Hickenlooper Conflict With Obama?

Does Governor Hickenlooper have reservations supporting President Obama with his harsh anti-free market, anti-wealth creation rhetoric?  This may be a problem for Hickenlooper, who used the word “entrepreneurial” a dozen times in his State of the State speech.

There is a growing rift between the business, entrepreneurial wing of the Democratic Party and the campaign’s populist themes, especially the harsh anti-business advertising (Bain ads).  Newark, New Jersey Mayor Cory Booker is the latest and most visible member of the Party’s reform and centrist wing to raise objections to the campaign’s strategy.

Hickenlooper, as a centrist Democrat, has tried mightily to find consensus positions with Republicans.  He often points out that numerous bills, including for economic development and business, passed with super majorities.

Obama needs Hickenlooper.  The Governor’s approval rating in the metro area is 22 percentage points higher than Obama’s.  The metro area is 55 percent of the state’s voters and contains the swing suburbs needed for a statewide victory.

Not surprising, fundraising for the Obama campaign is down.  It seems a miracle Obama can still pick up $40,000 checks from the business community as he did last Wednesday.

Hickenlooper has endorsed the President.  Has he expressed concern about the campaign’s tone?  Will he campaign for Obama?