Podcasts about colorado politics

Chuck And Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden Colorado GOP Shakeup: Craig Steiner, Opt-Out, Party Strategy, and the Road Ahead Guest, Ted Harvey The CO GOP elected a new party chair - Craig Steiner from Douglas County. Supporter Ted Harvey joins the show and assures grassroots Steiner fully backs opting out of the disastrous open primary. Plus Tina Peters is free today! Chuck and Julie Open with Colorado Republican Party News In this episode of The Chuck and Julie Show, hosts Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden open with major news from the Colorado Republican Party. They discuss the party meeting in Buena Vista, where Craig Steiner of Douglas County was elected the new Colorado GOP chair after defeating Joe Oltmann and Jeremy Goodall. The hosts bring on former Colorado legislator and strategist Ted Harvey, who supported Steiner's campaign and helped explain what the leadership change may mean for the party going forward. Ted Harvey Describes Craig Steiner as a Tactician Ted Harvey describes Craig Steiner as a political tactician rather than a loud partisan figure. He explains that Steiner previously served as secretary and chair of the Douglas County Republican Party and created a voter-targeting program called Voter Spectrum, which has been used for get-out-the-vote efforts, door knocking, phone banking, and campaign organizing. Harvey argues that Steiner is strong on conservative issues such as life, guns, taxes, unions, and education, and points to Douglas County victories, including Republican wins and school-board efforts, as evidence that Steiner understands how to organize and win. Ballot Harvesting and Get-Out-the-Vote Strategy Chuck asks about ballot harvesting and whether it will be part of the Colorado GOP's future strategy. He recalls using absentee voting and ballot collection in Glendale years earlier and argues that Republicans have often been outworked by Democrats on this front. Harvey says Douglas County Republicans have used similar tactics successfully, especially in smaller races where turnout is lower, but acknowledges that large-scale ballot harvesting requires money, volunteers, organization, and paid effort. He also notes that the Colorado Republican Party does not currently have much money, making fundraising and organizational rebuilding essential. The Opt-Out Issue and Republican Primaries A major focus of the interview is Colorado's opt-out issue, tied to the party's ability to opt out of open primaries and return more candidate selection power to Republican caucus and assembly participants. Harvey says he has been on the front line helping push opt-out efforts and would not have supported Steiner if Steiner were not aligned with him on that issue. He says Steiner opposed Proposition 108 when it was on the ballot and believed the party should opt out as quickly as possible. Harvey argues that establishment figures have used open primaries to influence Republican nominations and keep conservatives from winning. Party Debt, Legal Bills, and Donor Confidence Chuck and Julie also ask about party finances, debt, and legal bills left from the previous administration. Harvey says donors were reluctant to give money while the party appeared focused on legal battles and internal fights rather than electing Republicans. He says Steiner's first task will be to understand the lawsuits, invoices, and financial obligations facing the party. Harvey believes that if donors see competent leadership and assurance that money will go toward winning elections instead of paying attorneys, they may begin contributing again. Neutral Leadership and Avoiding the Enemy List The hosts discuss internal party fights, including what they describe as “enemy lists” and attacks on grassroots conservatives under prior party leadership. Harvey says Steiner will not create an enemy list and will not use the chairmanship to put his thumb on the scale in primaries. While Chuck and Julie express interest in seeing some establishment Republicans challenged, Harvey argues that the chair should not personally drive primary attacks. Instead, he says the state party should focus on making the process fair and preventing establishment forces from tilting the playing field against conservatives. The RNC, NRCC, and Future Assemblies Harvey says the Republican National Committee and national Republican groups will need to decide whether to work with the Colorado GOP if the party moves forward with opt-out. He argues that Steiner's temperament may help because Steiner is not a bomb-thrower, but someone focused on doing the work. Harvey says the party will need to prepare for a very different nomination process, including state, county, state House, and state Senate assemblies where Republican activists and caucus participants will have far more influence in selecting nominees. Tina Peters Released from Custody After the Ted Harvey interview, Chuck and Julie turn to the release of Tina Peters, who was freed that morning. They discuss her interview with Steve Bannon, where she said she remained concerned about election machines and vote-flipping claims. Chuck and Julie criticize media descriptions that characterize Peters as being imprisoned for “election fraud,” arguing that the actual charges related to official misconduct, impersonation, and attempts to influence a public servant. They also criticize Republicans and Democrats who opposed her release, while noting that Governor Jared Polis may have had political reasons for granting relief. Colorado Politics, Jared Polis, and Party Divisions The hosts speculate about Governor Jared Polis's motives, including whether his decision regarding Tina Peters may be connected to future national ambitions. They also discuss divisions within Colorado politics, the role of county clerks, and the divide between grassroots Republicans and establishment figures. Chuck argues that the state may eventually become ready for a real alternative to Democratic governance if economic and political conditions continue to decline, though he also acknowledges that opt-out alone will not guarantee statewide Republican victories. Media Humor, Spencer Pratt, and Campaign Messaging The episode later shifts into commentary on media, campaign ads, and political humor. Chuck and Julie discuss Spencer Pratt's Los Angeles mayoral campaign messaging and praise a satirical ad portraying left-leaning media outlets as a kind of ideological treatment. They argue that humor can be powerful political messaging when it is funny because it contains truth. The hosts contrast this style with Republican messaging they see as less creative, saying conservatives could benefit from sharper, more intelligent humor. CBS, CNN, Barry Weiss, and Legacy Media The hosts also comment on legacy media upheaval, including reports involving Barry Weiss, CBS/60 Minutes figures, Scott Pelley, Anderson Cooper, CNN, and possible changes in major network leadership. Chuck and Julie frame these developments as signs that old media institutions are losing influence and that some longtime media personalities may not understand how much the media landscape has changed. Their broader point is that legacy outlets can no longer assume the same level of audience control or cultural authority they once had. Closing Thoughts on the Colorado GOP's Future Chuck and Julie close by saying they believe Craig Steiner's leadership could help stabilize and revitalize the Colorado Republican Party, especially if the opt-out process moves forward. They describe him as a calmer, more practical chair who may not be as combative as past figures but may be better suited to rebuilding party structure. The episode ends with optimism that the party may be moving toward a more grassroots-driven future, even while acknowledging that organization, money, unity, and candidate quality will still determine whether Republicans can win.

