Mark Hillman is a Colorado native, farmer, “recovering journalist.” He served as Senate Majority Leader and as State Treasurer. He believes that personal responsibility, limited government and individual liberty are essential foundations of a government that respects the people.
Mark was elected to two terms in the Colorado State Senate, representing the state’s largest legislative district covering 12 counties and more than 21,000 square miles. Mark was elected to leadership posts for five of his seven years in the Senate, including both Majority Leader and Minority Leader. In June 2005, he was appointed to serve as Colorado State Treasurer.
Mark’s dynamic, common sense leadership earned recognition from state and national organizations, including:
- National Legislator of the Year from the American Legislative Exchange Council and the National Republican Legislators Association.
- Champion of the Taxpayer from the Colorado Union of Taxpayers.
- Outstanding Senator from Colorado Farm Bureau.
- Guardian of Small Business from National Federation of Independent Business.
- Common Sense in the Courtroom from the Colorado Civil Justice League.
During his service in the Colorado Senate, Mark focused on protecting the rights of private property owners against government takings, halting frivolous lawsuits and demanding personal responsibility, promoting economic opportunities in rural Colorado, and empowering parents through educational choice and accountability. Mark also enjoys communicating these common-sense principles through the media. His commentaries have appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Denver Post, Rocky Mountain News, Colorado Springs Gazette, Pueblo Chieftain, Fort Collins Coloradoan, Greeley Tribune, Loveland Reporter Herald, Longmont Daily Times Call, Grand Junction Daily Sentinel, Durango Herald and numerous other publications.
Mark operates his family’s farm near Burlington, growing winter wheat and raising thoroughbred horses. He and his wife, Heidi, have two sons.
In addition, Mark works as executive director of Colorado Civil Justice League which advocates for tort reform and an end to abusive lawsuits. He serves on his local school board and ground water management district board.