SAN FRANCISCO — Former Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper faced boos throughout his remarks Saturday at the California Democratic Party convention.
In the middle of his speech, Hickenlooper warned his party against turning towards socialism and alienating moderate voters.
“If we want to beat Donald Trump and achieve big progressive goals, socialism is not the answer,” Hickenlooper said as the audience jeered. “If we’re not careful, we’re going to end up helping to re-elect the worst president in American history.”
Members of the audience began flashing their “Bernie 2020” signs as Hickenlooper attempted to win back the audience by pledging to take on the National Rifle Association. Another attendee flashed the former governor the middle finger.
Hickenlooper ended his remarks to more boos as he criticized “Medicare for all,” saying it would be improper to kick tens of millions of Americans off their employer-backed healthcare plans. Instead, Hickenlooper said he supports a public option as a compromise, then was forced to end his speech as music began playing.