The Peter Boyles Show - May 23, 2026 HOUR 4: Hour 4 bounced between Colorado politics and Military history. Callers criticized Victor Marx’s campaign style, heavy security presence, and media strategy, while Peter Boyles questioned whether Marx was building long-term personal branding more than a serious gubernatorial run. The second half turned into a deep discussion about JFK, Cuba, the Bay of Pigs, Khrushchev, Vietnam, and public distrust after the Kennedy assassination. Boyles argued the 1960s truly began with JFK’s death and ended with Nixon’s resignation, calling that era a permanent turning point in American political culture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday, May 18th, 2026 Today, a former judge weighs in on Trump's $1.7B slush fund for January 6th rioters in a court filing; the Senate parliamentarian has stripped the $1B ballroom provision from Republican's budget reconciliation bill; Colorado Governor Jared Polis has commuted the sentence of voter data thief Tina Peters; the Federal Aviation Administration is going to sharply cut the number of air traffic controllers; a Texas hospital will create a detransition clinic as part of a settlement with AG Ken Paxton; Senator Bill Cassidy lost his primary as Democrat Jamie Davis advances in Louisiana; and Allison Delivers your Good News. Thank You, Helix 27% Off Sitewide when you go to HelixSleep.com/dailybeans Thank You, BoxieCat For a limited time, get 30% off your order when you head to Boxiecat.com/DAILYBEANS and use code DAILYBEANS.   California Rising - It was a powerful night to launch the fight to win back the House! The show is over but you can still help us reach our fundraising goal! bluewavecalifornia.org/concert   The Latest Breakdown:Retired Judge Blasts Trump's $1.7B Slush Fund for Allies | The Breakdown StoriesTina Peters, Colorado Election Denier, Will Be Freed by Gov. Jared Polis | The New York Times FAA cuts target for air traffic control staffing | Reuters Texas Children's Hospital to develop ‘detransition clinic,' fire physicians as part of settlement, AG says | Houston Public Media Sen. Bill Cassidy loses GOP primary in Louisiana as two rivals advance to runoff | NBC News Senate parliamentarian rejects Trump's ballroom fund in budget bill | NBC News Good Trouble STOP the deportation proceedings against Mohsen Mahdawi - Action Network   →SusanRogan - how-to-help-win-the-midterms →detentionwatchnetwork.org →Deliver Mother's Day to the Moms of Dilley →Letter Carriers' “Stamp Out Hunger“ Food Drive →FieldTeam6.org →Standwithminnesota.com →Tell Congress Ice out Now | Indivisible, Defund ICE | 5Calls →Congress: Divest From ICE and CBP | ACLU →ICE List  →iceout.org Good News →Share your Good News & Good Trouble - The Daily Beans →Beans Talk audio -beans-talk.simplecast.com →Email Dana LGBTQ Owned eating establishments in your area - hello@mswmedia.com Subject: “Dana's Project” Subscribe to the MSW YouTube Channel - MSW Media - YouTube Harry Dunn is running for CongressHarry Dunn for Maryland Our Donation Links The Daily Beans is donating $10,000 and invites you to give what you can to support their life-affirming work - Donate to It Gets Better / The Daily Beans Fundraiser The Daily beans is donating $10,000 and invites you to give what you can to support their life-affirming work - Donate to It Gets Better / The Daily Beans Fundraiser Pathways to Citizenship link to MATCH Allison's Donationhttps://crm.bloomerang.co/HostedDonation?ApiKey=pub_86ff5236-dd26-11ec-b5ee-066e3d38bc77&WidgetId=6388736 Join Dana and The Daily Beans in support of Human Rights Campaign http://onecau.se/_ekes71 More Donation LinksNational Security Counselors - Donate, ActBlue.com/donate/msw-bwc, WhistleblowerAid.org/beans Dr. Allison Gill - The Breakdown | Allison Gill, Mueller, She Wrote @muellershewrote.com - Bluesky, MSW & The Daily Beans Podcast @muellershewrote - Instagram, MSW Media - YouTube →Federal workers - email AG at fedoath@pm.me and let me know what you're going to do, or just vent. I'm always here to listen.  Dana Goldberg - Dana is on Patreon! At Dana's Dugout, @dgcomedy - Bluesky, @dgcomedy - IG, Dana Goldberg - Facebook,  DanaGoldberg.com More from MSW Media - Shows - MSW Media, Cleanup On Aisle 45 pod, The Breakdown | Allison Gill Reminder - you can see the pod pics if you become a Patron. The good news pics are at the bottom of the show notes of each Patreon episode! That's just one of the perks of subscribing! patreon.com/muellershewrote Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:https://apple.co/3XNx7ckWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?https://patreon.com/thedailybeanshttps://dailybeans.supercast.com/https://apple.co/3UKzKt0 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Peter Boyles Show - May 16, 2026 HOUR 1: Colorado politics exploded live on-air as Peter Boyles reacted to Governor Jared Polis commuting the sentence of former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters after months of pressure from President Donald Trump and national election activists. Peter calls the entire situation “Kabuki theater” as callers from across Colorado debate whether Peters was unfairly targeted, whether Polis folded under political pressure, and whether this move reshapes the 2026 political landscape. The show dives deep into: Election integrity and public trust The political fallout for Polis, Phil Weiser, and Michael Bennet Whether Tina Peters became a political pawn Trump’s influence on Colorado politics Colorado’s growing divide between conservatives and progressives Why callers believe this decision was tied to federal money, water negotiations, and political leverage PLUS: Sheriff Steve Reams joins Peter live (via Phone) ! --- The opinions expressed by the hosts and guests on this program are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Salem Media Group, its management, employees, affiliates, or advertisers. This content is intended for commentary and discussion purposes only, and the perspectives shared during the broadcast belong solely to the individuals expressing them. ©Salem Media Group. All rights reserved. This program and its audio content may not be reproduced, redistributed, or re-uploaded in any form without express written consent from Salem Media Group.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Peter Boyles Show May 16, 2026 HOUR 4: Colorado politics just took another dramatic turn. Peter Boyles opens the phones and dives deep into the fallout after Governor Jared Polis commuted the sentence of former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters. What happens next? Who benefits politically? And perhaps the biggest question of all — who will Tina Peters endorse in Colorado’s already chaotic governor’s race? Peter is joined by Matt Crane, Executive Director of the Colorado County Clerks Association, for a heated conversation surrounding election integrity, the Tina Peters controversy, Mike Lindell connections, political pressure from President Trump, and the growing divide inside the Republican Party. Callers weigh in with theories, frustrations, and predictions as the discussion turns toward Victor Marx, Scott Bottoms, Michael Bennet, Phil Weiser, and the future of Colorado politics. From election denial debates to gubernatorial maneuvering, this episode captures the unpredictable energy shaping Colorado in 2026. --- The opinions expressed by the hosts and guests on this program are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Salem Media Group, its management, employees, affiliates, or advertisers. This content is intended for commentary and discussion purposes only, and the perspectives shared during the broadcast belong solely to the individuals expressing them. ©Salem Media Group. All rights reserved. This program and its audio content may not be reproduced, redistributed, or re-uploaded in any form without express written consent from Salem Media Group.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222 Monday - Friday from 3 pm - 6 pm MT. https://RushToReason.com HOUR 1 Fear, Health Risks, And The Hidden Toxins Shaping Modern Life. Hour 1 of Rush To Reason takes listeners deep into some of the most controversial and unsettling health conversations happening today. John Rush is joined by Dr. Kelly Victory and Steve House for a fast-moving discussion that begins with growing fears about Hantavirus, media-driven panic, and questions about whether another public fear campaign is unfolding. But the conversation quickly expands into something much larger. Are Americans becoming sicker because of modern lifestyles, toxic food systems, environmental exposure, or something even deeper? The hour tackles everything from vaccine-related heart concerns and rising atrial fibrillation cases to alarming increases in colorectal cancer among younger adults. Listeners hear discussions about routine screenings, elevated iron levels, preventive care, GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, microplastics, processed foods, and why so many people feel trapped in a healthcare system driven by fear and uncertainty. Along the way, John shares reflections about his father's cancer battle and his own exposure to chemicals in the automotive industry. HOUR 2 Colorado Politics, Campaign Chaos, And The Cultural Divide Nobody Wants To Admit Exists. Hour 2 takes a sharp turn into Colorado politics, Republican infighting, election strategy, and the growing disconnect between political reality and political ego. John spends much of the hour dissecting ballot access rules, the SAVE Act, mail-in voting, and why he believes Greg Lopez remaining in the governor's race could damage Republican chances statewide. Along the way, John challenges candidates who avoid tough interviews and explains why he refuses to play the role of a “fanboy” host for any politician. The conversation then pivots into gun rights, Phil Weiser, and Colorado's controversial large-capacity magazine restrictions, with John arguing the laws are ineffective and politically motivated. Later, an odd Florida influencer story launches a broader cultural conversation about “looks-maxing,” self-image, professionalism, grooming, and whether Americans have lost pride in personal presentation altogether. HOUR 3 Government Control, Crime, Taxes, Surveillance, And The Growing Fight Over Freedom. Hour 3 dives into some of the biggest debates shaping America right now—from gun rights and immigration enforcement to automated surveillance, rising taxes, and government overreach. John and Jerzee Joe open the hour by dismantling Colorado's high-capacity magazine laws, arguing the restrictions are nearly impossible to enforce when neighboring states and online retailers remain easily accessible. The conversation broadens into media coverage of violent crime, Chicago homicide statistics, immigration-related plea deal controversies in Virginia, and concerns about prosecutors allegedly prioritizing politics over equal justice. The hour intensifies further as Joe breaks down New York City's proposed “tax the rich” policies targeting billionaire Ken Griffin, sparking a larger conversation about businesses fleeing high-tax states and shrinking downtown economies. Later, listeners debate speed cameras, red-light cameras, toll-lane violations, and what many callers describe as government-run revenue traps disguised as public-safety programs. Guest Timestamps 1:13 — Jerzee Joe - https://JerzeeJoe.com

In this episode of The Dan Caplis Show, Dan is joined by radio icon Peter Boyles, a true legend in Colorado's media landscape. They dive into a wide-ranging conversation covering everything from the current state of media in Denver and Colorado to the upcoming gubernatorial election. Pete shares his insights on the potential candidates and the impact of the Left's involvement in the primary. They also reminisce about the old days of Colorado's music scene, sharing stories about legendary figures like Barry Fey and Ozzy Osbourne. It's a must-listen conversation that's equal parts informative and entertaining.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Rachel visits with Dick Wadhams, an architect of some of the most impressive political campaigns. Wadhams said there is a real opportunity for Colorado Republicans to capitalize on all time low approval ratings within the Democratic party but the Republicans are being their own worst enemy. Find Wadhams' column next to mine each Monday in Colorado Politics.This episode is brought to you by the generous support of Adam Rose at Iliff Custom Cabinetry. Find him at www.iliffcustomcabinetry.com or on The Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/icucab/. If you see Adam, please let him know you heard about him here.Check our our cows on the Anywhere Cam site at https://anywhere.cam/. Scroll down to the Hereford cows and tada!

Join the Conversation at 303-477-5600 or text to 307-200-8222 Monday - Friday from 3 pm - 6 pm MT. https://RushToReason.com HOUR 1 It's Friday, which means one thing—Andy Peth is back with his 5-Star Movie Reviews! This week, he dives into Normal, a quiet town hiding explosive secrets, and The Mummy, a chilling horror that takes possession to a whole new level. Which film delivers… and which one falls apart under scrutiny? Don't miss Andy's full breakdown using his signature 5-star system—covering quality, political themes, and moral impact. ⏱️ Movie Review Timestamps • 14:32 — Normal review begins • 27:05 — The Mummy review begins

Is Colorado losing its values? Heidi Ganahl joins Truth & Liberty to unpack major political and cultural shifts, key court battles over controversial policies impacting families, education, and business, and what's at stake in 2026. Discover how faith, freedom, and civic action can help turn the tide.Register for our 2026 Awards Banquet, where we're honoring David Barton and Tina Peters. Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.truthandliberty.net/subscribe  Donate here: https://www.truthandliberty.net/donate  

Dan is joined by Dick Wadhams, a seasoned expert on Colorado politics. They dive into two pressing topics: the recent federal court ruling on Colorado primaries and the escalating situation with Iran. Dan and Dick discuss the implications of the court's decision, which makes it easier for the GOP to opt out of the primary and select candidates through caucuses and assemblies. They also analyze President Trump's bold move to take out Iran's power grid and bridges, and explore the potential consequences of this action.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Show Notes & Links (by story) Fact-check: “engineered ticks” + meat allergy claim AP Fact Check PolitiFact fact check Idaho Fish & Game Commissioner Brody Harshbarger poaching charges Local News 8 / KIVI-TV report MeatEater coverage Colorado wolves: CPW budget request for $450,000 while translocation paused Colorado Politics report Denver Gazette version California public lands drilling proposals (~1M+ acres / mineral estate) Outside Online overview SFGATE reporting California AG Rob Bonta press release Center for Biological Diversity press release (comment volume/position) Colorado bison law: hunting illegal unless authorized by CPW Commission Colorado General Assembly bill summary (SB25-053) KKCO/CPW roster reporting Federal Register: information collection / experimental populations (10(j)) + public comment Federal Register notice Public inspection page with comment due date + dockets NPS expands qualified volunteer opportunities for invasive species management (nutria/hogs) NPS news release (Jean Lafitte + Cumberland Island) Outdoor Life context on “managed removal,” not open hunting California: ~30 deer alleged in multi-year poaching investigation; four arrests GV Wire report citing CDFW CSLEA write-up summarizing CDFW announcement MeatEater summary Wyoming: Cody urban deer poaching case reporting Cowboy State Daily Additional excerpted coverage Lead ammo/tackle access bill (House vote) Rep. Crank press release NSSF response Hunting Stories Links⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Want to be a guest?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a message! Really!This week on the Get More Smarter Podcast, the reports of the political insurgency in Colorado Politics appear to have been greatly exaggerated; we check in on how the 2026 primaries are shaping up on both sides of the aisle. Then, did new leadership bring a new dawn and a new day for the Colorado GOP? No, somehow the new Chair is even less competent than Dave Williams, which is a very high or very low bar! Then, we always said Gabe Evans would come to regret his lie that ICE agents are going after “gangsters, not grandmas,” and that day is officially here. Then, Lauren Boebert wants credit for doing the wrong thing, and President Trump may not actually know WHY Tina Peters is in jail in Colorado.But first, after a year of living in an Oligarchic Kleptocracy or a Kleptocratic Oligarchy, we check back in with Professor Tom Pepinsky of Cornell University to see if we've really slid into authoritarianism or if Trump 2.0 is too incompetent to pull it off.That's it for this episode! If you loved watching and/or listening to it as much as we loved recording it, you can thank us by subscribing to the pod wherever you listen, following us over on New Old Twitter AKA Bluesky, subscribing to our shiny new channel on YouTube, smashing that subscribe button on our Substack, and sharing this episode with your friends, your enemies, and your 8th favorite Member of Congress from Colorado! THANK YOU so much for listening, and we'll see you next time!

