

Hickenlooper congratulated Republicans on winning back the majority in the House and promised all 100 legislators they will have a role in shaping state policy.

He also warned lawmakers, including fellow Democrats, that he won’t give them credit if they don’t take part in putting those policies together.

“We need you guys to take ownership. There is no point giving credit if people haven’t done the work,” he said.

Republican Rep. Frank McNulty of Highlands Ranch, who was chosen to be House speaker after the GOP appeared poised to win a razor-thin, 33-32 majority, said he plans to take Hickenlooper up on his offer to meet to discuss the budget, one of the top priorities when lawmakers return to work in January.    – More -