Hickenlooper considering ending presidential bid to run for Senate: report

Former Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper (D) is considering ending his White House bid and pursuing a Senate run instead, The New York Times reported Tuesday.

Four Democratic sources familiar with his thinking told the outlet that the two-term governor is giving serious consideration to challenging Republican Sen. Cory Gardner (Colo.), a move many have have called for in hopes of helping Democrats retake the Senate.

{mosads}Hickenlooper reportedly discussed the possibility with Sen. Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), another 2020 candidate, during a drive before an event in Iowa.

Aides and advisers to the Colorado politicians declined to comment to the Times on what was discussed during the ride.

Hickenlooper’s campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Hill on his plans.

Colorado could play a key role in Democratic efforts to retake the Senate.

While there are already 11 declared candidates in the Democratic field, Hickenlooper would bring a high level of name recognition and popularity in Colorado.

Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) has reportedly been trying to recruit him to run for months.

Hickenlooper has struggled to establish a foothold in the presidential race, and is far from qualifying for the third and fourth Democratic primary debates this fall.