Hour 1 of Rush To Reason opens as John Rush and Andy Peth examine the political challenges for conservatives in deep-blue Colorado. What does it take to win statewide—and who is likely to do it? The discussion focuses on strategy, messaging, and coalition-building, highlighting why Mark Baisley may pose the strongest Republican Senate challenge. The tone intensifies as John and Andy analyze Greg Lopez's decision to leave the Republican Party and run as an unaffiliated candidate. Does breaking from the party expand the tent—or fracture it beyond repair? With blunt honesty, they examine loyalty, branding, media incentives, and the unintended consequences of splintered campaigns. Listeners are challenged to think beyond ideology and ask harder questions: Is the problem the conservative platform—or failure to sell it to the middle? In a state where margins count, this hour reveals party dynamics, discipline, and the high price of missteps. The discussion is fast and direct, setting the tone for the show. HOUR 2 Hour 2 of Rush To Reason shifts from domestic politics to the global stage as John and Andy are joined by Scott Angell, a leading advocate for USA Energy Workers (https://usaenergyworkers.com/). What does the “energy pivot” of 2025 really mean for prices, inflation, and jobs in 2026? And how do new offshore leases and domestic production reshape America's economic outlook? The conversation quickly expands to Venezuela, exploring how a leadership change could alter global power dynamics. Does Venezuela's shift weaken China, Russia, and Iran in the Western Hemisphere—and strengthen U.S. leverage with Canada ahead of critical trade negotiations? Callers add real-world insight into heavy crude, refineries, and why American expertise still dominates global energy. This hour explores media narratives, foreign policy doubts, and the rise of click-driven commentary. Are fear-driven takes blinding audiences to strategic wins? What happens when energy, security, and prosperity align? This brisk hour blends energy policy, geopolitics, and media scrutiny—prompting questions about who's winning in the evolving global order. HOUR 3 Hour 3 of Rush To Reason zeroes in on political strategy, electability, and momentum as John and Andy break down why Republicans often miss key opportunities. With corruption scandals rocking Minnesota, they ask the blunt question: why don't voters punish the entire party machine—and will Republicans actually capitalize on this opening in 2026? The conversation expands into a candid assessment of candidate marketability versus ideological purity. Why do business-minded leaders avoid politics—and how does that leave parties stuck with career politicians who don't know how to sell to the middle? From Minnesota to Colorado, John and Andy argue that winning requires understanding the political market. The hour closes with a sharp warning to grassroots activists and candidate supporters. Can a movement candidate win in a blue state without alienating persuadable voters? Are social media habits helping—or quietly sinking—otherwise viable campaigns? This hour challenges listeners to rethink what it really takes to win.

Hour 1 of https://rushtoreason.com launches with high-stakes energy as John Rush and Andy Peth dive straight into one of the biggest media battles in years: Netflix vs. Paramount in a multi-billion-dollar fight for Warner Bros. Discovery. Their guest, Jordan Goodman—America's Money Answer Man —breaks down the bidding war that could reshape Hollywood. Will this merger reduce creative freedom? Will HBO and Netflix under one roof change everything you watch? But the hour doesn't stop there. The conversation shifts to global tension as Trump positions massive U.S. military power near Venezuela. Is this the beginning of a regime collapse—or a strategic bluff meant to force Maduro out without firing a shot? And how will oil markets respond? Finally, Jordan unpacks new economic shocks: unexpected job losses, a deeply divided Federal Reserve, and a looming Supreme Court decision on Trump's tariffs that could upend the entire U.S. economic strategy. What happens if the Fed cuts too slowly? What if tariffs vanish overnight? And how will all of this hit your wallet? This hour asks the questions everyone else is afraid to raise. HOUR 2 Hour 2 opens with a deep dive into America's energy future as John Rush and Andy Peth welcome Larry Behrens of https://powerthefuture.com. Larry explains why the price of Thanksgiving dinner—and nearly everything you buy—traces back to one force: energy. But if oil prices are dropping, why aren't grocery bills falling just as fast? And how much do mysterious fuel blends, seasonal changes, and decisions made by blue states really cost you? The hour then pivots from energy to politics, exploding into a no-holds-barred critique of Colorado's fractured GOP. Can Republicans win anything—from Congress to the governor's race—when rogue factions sabotage electable candidates? Why are spoiler candidates being propped up in must-win districts? Finally, the conversation intensifies as callers challenge Trump's strategy in Venezuela. Is this saber-rattling, or a long-term geopolitical play designed to weaken OPEC, stabilize oil markets, and strengthen the American economy? And how does Venezuela's sour crude connect to U.S. inflation, housing affordability, and long-term prosperity? This hour pushes listeners to rethink energy, politics, and foreign strategy in ways few shows dare to explore.

Mayor Johnston logged on for his third Ask Me Anything on Reddit earlier this week, fielding questions from anonymous Denverites on everything from the recent city layoffs to his favorite cheeseburger. But did constituents think the conversation was worth it? Then, gubernatorial candidate Michael Bennet is wading into the controversy over a new Buc-ee's planned north of Colorado Springs, but why he's so interested in a mega gas station is a mystery — and producer Paul Karolyi has a theory. He's joined by host Bree Davies and returning fave, comedian Joshua Emerson, to dig into these stories plus the biggest wins and fails of the week.  Bree mentioned the community coming out to support Petals and Pages after vandalism, the mayor's new “outreach with enforcement” approach to public drug use, and the closing of Arapahoe House in 2018. Joshua talked about… Paul discussed Sardar Biglari and Cracker Barrel's Colorado connection, the Denver Rock Drill redevelopment getting off the ground, and our most recent interview with Mayor Johnston. He also mentioned Colorado Politics' reporting on John Malone and Ian Griffis. After we recorded this episode, Phil Weiser's campaign shared this statement on the Buc-ees: Protecting our public lands and open spaces means we must be committed to the fight against President Trump and Interior Secretary Burgum selling them off to the highest bidder. Leaders committed to fighting this administration are what will stop their illegal actions—not political statements about where a Buc-ee's should be located. My focus as attorney general and as the next Governor is on doing everything I can to push back against Trump's and Burgum's illegal actions to sell off our open spaces and undermine our protections of our land, air, and water---not on where a Buc-ee's should or should not be built. Our state is one of local control. Under our state constitution, we follow the principle that purely local matters are best left to local towns, cities, and their voters to decide.  If local voters do not agree with a local decision, our system allows them to voice their disapproval and hold their elected officials accountable at the ballot box. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or Instagram @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this August 29th episode: KUVO Jazz Colfax BID Multipass Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE, and she might answer in next week's segment. Wise Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Segment 1: In-Studio with Rep. Scott Bottoms Dr. Chaps welcomes Colorado State Representative Scott Bottoms to the studio for an exclusive interview. As the state undergoes sweeping changes in its economic, educational, and family structures, Rep. Bottoms shares his concerns and insights. Segment 2: Responding to Colorado's Leftward Shift From progressive policies in schools to economic overreach and family redefinitions, Rep. Bottoms addresses the growing challenges he sees across Colorado—and what must be done to course-correct. Segment 3: Why He's Running for Governor Scott Bottoms outlines his vision for the future of Colorado and explains why he's stepping into the race for governor to fight for traditional values and restore balance in state leadership. Get free alerts at http://PrayInJesusName.org © 2025, Chaplain Gordon James Klingenschmitt, PhD. Airs on NRB TV, Direct TV Ch.378, Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, GoogleTV, Smart TV, iTunes and www.PrayInJesusName.org

Today, we're revisiting our SunFest keynote conversation with political commentator Mark McKinnon. Mark spoke with The Sun's Jesse Paul and Dana Coffield at the event in mid May. Take our survey: https://coloradosun.typeform.com/2025ReaderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Richard Harris and parental rights advocate Erin Lee as they expose the spiritual and political battle over gender ideology in Colorado. From shocking firsthand experiences to ongoing legal challenges, this episode of the Truth & Liberty show calls believers to stand for truth, protect children, and engage in faith-based activism at every level.Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.truthandliberty.net/subscribe  Get "Faith for America" here: https://store.awmi.net/purchase/tal102Donate here: https://www.truthandliberty.net/donate  

Chuck And Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden Guest hosts, Darcy Schoening, Hope Scheppelman and Kristy Davis bring guests Rebecca Keltie and Peg on Colorado Politics

A little over a month into the 2025 state legislative session, and things are already heating up — Will this finally be the year lawmakers can coax Denver developers to build condos? Will a new gun control bill make it across the governor's desk? Is the labor movement on the precipice of a long-awaited victory or yet another setback? And what about the state senator who recently resigned in part over allegations that she put her aides to work bartending at political fundraisers? Chief legislative reporter Marianne Goodland of Colorado Politics joins host Bree Davies to take us inside the biggest battles going down under the gold dome. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We're putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It's family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this February 20th episode: University of Colorado Denver Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 5280 Magazine Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Colorado's legislative session is entering its second month, which means bills are starting to advance through the state Capitol. On today's podcast, we're revisiting our conversation last month with Gov. Jared Polis previewing Colorado's 2025 lawmaking term. Read our full story: https://coloradosun.com/2025/01/20/jared-polis-guns-labor-peace-act-housing/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome aboard Kyber Squadron! This week, Andrés sits down with Rep. Titone and Minority Leader Pugliese to hear reactions from both parties to Gov. Polis' State of the State address. Come for the political conversation, stay for insight from two powerful women in State Politics: Friend of the Pod Rep. Titone and Minority Leader Pugliese!  Follow us: Threads: @Sithty_Minutes  Instagram: @PaulaBear92 @RBW3000 @General_Leia_The_Pup @aaa__photog Twitch: @Sithty_Minutes BlueSky: @sithtyminutes.bsky.social Discord: Sithty Minutes Show Notes: Right to Repair Freedom to Marry Abortion Access Rep. Titone Tax Incentive for Film Festivals Marshall Fire Changing Hearts and Minds Minority Leader Pugliese Growing the GOP Higher Ed Underfunded Wolves Killing Cattle Construction Defect Law TABOR  

The new year is not yet a week old, and there are already tons of local stories to catch up on. Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to speculate about Mayor Mike Johnston's new hire to help shape the future of downtown, Bill Mosher, including his connections with the Colorado Convention Center scandal of 2018. They also preview the 2026 governor's race now that AG Phil Weiser has thrown the first official hat into the ring, discuss the recent attack on a TV journalist in Grand Junction, and look back on former President Jimmy Carter's fascinating legacy in Denver. And of course, our first round of wins and fails of 2025. Paul mentioned this piece by Colorado Politics reporter Marianne Goodland and the fate of Merf's hot sauces.  What do you think local journalists' role in covering Trump 2.0? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dick Wadhams joins Dan to discuss his latest op-ed for Colorado Politics, 'Polis, Griswold reveal rot of Colorado's Democrat domination.'Polis, Griswold reveal rot of Colorado's Democrat domination | WADHAMS | Opinion | coloradopolitics.comDanielle Jurinsky, Aurora City Council joins Dan to discuss the latest violence in Aurora attributed to illegal alien Venezuelan gang members from Tren de Aragua.

In the past few weeks, we've heard concerns over Governor Polis's property tax deal being done “behind closed doors.” We watched as the GOP barred the press from covering controversial leadership votes. And now some Democratic lawmakers who were accused of shutting out reporters are simultaneously being honored as “defenders of the free press.” What is going on with Colorado politicians and transparency — or a lack thereof? Colorado Politics reporters Marianne Goodland and Ernest Luning join host Bree Davies to talk about what local elected officials are keeping from the press and why voters should care.  For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver What do you think about transparency in our politics? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this September 9th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Levitt Pavilion Life Surge Arvada Center YMCA of Denver - Sign up for a free 7 day trial membership Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a Text Message.This week on the Get More Smarter Podcast, WE DID IT Y'ALL! WE MADE IT ALL THE WAY TO EPISODE 200! The world is a mess and politics has sure gotten weird over the last two weeks but we made 200 episodes of a Colorado Politics podcast and you're still listening! Yes you! On this episode we'll look back at how far we've come, how far we still have to go, and interview one of our favorite guests, Colorado Governor Jared Polis.

The Chuck & Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden With Guests, Tim Leonard, A Jeffco grassroots activist Another Supreme Court win for Trump and massive loss for corrupt lawfare attacks against him. The US Supreme Court dealt a blow against attempts to prosecute over fake allegations he tried to subvert the government. The Court ruled Presidents have immunity while performing official duties. Plus Jeffco grassroots activist Tim Leonard on traitor Todd Watkins coup attempt against CO GOP Chair Dave Williams.

Biden bombs, Trump pounces in first debate of 2024 | Supreme Court rejects Missouri lawsuit alleging feds bullied social media platforms | The unemployment rate in Kansas has been under 3% for 30 months | Sean Diller mourns the senseless loss of another progressive Colorado Democrat, as incumbent State Representative Elisabeth Epps was defeated in a primary this week | IL Gov JB Pritzker announces new Department of Early ChildhoodFrom Eugene Daniels at Politoco: Dems freak out over Biden's debate performancehttps://www.politico.com/news/2024/06/27/biden-debate-opening-concerns-00165595One prominent operative texted, “Time for an open convention.”President Joe Biden stands on stage during a commercial break in a presidential debate at CNN Studios in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 27, 2024. | Francis Chung/POLITICOBy EUGENE DANIELS06/27/2024 10:15 PM EDTUpdated: 06/27/2024 10:27 PM EDTPresident Joe Biden opened the debate with a raspy voice and disjointed, rambling answers, reigniting Democratic concerns about his age and ability to take on former President Donald Trump.Many of the president's answers were hard to follow. At one point, seemingly losing his train of thought, Biden said “we finally beat Medicare,” misspeaking about his own policy on earned benefits.In text messages with POLITICO, Democrats expressed confusion and concern as they watched the first minutes of the event. One former Biden White House and campaign aide called it “terrible,” adding that they have had to ask themselves over and over “What did he just say? This is crazy.”Another veteran Democratic operative texted, “Biden seems to have needed a few minutes to warm up. I wonder if the lack of an audience was the right decision. And poor guy needs a tea. Maybe a whiskey.”An attorney and Democratic activist from New Hampshire said, “Biden is toast — calling it now.”Biden's rambling answers provided Trump multiple opportunities to jump in with retorts. At one point, after an answer ostensibly on immigration, Trump said, “I don't know what he said at the end there. I don't think he knows what he said.”The president's performance was widely panned online and will likely reinforce the impression that he's lost a step. The 81-year-old president's age has long been a liability, with poll after poll showing even many Democrats concerned about his age.Biden aides and allies had hoped the on-stage split screen between the two men would help to focus voters' attention on the race. But during the debate, many Democrats have begun to doubt that strategy would actually work out in Biden's favor.A person familiar with Biden's health claimed that his performance is due to a cold. But the president's team hadn't mentioned that to reporters until Biden began to answer questions in the debate.One prominent operative texted, “Time for an open convention.”Better call the waaaambulance! Supreme Court rejects Missouri AG's petition trying to connect the government, to social media, to his own challenges and inadequacies.https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/26/scotus-rejects-suit-alleging-federal-government-bullied-social-media-into-censoring-content/SCOTUS rejects Missouri lawsuit alleging feds bullied social media into censoring contentThe lawsuit was filed in 2022 by Missouri and Louisiana, along with seven people who were either banned or throttled by social media companiesBY: JASON HANCOCK - JUNE 26, 2024 9:15 AMThe U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected arguments by Missouri and Louisiana that the federal government violated the First Amendment in its efforts to combat false, misleading and dangerous information online.In a 6-3 decision written by Justice Amy Coney Barrett, the court held that neither the states nor seven individuals who were co-plaintiffs in the case were able to demonstrate any harm or substantial risk that they will suffer an injury in the future.Therefore, they do not have legal standing to bring a case against the federal government.Plaintiffs failed to prove that social media platforms acted due to government coercion, Barrett wrote, rather than their own judgment and policies. In fact, she wrote, social media platforms “began to suppress the plaintiffs' COVID–19 content before the defendants' challenged communications started.”Plaintiffs cannot “manufacture standing,” Barrett wrote, “merely by inflicting harm on themselves based on their fears of hypothetical future harm that is not certainly impending.”The ruling overturns a lower court decision that concluded officials under Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump unlawfully coerced social media companies to remove deceptive or inaccurate content out of fears it would fuel vaccine hesitancy or upend elections.Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey called the federal government's actions “the biggest violation of the First Amendment in our nation's history.”But those arguments were greeted with skepticism by the court in March, with justices from across the ideological spectrum punching holes in the lawsuit and raising concerns about the consequences for public safety and national security.In an emailed statement, Bailey made no mention of the court's decision to dismiss the case, instead declaring that his office will continue to pursue evidence of social media censorship by the federal government.“Missouri is not done,” Bailey said. “We are going back to the district court to obtain more discovery in order to root out Joe Biden's vast censorship enterprise once and for all.”The lawsuit was filed in 2022 by Missouri and Louisiana, along with seven people who either were banned from a platform or whose posts were not prominently featured on social media sites such as Facebook, YouTube and X, then known as Twitter.Among the co-plaintiffs is Jim Hoft, founder of the St. Louis-based right-wing conspiracy website Gateway Pundit. Hoft has built a career on promulgating false conspiracies on a wide range of topics, from the 2018 Parkland school shooting to former President Barack Obama's birth certificate.His company recently filed for bankruptcy as it faces defamation lawsuits in Missouri and Colorado filed by people who say they faced threats after being vilified by Gateway Pundit in false stories.Hoft claims claims that Twitter, in December 2020, censored content about the Hunter Biden laptop story at the urging of the federal government. But Barrett wrote that Twitter acted according to its own rules against posting or sharing “privately produced/distributed intimate media of someone without their express consent.”There is no evidence, Barrett wrote, that Twitter adopted its policy in response to pressure from the federal government.3. Kansas unemployment has been under 3% for almost 3 years runninghttps://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-unemployment-rate-climbs-for-second-consecutive-month-to-2-9-in-may/Kansas unemployment rate 2.9%BY: TIM CARPENTER - JUNE 24, 2024 3:30 PMTOPEKA — The unemployment rate in Kansas was 2.9% in May, for an unprecedented 30 consecutive months with unemployment under 3%. The state's unemployment rate has remained under 3% since October 2021, after reaching double-digits in the twilight of Trump's presidency in 2020.In the past 12 months, Kansas' total nonfarm employment climbed by 24,000 jobs. The Department of Labor says that was due to a surge of 18,700 private sector positions and the addition of 5,300 government jobs.The average nominal hourly earnings in Kansas for private sector workers has increased 3.4% over the past 12 months to $30.09.4.  Go along to get along type wins Colorado blue seat primaryhttps://coloradonewsline.com/2024/06/25/camacho-leads-epps-in-closely-watched-colorado-statehouse-race/Camacho beats Epps in closely watched Colorado statehouse raceBY: SARA WILSON - JUNE 25, 2024 10:07 PM   Challenger Sean Camacho defeated Rep. Elisabeth Epps in the Democratic primary for state House District 6, according to early results from the Colorado secretary of state.Camacho was ahead with 63% of the vote, according to the results as of 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, and Associated Press-subscribed outlets reported that the AP called the race for Camacho.Camacho was the establishment-backed candidate. Epps was the more progressive, yet controversial, first-term lawmaker. The race was seen as a bellwether among many state Capitol observers.Epps, who heads the Colorado Freedom Fund, won her first term in office in 2022 after another tough primary challenge from Katie March. During her two years in office, she championed progressive legislation including a ban on most semi-automatic firearms and a bill to allow overdose authorization centers. She also publicly criticized House leadership over their handling of floor speech and open meetings practices. She was reprimanded by House leadership after she joined pro-Palestinian protestors in the chamber gallery during a special session last fall.Epps was backed by labor and grassroots groups including the AFL-CIO and SEIU Local 105.Camacho had endorsements from the Democratic establishment of Colorado, including Gov. Jared Polis, Attorney General Phil Weiser, House Speaker Julie McCluskie and Senate President Steve Fenberg.Camacho vastly outraised and outspent Epps, according to campaign finance records. He also benefited from outside spending. Various committees spent over $120,000 for communications opposing Epps and over $250,000 supporting him. That included a series of negative mailers targeting Epps.5. IL Gov JB Pritzker signs bill creating new Depaartment of Early Childhoodhttps://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/pritzker-signs-bill-creating-new-department-of-early-childhoodPritzker signs bill creating new Department of Early ChildhoodGov. JB Pritzker holds up Senate Bill 1 after signing it into law, flanked by Reps. Mary Beth Canty, D-Arlington Heights, and Will Davis, D-Homewood (left) and lead Senate sponsor Sen. Kimberly Lightford, D-Maywood (right). Pritzker said the agency is expected to be up and running in 2026. (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)Tuesday, June 25, 2024New agency to bring multiple programs under one roofBy PETER HANCOCKCapitol News Illinoisphancock@capitolnewsillinois.comSPRINGFIELD – Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation Tuesday creating a new cabinet-level state agency dedicated to early childhood education and development.The new Department of Early Childhood, which will become operational in July 2026, will take over programs currently housed across three state agencies, including funding for preschool programs, child care centers and the licensing of day care centers.Speaking at a bill signing ceremony at a preschool in Chicago, Pritzker said the streamlined agency  should make it easier for new parents to access critical services for their children.“It's hard enough juggling all the responsibilities that fall on the shoulders of parents,” he said. “And on top of that, they shouldn't have to navigate a complex bureaucracy to get the care that they and their children deserve.”  A chalkboard welcome sign for Gov. JB Pritzker inside Eyes On The Future Child Development Center in Chicago's far north side neighborhood of Rogers Park. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 1 there, which will create the framework for a new state agency geared towards early childhood development. (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)  Pritzker first unveiled his plan for a consolidated agency last fall, just as lawmakers were beginning their annual fall veto session, when he issued an executive order establishing an Office of Early Childhood within the governor's office. Read more: Pritzker proposes creation of new standalone early childhood agencyThat order directed the Department of Human Services, the Department of Children and Family Services, and the Illinois State Board of Education to begin working on a transition plan to move the administration of their early childhood programs into a new agency.The formal bid to establish the new agency was part of Pritzker's budget proposal to the General Assembly in February, along with a second year of increased funding for those programs under Pritzker's Smart Start initiative.Under the plan, the new agency will take over the Early Childhood Block Grant program from the State Board of Education, which funds the Preschool for All and Prevention Initiative programs; the Child Care Assistance Program, Home Visiting programs, and Early Intervention Services currently housed in the Department of Human Services; and licensing of day care facilities, which is currently managed by the Department of Children and Family Services.The legislation authorizing the new agency, Senate Bill 1, passed unanimously in the Senate in April, and last month passed with bipartisan support in the House, 93-18.“The foundation of a child's success and well-being is built starting the moment they are born,” Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford, D-Maywood, the lead Senate sponsor of the bill, said in a statement. “As a state, it is our duty to provide the necessary support and resources to build such stability. The creation of this unique agency will break ground on our transition to a whole, trauma-informed approach to meeting children's diverse needs.”  Gov. JB Pritzker poses for photos with early childhood advocates following a signing event for Senate Bill 1, which creates the Department of Early Childhood. Pritzker said the agency will immediately “make life simpler, better, and fairer for tens of thousands of Illinois families.” (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)Much of the debate over the bill in the legislature focused on the cost of launching a new state agency. Lawmakers appropriated $14 million in the upcoming fiscal year for initial startup costs, which include such things as hiring executive staff and opening new office space.But administration officials were reluctant to provide estimates of how much the new agency would cost annually once it's fully operational, and whether those administrative costs would outweigh what the state is spending currently.Responding to questions from reporters Tuesday, Pritzker again declined to offer specific cost estimates but suggested consolidating the programs into a single agency could result in efficiencies and cost savings. But he did chide “people who want to complain” about how new state agencies will “cost...taxpayers.”  “I really don't think it will,” Pritzker said. “I think there's real efficiency and taking programs that are desperately located in different departments and bringing them all together.”Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of newspapers, radio and TV stations statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association. @TheHeartlandPOD on Twitter and ThreadsCo-HostsAdam Sommer @Adam_Sommer85 (Twitter) @adam_sommer85 (Threads)Rachel Parker @msraitchetp (Threads) Sean Diller (no social)The Heartland Collective - Sign Up Today!JOIN PATREON FOR MORE - AND JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK!“Change The Conversation”Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Biden bombs, Trump pounces in first debate of 2024 | Supreme Court rejects Missouri lawsuit alleging feds bullied social media platforms | The unemployment rate in Kansas has been under 3% for 30 months | Sean Diller mourns the senseless loss of another progressive Colorado Democrat, as incumbent State Representative Elisabeth Epps was defeated in a primary this week | IL Gov JB Pritzker announces new Department of Early ChildhoodFrom Eugene Daniels at Politoco: Dems freak out over Biden's debate performancehttps://www.politico.com/news/2024/06/27/biden-debate-opening-concerns-00165595One prominent operative texted, “Time for an open convention.”President Joe Biden stands on stage during a commercial break in a presidential debate at CNN Studios in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 27, 2024. | Francis Chung/POLITICOBy EUGENE DANIELS06/27/2024 10:15 PM EDTUpdated: 06/27/2024 10:27 PM EDTPresident Joe Biden opened the debate with a raspy voice and disjointed, rambling answers, reigniting Democratic concerns about his age and ability to take on former President Donald Trump.Many of the president's answers were hard to follow. At one point, seemingly losing his train of thought, Biden said “we finally beat Medicare,” misspeaking about his own policy on earned benefits.In text messages with POLITICO, Democrats expressed confusion and concern as they watched the first minutes of the event. One former Biden White House and campaign aide called it “terrible,” adding that they have had to ask themselves over and over “What did he just say? This is crazy.”Another veteran Democratic operative texted, “Biden seems to have needed a few minutes to warm up. I wonder if the lack of an audience was the right decision. And poor guy needs a tea. Maybe a whiskey.”An attorney and Democratic activist from New Hampshire said, “Biden is toast — calling it now.”Biden's rambling answers provided Trump multiple opportunities to jump in with retorts. At one point, after an answer ostensibly on immigration, Trump said, “I don't know what he said at the end there. I don't think he knows what he said.”The president's performance was widely panned online and will likely reinforce the impression that he's lost a step. The 81-year-old president's age has long been a liability, with poll after poll showing even many Democrats concerned about his age.Biden aides and allies had hoped the on-stage split screen between the two men would help to focus voters' attention on the race. But during the debate, many Democrats have begun to doubt that strategy would actually work out in Biden's favor.A person familiar with Biden's health claimed that his performance is due to a cold. But the president's team hadn't mentioned that to reporters until Biden began to answer questions in the debate.One prominent operative texted, “Time for an open convention.”Better call the waaaambulance! Supreme Court rejects Missouri AG's petition trying to connect the government, to social media, to his own challenges and inadequacies.https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/26/scotus-rejects-suit-alleging-federal-government-bullied-social-media-into-censoring-content/SCOTUS rejects Missouri lawsuit alleging feds bullied social media into censoring contentThe lawsuit was filed in 2022 by Missouri and Louisiana, along with seven people who were either banned or throttled by social media companiesBY: JASON HANCOCK - JUNE 26, 2024 9:15 AMThe U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected arguments by Missouri and Louisiana that the federal government violated the First Amendment in its efforts to combat false, misleading and dangerous information online.In a 6-3 decision written by Justice Amy Coney Barrett, the court held that neither the states nor seven individuals who were co-plaintiffs in the case were able to demonstrate any harm or substantial risk that they will suffer an injury in the future.Therefore, they do not have legal standing to bring a case against the federal government.Plaintiffs failed to prove that social media platforms acted due to government coercion, Barrett wrote, rather than their own judgment and policies. In fact, she wrote, social media platforms “began to suppress the plaintiffs' COVID–19 content before the defendants' challenged communications started.”Plaintiffs cannot “manufacture standing,” Barrett wrote, “merely by inflicting harm on themselves based on their fears of hypothetical future harm that is not certainly impending.”The ruling overturns a lower court decision that concluded officials under Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump unlawfully coerced social media companies to remove deceptive or inaccurate content out of fears it would fuel vaccine hesitancy or upend elections.Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey called the federal government's actions “the biggest violation of the First Amendment in our nation's history.”But those arguments were greeted with skepticism by the court in March, with justices from across the ideological spectrum punching holes in the lawsuit and raising concerns about the consequences for public safety and national security.In an emailed statement, Bailey made no mention of the court's decision to dismiss the case, instead declaring that his office will continue to pursue evidence of social media censorship by the federal government.“Missouri is not done,” Bailey said. “We are going back to the district court to obtain more discovery in order to root out Joe Biden's vast censorship enterprise once and for all.”The lawsuit was filed in 2022 by Missouri and Louisiana, along with seven people who either were banned from a platform or whose posts were not prominently featured on social media sites such as Facebook, YouTube and X, then known as Twitter.Among the co-plaintiffs is Jim Hoft, founder of the St. Louis-based right-wing conspiracy website Gateway Pundit. Hoft has built a career on promulgating false conspiracies on a wide range of topics, from the 2018 Parkland school shooting to former President Barack Obama's birth certificate.His company recently filed for bankruptcy as it faces defamation lawsuits in Missouri and Colorado filed by people who say they faced threats after being vilified by Gateway Pundit in false stories.Hoft claims claims that Twitter, in December 2020, censored content about the Hunter Biden laptop story at the urging of the federal government. But Barrett wrote that Twitter acted according to its own rules against posting or sharing “privately produced/distributed intimate media of someone without their express consent.”There is no evidence, Barrett wrote, that Twitter adopted its policy in response to pressure from the federal government.3. Kansas unemployment has been under 3% for almost 3 years runninghttps://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-unemployment-rate-climbs-for-second-consecutive-month-to-2-9-in-may/Kansas unemployment rate 2.9%BY: TIM CARPENTER - JUNE 24, 2024 3:30 PMTOPEKA — The unemployment rate in Kansas was 2.9% in May, for an unprecedented 30 consecutive months with unemployment under 3%. The state's unemployment rate has remained under 3% since October 2021, after reaching double-digits in the twilight of Trump's presidency in 2020.In the past 12 months, Kansas' total nonfarm employment climbed by 24,000 jobs. The Department of Labor says that was due to a surge of 18,700 private sector positions and the addition of 5,300 government jobs.The average nominal hourly earnings in Kansas for private sector workers has increased 3.4% over the past 12 months to $30.09.4.  Go along to get along type wins Colorado blue seat primaryhttps://coloradonewsline.com/2024/06/25/camacho-leads-epps-in-closely-watched-colorado-statehouse-race/Camacho beats Epps in closely watched Colorado statehouse raceBY: SARA WILSON - JUNE 25, 2024 10:07 PM   Challenger Sean Camacho defeated Rep. Elisabeth Epps in the Democratic primary for state House District 6, according to early results from the Colorado secretary of state.Camacho was ahead with 63% of the vote, according to the results as of 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, and Associated Press-subscribed outlets reported that the AP called the race for Camacho.Camacho was the establishment-backed candidate. Epps was the more progressive, yet controversial, first-term lawmaker. The race was seen as a bellwether among many state Capitol observers.Epps, who heads the Colorado Freedom Fund, won her first term in office in 2022 after another tough primary challenge from Katie March. During her two years in office, she championed progressive legislation including a ban on most semi-automatic firearms and a bill to allow overdose authorization centers. She also publicly criticized House leadership over their handling of floor speech and open meetings practices. She was reprimanded by House leadership after she joined pro-Palestinian protestors in the chamber gallery during a special session last fall.Epps was backed by labor and grassroots groups including the AFL-CIO and SEIU Local 105.Camacho had endorsements from the Democratic establishment of Colorado, including Gov. Jared Polis, Attorney General Phil Weiser, House Speaker Julie McCluskie and Senate President Steve Fenberg.Camacho vastly outraised and outspent Epps, according to campaign finance records. He also benefited from outside spending. Various committees spent over $120,000 for communications opposing Epps and over $250,000 supporting him. That included a series of negative mailers targeting Epps.5. IL Gov JB Pritzker signs bill creating new Depaartment of Early Childhoodhttps://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/pritzker-signs-bill-creating-new-department-of-early-childhoodPritzker signs bill creating new Department of Early ChildhoodGov. JB Pritzker holds up Senate Bill 1 after signing it into law, flanked by Reps. Mary Beth Canty, D-Arlington Heights, and Will Davis, D-Homewood (left) and lead Senate sponsor Sen. Kimberly Lightford, D-Maywood (right). Pritzker said the agency is expected to be up and running in 2026. (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)Tuesday, June 25, 2024New agency to bring multiple programs under one roofBy PETER HANCOCKCapitol News Illinoisphancock@capitolnewsillinois.comSPRINGFIELD – Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation Tuesday creating a new cabinet-level state agency dedicated to early childhood education and development.The new Department of Early Childhood, which will become operational in July 2026, will take over programs currently housed across three state agencies, including funding for preschool programs, child care centers and the licensing of day care centers.Speaking at a bill signing ceremony at a preschool in Chicago, Pritzker said the streamlined agency  should make it easier for new parents to access critical services for their children.“It's hard enough juggling all the responsibilities that fall on the shoulders of parents,” he said. “And on top of that, they shouldn't have to navigate a complex bureaucracy to get the care that they and their children deserve.”  A chalkboard welcome sign for Gov. JB Pritzker inside Eyes On The Future Child Development Center in Chicago's far north side neighborhood of Rogers Park. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 1 there, which will create the framework for a new state agency geared towards early childhood development. (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)  Pritzker first unveiled his plan for a consolidated agency last fall, just as lawmakers were beginning their annual fall veto session, when he issued an executive order establishing an Office of Early Childhood within the governor's office. Read more: Pritzker proposes creation of new standalone early childhood agencyThat order directed the Department of Human Services, the Department of Children and Family Services, and the Illinois State Board of Education to begin working on a transition plan to move the administration of their early childhood programs into a new agency.The formal bid to establish the new agency was part of Pritzker's budget proposal to the General Assembly in February, along with a second year of increased funding for those programs under Pritzker's Smart Start initiative.Under the plan, the new agency will take over the Early Childhood Block Grant program from the State Board of Education, which funds the Preschool for All and Prevention Initiative programs; the Child Care Assistance Program, Home Visiting programs, and Early Intervention Services currently housed in the Department of Human Services; and licensing of day care facilities, which is currently managed by the Department of Children and Family Services.The legislation authorizing the new agency, Senate Bill 1, passed unanimously in the Senate in April, and last month passed with bipartisan support in the House, 93-18.“The foundation of a child's success and well-being is built starting the moment they are born,” Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford, D-Maywood, the lead Senate sponsor of the bill, said in a statement. “As a state, it is our duty to provide the necessary support and resources to build such stability. The creation of this unique agency will break ground on our transition to a whole, trauma-informed approach to meeting children's diverse needs.”  Gov. JB Pritzker poses for photos with early childhood advocates following a signing event for Senate Bill 1, which creates the Department of Early Childhood. Pritzker said the agency will immediately “make life simpler, better, and fairer for tens of thousands of Illinois families.” (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)Much of the debate over the bill in the legislature focused on the cost of launching a new state agency. Lawmakers appropriated $14 million in the upcoming fiscal year for initial startup costs, which include such things as hiring executive staff and opening new office space.But administration officials were reluctant to provide estimates of how much the new agency would cost annually once it's fully operational, and whether those administrative costs would outweigh what the state is spending currently.Responding to questions from reporters Tuesday, Pritzker again declined to offer specific cost estimates but suggested consolidating the programs into a single agency could result in efficiencies and cost savings. But he did chide “people who want to complain” about how new state agencies will “cost...taxpayers.”  “I really don't think it will,” Pritzker said. “I think there's real efficiency and taking programs that are desperately located in different departments and bringing them all together.”Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of newspapers, radio and TV stations statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association. @TheHeartlandPOD on Twitter and ThreadsCo-HostsAdam Sommer @Adam_Sommer85 (Twitter) @adam_sommer85 (Threads)Rachel Parker @msraitchetp (Threads) Sean Diller (no social)The Heartland Collective - Sign Up Today!JOIN PATREON FOR MORE - AND JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK!“Change The Conversation”Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium http://www.americanaquarium.com/

The Chuck & Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden With Guests, Colorado Congressman from CD4, Greg Lopez and Former Sheriff and Investigative Expert, Mark Pfoff Colorado's new Congressman from CD4 Greg Lopez joins the show. He won the special election and will keep the seat until after the general election in November. Rep. Lauren Boebert beat out RINO candidates to win the GOP nomination for the CD4 general election. But it was a disappointing day otherwise for Colorado grassroots conservatives. We break it down.

The Chuck & Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden Grassroots conservatives fight for the soul of the Colorado Republican Party with everything on the line in tomorrow's primary. We break it down. Plus fake news CNNs anti-Trump bias is front and center heading into the debate.

Welcome back Kyber Squadron! This week, Andrés talks with Rep. David Ortiz about Disability Justice, Historical Buildings, and the most dangerous Star Wars Villians! Come for the Jet Ski acronym, stay for protest history! Follow us: Threads: @Sithty_Minutes  Instagram: @PaulaBear92 @RBW3000 @General_Leia_The_Pup @aaa__photog  Rep. Ortiz: Davidortizcolorado.com @DavidDOrtizCO Show Notes: Schindler's List HB24-1360 Colorado Disability Opportunity Office Longest Occupation of Federal Offices New Office, New Opportunities Fort William Henry HB24-1454 Digital Noncompliance Grace Period HB21-1110 Colorado Laws for Persons with Disabilities Justice Department Weighs in on Web Access Turo Empire Strikes Back Rogue One TABOR Obi-Wan Kenobi Ahsoka Tano

The Chuck & Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden Dave Derangement Syndrome continues as RINOs and the left continue attacks on CO GOP Chair Dave Williams. Plus Biden freezes again, this time Obama bails him out.

The Chuck & Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden With Guests, Rep. Brandi Bradley, Jeffco Republican Tim Leonard, American First Conservative Darcy Schoening and, CD8 Candidate Dr. Janak Joshi Jefferson County Republicans slap down efforts by RINO Chair to oust State Party Chairman Dave Williams. Grassroots Representative Brandi Bradley, Jeffco Republican Tim Leonard and America First conservative Darcy Schoening weigh in. Plus CD8 candidate Dr. Janak Joshi.

The Chuck & Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden With Guest-Host, Mark Pfoff and John San Augustin Guest hosts, Mark Pfoff and John San Augustin on Scottie Scheffler Arrest, Up&Coming Debate and Colorado Court Cases

Welcome back Kyber Squadron! This week, we catch up with friend of the pod, Rep. Titone, and her work on the Joint Technology Committee, expanding Right-To-Repair law, and bringing a grassroots idea to policy arena and winning! Come for the Policy, stay for the 2001 references!  Follow us: Rep. Brianna Titone Threads: @Sithty_Minutes @BriannaForColorado Instagram: @PaulaBear92 @RBW3000 @General_Leia_The_Pup @aaa__photog  Show Notes SB24-205 AI Protections 2001: A Space Odyssey Fear the Walking Dead Fallout Widow Jane Mine HB24-1121 Right-To-Repair Meanwhile, in Oregon Video Game Consoles and RTR Repairability Index Resolution Menstrual Products in Schools Grant Program for Menstrual Products Justice Necessary  

The Chuck & Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden With Guests, Trent Leisy and Darcy Schoening Denver Post does lame attempt at a hit job on Moms for Liberty, noting the Southern Poverty Law Center calls the grassroots parents' rights organization a hate group. The Southern Poverty Law Center was discredited years ago and revealed to be corrupt and fraudulent and a hate mongering far left group. Darcy Schoening joins us to fight back. Plus House District 65 GOP candidate Trent Leisy.

The Chuck & Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden With Guest, Former Congressman Tom Tancredo Ballots are mailed out today for the make or break Colorado primary. Former Congressman Tom Tancredo joins us with his endorsements and analysis.

Primary ballots hit mailboxes this week! A record number of incumbents are having to defend their seats, and fundraising numbers are through the roof. Some interesting patterns are emerging too, as both the Democrats and Republicans are seeing more division within their own parties. Colorado Politics statehouse reporter Marianne Goodland joins host Bree Davies to talk about the hottest primary battles to watch, where the money is coming and going, and why so many politicians are eager to oust colleagues from their own parties.  Bree mentioned our previous interview with House District 4 Representative Tim Hernández. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Which primaries are you watching? We want to know what you think! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Central City Opera Arvada Center Summer Concert Series Museum of Outdoor Arts  Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chuck & Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden With Guest, Darcy Schoening Progressive Democrats passed laws this session aimed at indoctrinating our kids with a radical transgender agenda. The Colorado Republican Party has a strategy for fighting back against these unconstitutional laws an Darcy Schoening explains. Plus Trump crushes it in the Bronx.

The Heartland POD for Friday, May 10, 2024On this FLYOVER Friday episode of The Heartland PODSOURCES: Missouri Independent, Colorado Newsline, The Guardian, Iowa Capitol Dispatch, The Heartland CollectiveGov. Parson of Missouri speaks out on politicians' defamation postshttps://x.com/EmilyManleyTV/status/1788606202600997340https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/02/missouri-ag-will-defend-senators-sued-for-defamation-over-posts-about-chiefs-parade-shooting/Colorado secures marriage equality in preemptive movehttps://coloradonewsline.com/2024/05/08/repeal-same-sex-marriage-ban-colorado/Scientists in Iowa turn garbage into fuel, and no we don't mean Marjory Taylor Green's Twitter feedhttps://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/05/08/ames-national-laboratory-team-transforms-plastic-waste-into-fuel/Missouri governor signs ceremonial bill in anticipation of court challenges on funding for Planned Parenthoodhttps://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-governor-bill-medicaid-planned-parenthood/Former clerk in Michigan charged for accessing voter information in fraud casehttps://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/may/09/michigan-clerk-charged?CMP=Share_iOSApp_OtherMinnesota governor signs a bill named for Taylor Swift, and it's already triple platinum and number one on the chartshttps://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/may/08/taylor-swift-bill-minnesota @TheHeartlandPOD on Twitter and ThreadsCo-HostsAdam Sommer @Adam_Sommer85 (Twitter) @adam_sommer85 (Threads)Rachel Parker @msraitchetp (Threads) Sean Diller (no social)The Heartland Collective - Sign Up Today!JOIN PATREON FOR MORE - AND JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK!“Change The Conversation”Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium http://www.americanaquarium.com/

The Heartland POD for Friday, May 10, 2024On this FLYOVER Friday episode of The Heartland PODSOURCES: Missouri Independent, Colorado Newsline, The Guardian, Iowa Capitol Dispatch, The Heartland CollectiveGov. Parson of Missouri speaks out on politicians' defamation postshttps://x.com/EmilyManleyTV/status/1788606202600997340https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/02/missouri-ag-will-defend-senators-sued-for-defamation-over-posts-about-chiefs-parade-shooting/Colorado secures marriage equality in preemptive movehttps://coloradonewsline.com/2024/05/08/repeal-same-sex-marriage-ban-colorado/Scientists in Iowa turn garbage into fuel, and no we don't mean Marjory Taylor Green's Twitter feedhttps://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/05/08/ames-national-laboratory-team-transforms-plastic-waste-into-fuel/Missouri governor signs ceremonial bill in anticipation of court challenges on funding for Planned Parenthoodhttps://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-governor-bill-medicaid-planned-parenthood/Former clerk in Michigan charged for accessing voter information in fraud casehttps://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/may/09/michigan-clerk-charged?CMP=Share_iOSApp_OtherMinnesota governor signs a bill named for Taylor Swift, and it's already triple platinum and number one on the chartshttps://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/may/08/taylor-swift-bill-minnesota @TheHeartlandPOD on Twitter and ThreadsCo-HostsAdam Sommer @Adam_Sommer85 (Twitter) @adam_sommer85 (Threads)Rachel Parker @msraitchetp (Threads) Sean Diller (no social)The Heartland Collective - Sign Up Today!JOIN PATREON FOR MORE - AND JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK!“Change The Conversation”Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium http://www.americanaquarium.com/

It's Friday, and we're breaking down the biggest stories of the week. First, more and more students and community members are gathering on the Tivoli Quad at Auraria to protest Israel's war on Hamas, and negotiations with the administrators are at a standstill. So we've got the editor in chief of Metro State's student-run newspaper, Sara Martin, joining host Bree Davies and our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to talk about rising tensions on campus ahead of graduation next week. Plus, decorum was supposed to be a priority at the legislature, but state lawmakers keep slugging it out on social media. And finally, DPD's conspicuous arrest of a hot dog vendor and more of our wins and fails of the week. We talked about Jesse Paul of the Colorado Sun's post on X about legislators' social media squabbles as well as Marianne Goodland's story on this issue from Colorado Politics. Sara mentioned her staff's recent Society of Professional Journalists awards; follow Sara's work on Twitter and in The Metropolitan. Justine mentioned the JeffCo GOP's controversial fundraiser guest and the Cobalt Abortion fund. Bree talked about the old Denver matchbooks story from Denverite and Westword's piece on hot dog vendor Alejandro Ramirez's arrest. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Fetch! Your trusted pet sitters and dog walkers Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hillary and Tina cover former Colorado House Rep. Gordon Klingenschmitt. Former Colorado House Rep. Gordon Klingenschmitt, stirred debate with some of his statements. BUT when he let his religious beliefs shape his political decisions, he hasn't secured reelection since. Sources Hillary's Story The Advocate Homophobe Gordon Klingenschmitt Wins Colo. State Rep Primary (https://www.advocate.com/politics/election/2014/06/25/homophobe-gordon-klingenschmitt-wins-colo-state-rep-primary) CBS Colorado This Time Rep. Gordon Klingenschmitt Targets The Boy Scouts Over Gay Leaders Decision (https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/this-time-rep-gordon-klingschmitt-targets-the-boy-scouts-over-gay-leaders-decision/) Comedy Central US Mr. Smith Goes to the State Legislature, Then Later Possibly Washington - Gordon Klingenschmitt - The Colbert Report (Video Clip) (https://www.cc.com/video/hhmb28/the-colbert-report-mr-smith-goes-to-the-state-legislature-then-later-possibly-washington-gordon-klingenschmitt) Colorado Politics He's baaaack: Colorado's 'Dr. Chaps' Gordon Klingenschmitt re-enters the game, seeks county GOP post | Hot-sheet (https://www.coloradopolitics.com/hot-sheet/hes-baaaack-colorados-dr-chaps-gordon-klingenschmitt-re-enters-the-game-seeks-county-gop-post/article_d718f2ff-5f1f-5486-a8f8-7183528e54df.html) CPR Colorado Springs at-large council candidate questionnaire: Gordon Klingenschmitt (https://www.cpr.org/2023/03/17/colorado-springs-at-large-council-candidate-questionnaire-gordon-klingenschmitt/) The Gazette The Pentecostal political pilgrimage of Gordon Klingenschmitt (https://gazette.com/life/the-pentecostal-political-pilgrimage-of-gordon-klingenschmitt/article_f3c96149-70a4-5624-8bae-827c7ec243c5.html) Huffington Post Ex-Colorado Lawmaker Believes Gay Demons Are Taking Over Ad Execs (https://www.huffpost.com/entry/gordon-klingenschmitt-zales-jewelers_n_584ad7f4e4b0bd9c3dfc64ac) NBC News Meet Colorado's 'Dr. Chaps' (https://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/meet-colorados-dr-chaps-msna454291) Navy chaplain on hunger strike (https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna10575660) NPR Navy Chaplain Found Guilty in Prayer Case (https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6069736) Southern Poverty Center Hate Group Leader Gordon Klingenschmitt Elected to Colorado House (https://www.splcenter.org/hatewatch/2014/11/06/hate-group-leader-gordon-klingenschmitt-elected-colorado-house) Stars and Stripes Chaplain facing court-martial for wearing uniform at D.C. protest (https://www.stripes.com/migration/chaplain-facing-court-martial-for-wearing-uniform-at-d-c-protest-1.49406?=/&subcategory=483%7CBaseball) The Washington Post Navy Chaplain Guilty Of Disobeying an Order (https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/politics/2006/09/15/navy-chaplain-guilty-of-disobeying-an-order/61f799d1-7a8b-4680-a9ae-3d1e4db393d1/) Wikipedia Gordon Klingenschmitt (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gordon_Klingenschmitt) Photos Gordon Klingenschmitt (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/84/H-Klingenschmitt.jpg/800px-H-Klingenschmitt.jpg)--by Donn Bruns via Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0 Klingenschmitt protesting outside the White House (https://www.denverpost.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/20140626__Klingenschmittp1.jpg?w=653)--via The Denver Post Klingenschmitt in the Colorado House (https://www.denverpost.com/2015/04/22/klingenschmitt-to-run-for-state-senate-in-2016/)--by RJ Sangosti via The Denver Post

Join us for a visit with Kelly Dore, a warrior for victims of human trafficking. Senators Pelton and Fields and Rep. Winter's trafficking bill will be heard before the House Judiciary committee on 3/12 and we're rallying for it to pass. I also spoke to Colorado Politics' Chief Legislative Reporter Marianne Goodland. Goodland is a gem and has a sharp eye for the goings on beneath the dome. If you're at Meat In, please come say hello! Please help us thank our sponsors, Sterling Livestock Commission Company, Crowley County Meat In, and AnywhereCam. Check your cows, check your fields, check your neighbors. Rural Mental Health Resources ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thecoffeebreakproject.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://agrability.colostate.edu/⁠⁠⁠⁠:  The vision of AgrAbility is to enhance quality of life for farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural workers with disabilities, so that they, their families, and their communities continue to succeed in rural America.   ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.caamhpforhealth.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠:  Behavioral health vouchers for farmers, ranchers, and rural community members. Good for up to six sessions with a licensed, CAAMHP certified counselor. The program is ag-friendly, remotely accessible, and anonymous.   ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.caamhpforhealth.org/family-addiction-workshop⁠⁠⁠⁠:  These workshops provide a supportive environment where parents and other adolescent care givers can work together with a licensed behavioral health professional to identify available resources, learn about addiction, grow in constructive parenting styles specific to addiction, and create safety plans.   ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.rd.usda.gov/taxonomy/term/365⁠⁠⁠⁠:  Rural Development USDA is committed to helping improve the economy and quality of life in rural America. Through our programs, we help rural Americans in many ways.   ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://ranchmanagement.com/succession-assets-vs-management/⁠⁠⁠⁠:  Who controls what? How are business decisions made? How do we help the outgoing generation step aside with confidence? ​ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/topics/farmer-mental-health#understanding-concerns⁠⁠⁠⁠:  Learn about the mental health challenges that farmers and ranchers face, with information on the root causes of stress, farmer demographics, mental health needs, and barriers to accessing care. Find tools and examples for developing programs to help address farmer mental health. ​ ⁠⁠⁠⁠A STATE OF MIND: CONFRONTING OUR MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS. The Cowboy Code:⁠⁠⁠⁠ In the west, there is a stigma around mental health that can stop people from getting treatment. Some call it the ‘cowboy code': that you are supposed to pull yourself up by your bootstraps, stuff it inside and move on. There are resources available and sometimes the bravest thing you can do is reach out for help.

Friday News Roundup for Feb 16, 2024Missouri Supreme Court again says state can't deny Medicaid funds to Planned ParenthoodBY: ANNA SPOERRE - FEBRUARY 14, 2024 3:46 PMhttps://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-supreme-court-again-says-state-cant-deny-medicaid-funds-to-planned-parenthood/for the second time in four years, Missouri's highest court rebuked lawmakers's efforts to ban abortion providers and their affiliates from receiving Medicaid reimbursements.The legislature included a line in the 2022 state budget to spend $0 for any Medicaid-covered services if the provider also offers abortions or is affiliated with an abortion provider. Abortion is illegal in Missouri. The two Planned Parenthood affiliates operating in the state – Planned Parenthood Great Plains and Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri – no longer provide abortions in Missouri, though their counterparts in Kansas and Illinois do.In a decision Wednesday, the Missouri Supreme Court once again ruled the legislature's attempt to defund Planned Parenthood through the budget was unconstitutional. The state's Medicaid program, which serves low-income and disabled Missourians, has long banned funding for abortion, with limited exceptions. Medicaid has reimbursed Planned Parenthood in the past for reproductive health services that do not include abortion, including STI and cancer screenings, as well as contraceptives. Planned Parenthood has said it hasn't received any state funds for nearly two years as this legal fight played out in court, though the organization's clinics continued to treat all patients, regardless of insurance.Advocates for Planned Parenthood have said cutting off Medicaid funding only hurts those most in need of care. in a joint statement, Yamelsie Rodriguez, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, and Emily Wales, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Great Plains, called the ongoing efforts to defund Planned Parenthood “cruel and irresponsible.”“Today, the Missouri Supreme Court again reaffirmed our patients' right to access critical care like cancer screenings, birth control, annual exams, STI testing and treatment, and more at Planned Parenthood health centers. Over and over again, the courts have rejected politicians' ongoing attempts to deprive patients of their health care by unconstitutionally kicking Planned Parenthood out of the Medicaid program. But the fight for patient access is far from over.”Kansas bill would require abortion seekers be asked for reasons before terminating pregnancyBY: ALLISON KITE - FEBRUARY 15, 2024 9:45 AMhttps://kansasreflector.com/2024/02/15/kansas-bill-would-require-abortion-seekers-be-asked-for-reasons-before-terminating-pregnancy/Kansas abortion providers would have to ask patients why they are terminating pregnancies under legislation critics argue represents an effort to “harass, intimidate and shame” pregnant women.A Kansas House committee heard Wednesday from anti-abortion groups — who argued collecting data on abortion patients would allow policymakers establish programs for those who are pregnant — and abortion-rights groups that questioned the motives behind the bill.The legislation, requested by a group called Kansans for Life, would require providers have patients rank their top reasons for seeking an abortion, such as financial difficulty, a threat to their health posed by pregnancy, or the pregnancy resulting from rape or incest.Providers would also have to collect demographic information, including age, race, marital status, state or country of residence, highest level of education, educational attainment, and whether the patient has reported domestic violence, has a safe place to live or received financial assistance from an organization that supports individuals during pregnancy. If a patient declined to answer why they sought the abortion, the provider would be required to record that.The bill would apply even to minors.Taylor Morton of Planned Parenthood Great Plains Votes said “Kansans have made it abundantly clear that they do not want politicians in their exam rooms,” referencing Kansas voters' overwhelming rejection in August 2022 of an amendment that would have removed the right to an abortion from the Kansas Constitution.“All the legislation would do, is undermine the relationship between patients and health care providers.  There's no reason for the state to demand and collect this deeply personal information from patients.”“Patients seeking literally any other form of necessary health care are not and would never be subjected to such intrusive and personal questioning, nor are pregnant people subjected to such questioning when they decide to carry a pregnancy to term.”Rep. Stephanie Clayton, D-Overland Park, questioned how patients' privacy could be protected if they reported being a victim of domestic violence or rape in a publicly released report. If a child seeks an abortion following a rape, she asked, and there aren't many such incidents reported each year, could someone connect the dots and identify them?“If someone is the victim of that terrible crime as a child, they should be able to go on, week therapy and heal and live a full, adult life without having their privacy invaded because they were the victim of a crime,” Amber Sellers, director of advocacy for Trust Women Foundation, argued the legislation would be unnecessarily burdensome.She said the right to an abortion required no more justification than the right to free speech.“These questions are confusing, and they're stigmatizing. They lack relevance, and they're medically unnecessary. They're deeply invasive.”Ban on sale, transfer of ‘assault weapons' back at Colorado CapitolBY: SARA WILSON - FEBRUARY 14, 2024 2:29 PMhttps://coloradonewsline.com/briefs/ban-on-sale-transfer-of-assault-weapons-back-at-colorado-capitol/ Two progressive Denver Democrats are backing an effort to ban the purchase and transfer of semi-automatic weapons in Colorado, a second attempt after a similar bill died in committee last year.Reps. Elisabeth Epps and Tim Hernández are the prime sponsors of House Bill 24-1292, which was introduced Tuesday. Epps also sponsored last year's version. As introduced, the bill has 14 other House Democrats signed on as sponsors.the bill's legislative declaration reads, “Assault weapons and high-capacity magazines are disproportionately used in public mass shootings, and the reasons are both obvious and irrefutable. Assault weapons are uniquely lethal by design. They entail tactical features designed for warfare, refined to maximize killing large numbers of people quickly and efficiently,” The bill would prohibit the manufacture, sale, import, transfer and purchase of many semi-automatic weapons. It would define “assault weapon” as a semi-automatic rifle that can accept a detachable magazine and has at least one of the following characteristics: a pistol grip, a folding or detachable stock to help conceal the weapon, a muzzle brake, a grenade launcher, a shroud on the barrel that lets the user hold it with their non-trigger hand and not get burned, or a threaded barrel. The bill includes a page and a half of specific examples of would-be banned weapons, including ​​AK-47s and all AKs, AR-15s and all ARs, and all Thompson rifles.It would also ban the sale and purchase of certain .50 caliber rifles, semi-automatic pistols and semi-automatic shotguns.Additionally, the bill would ban the possession of trigger activators that greatly increase the rate of fire.It includes exemptions for members of the military and police officers. Gun dealers who still have an inventory of the defined assault weapons by August could sell them to a non-Colorado resident if the transfer takes place out of state.People who already own these types of firearms would be allowed to keep them.Ten states and Washington, D.C., have some sort of assault weapon ban, according to the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. Virginia's Democratic-controlled Legislature recently passed an assault weapons ban similar to the Colorado bill, but its future is uncertain as it lands on Republican Gov. Glen Youngkin's desk.Suicide is on the rise in OhioThis article is about suicide. If you or someone you know needs support now, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.BY: ROB MOOREhttps://ohiocapitaljournal.com/2024/02/15/suicide-is-on-the-rise-in-ohio/Five Ohioans die of suicide every day.This is just one of the many data points released in a new publication by the Health Policy Institute of Ohio. Here are some of the top findings from the release.Suicide is a leading cause of death for working-age Ohioans.Over 1,400 Ohioans died from suicide in 2022, the most recent year we have data for. This makes suicide the fifth-leading cause of death for working-age Ohioans, after cancer, heart disease, COVID-19, and unintentional deaths like drug overdose and motor vehicle crashes.Suicide rates were highest in 2022 for working-age adults, higher than the rate for young adults, retirement-age adults, and children. Suicide was most common in Appalachian counties, with 15 of Ohio's 22 counties with the highest suicide rates located in Appalachia.But Suicide is on the rise for nearly everyone.Since 2007, suicide rates have increased for men and women, white, Black, and Hispanic Ohioans, and Ohioans in every age group. The only major demographic group that has seen a flat suicide trend are Asian and Pacific Islander Ohioans.Risk factors for high school students are also becoming more common.Compared to 2019, female Ohio high school students were more likely in 2021 to feel sad or hopeless, seriously consider suicide, make a plan to commit suicide, or attempt suicide. The increase in suicide rate is driven by firearms.Suicide deaths involving a firearm increased 60% from 2007 to 2022. This accounted for 75% of the total increase in suicides over that time period. If you or someone you know needs help, call 988, the national suicide hotline.Michigan State University students ask lawmakers how they will prevent the next school shootingBY: ANNA LIZ NICHOLS - FEBRUARY 15, 2024 8:23 PMhttps://michiganadvance.com/2024/02/15/michigan-state-university-students-ask-lawmakers-how-they-will-prevent-the-next-school-shooting/A year after the tragic shooting that claimed the lives of three students on Michigan State University's campus, students are still healing and trying to honor everything they lost on Feb. 13, 2023.And as the MSU, Northern Illinois University and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School communities deal with painful anniversaries of shootings at their schools this week, a mass shooting on Wednesday during the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory celebration injured more than 20 people, with one death confirmed as of Thursday.There have been 49 mass shootings in 2024 so far.A Michigan State student speaking at the Capitol steps said, “It's everywhere. It's all the time. We can't escape it. No words can really describe what the past year has been like, but I can say that despite the anger, sadness, grief, confusion, and just trying to be a college student, we never stopped showing up. I'm proud of the tireless work of students who showed up right here at the Capitol a year ago, and every day since to demand change.”MSU student and gun violence prevention organizer Maya Manuel recalled meeting with lawmakers last year, including state Sen. Sam Singh (D-East Lansing), saying “I remember looking at you, directly in your eyes and saying that the next one is going to be on you. And you took that and you went to your colleagues and you pushed out those bills just two days later.”The new laws, written in response to the MSU shooting, require gun owners to safely store firearms from minors, implement universal background checks when purchasing a firearm, create extreme risk protection orders and expand prohibitions on firearm ownership for those convicted of crimes involving domestic violence.But more progress is needed to prevent gun violence in Michigan, Manuel said. @TheHeartlandPOD on Twitter and ThreadsCo-HostsAdam Sommer @Adam_Sommer85 (Twitter) @adam_sommer85 (Post)Rachel Parker @msraitchetp (Post) Sean Diller (no social)The Heartland Collective - Sign Up Today!JOIN PATREON FOR MORE - AND JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK!“Change The Conversation”Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Friday News Roundup for Feb 16, 2024Missouri Supreme Court again says state can't deny Medicaid funds to Planned ParenthoodBY: ANNA SPOERRE - FEBRUARY 14, 2024 3:46 PMhttps://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-supreme-court-again-says-state-cant-deny-medicaid-funds-to-planned-parenthood/for the second time in four years, Missouri's highest court rebuked lawmakers's efforts to ban abortion providers and their affiliates from receiving Medicaid reimbursements.The legislature included a line in the 2022 state budget to spend $0 for any Medicaid-covered services if the provider also offers abortions or is affiliated with an abortion provider. Abortion is illegal in Missouri. The two Planned Parenthood affiliates operating in the state – Planned Parenthood Great Plains and Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri – no longer provide abortions in Missouri, though their counterparts in Kansas and Illinois do.In a decision Wednesday, the Missouri Supreme Court once again ruled the legislature's attempt to defund Planned Parenthood through the budget was unconstitutional. The state's Medicaid program, which serves low-income and disabled Missourians, has long banned funding for abortion, with limited exceptions. Medicaid has reimbursed Planned Parenthood in the past for reproductive health services that do not include abortion, including STI and cancer screenings, as well as contraceptives. Planned Parenthood has said it hasn't received any state funds for nearly two years as this legal fight played out in court, though the organization's clinics continued to treat all patients, regardless of insurance.Advocates for Planned Parenthood have said cutting off Medicaid funding only hurts those most in need of care. in a joint statement, Yamelsie Rodriguez, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, and Emily Wales, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Great Plains, called the ongoing efforts to defund Planned Parenthood “cruel and irresponsible.”“Today, the Missouri Supreme Court again reaffirmed our patients' right to access critical care like cancer screenings, birth control, annual exams, STI testing and treatment, and more at Planned Parenthood health centers. Over and over again, the courts have rejected politicians' ongoing attempts to deprive patients of their health care by unconstitutionally kicking Planned Parenthood out of the Medicaid program. But the fight for patient access is far from over.”Kansas bill would require abortion seekers be asked for reasons before terminating pregnancyBY: ALLISON KITE - FEBRUARY 15, 2024 9:45 AMhttps://kansasreflector.com/2024/02/15/kansas-bill-would-require-abortion-seekers-be-asked-for-reasons-before-terminating-pregnancy/Kansas abortion providers would have to ask patients why they are terminating pregnancies under legislation critics argue represents an effort to “harass, intimidate and shame” pregnant women.A Kansas House committee heard Wednesday from anti-abortion groups — who argued collecting data on abortion patients would allow policymakers establish programs for those who are pregnant — and abortion-rights groups that questioned the motives behind the bill.The legislation, requested by a group called Kansans for Life, would require providers have patients rank their top reasons for seeking an abortion, such as financial difficulty, a threat to their health posed by pregnancy, or the pregnancy resulting from rape or incest.Providers would also have to collect demographic information, including age, race, marital status, state or country of residence, highest level of education, educational attainment, and whether the patient has reported domestic violence, has a safe place to live or received financial assistance from an organization that supports individuals during pregnancy. If a patient declined to answer why they sought the abortion, the provider would be required to record that.The bill would apply even to minors.Taylor Morton of Planned Parenthood Great Plains Votes said “Kansans have made it abundantly clear that they do not want politicians in their exam rooms,” referencing Kansas voters' overwhelming rejection in August 2022 of an amendment that would have removed the right to an abortion from the Kansas Constitution.“All the legislation would do, is undermine the relationship between patients and health care providers.  There's no reason for the state to demand and collect this deeply personal information from patients.”“Patients seeking literally any other form of necessary health care are not and would never be subjected to such intrusive and personal questioning, nor are pregnant people subjected to such questioning when they decide to carry a pregnancy to term.”Rep. Stephanie Clayton, D-Overland Park, questioned how patients' privacy could be protected if they reported being a victim of domestic violence or rape in a publicly released report. If a child seeks an abortion following a rape, she asked, and there aren't many such incidents reported each year, could someone connect the dots and identify them?“If someone is the victim of that terrible crime as a child, they should be able to go on, week therapy and heal and live a full, adult life without having their privacy invaded because they were the victim of a crime,” Amber Sellers, director of advocacy for Trust Women Foundation, argued the legislation would be unnecessarily burdensome.She said the right to an abortion required no more justification than the right to free speech.“These questions are confusing, and they're stigmatizing. They lack relevance, and they're medically unnecessary. They're deeply invasive.”Ban on sale, transfer of ‘assault weapons' back at Colorado CapitolBY: SARA WILSON - FEBRUARY 14, 2024 2:29 PMhttps://coloradonewsline.com/briefs/ban-on-sale-transfer-of-assault-weapons-back-at-colorado-capitol/ Two progressive Denver Democrats are backing an effort to ban the purchase and transfer of semi-automatic weapons in Colorado, a second attempt after a similar bill died in committee last year.Reps. Elisabeth Epps and Tim Hernández are the prime sponsors of House Bill 24-1292, which was introduced Tuesday. Epps also sponsored last year's version. As introduced, the bill has 14 other House Democrats signed on as sponsors.the bill's legislative declaration reads, “Assault weapons and high-capacity magazines are disproportionately used in public mass shootings, and the reasons are both obvious and irrefutable. Assault weapons are uniquely lethal by design. They entail tactical features designed for warfare, refined to maximize killing large numbers of people quickly and efficiently,” The bill would prohibit the manufacture, sale, import, transfer and purchase of many semi-automatic weapons. It would define “assault weapon” as a semi-automatic rifle that can accept a detachable magazine and has at least one of the following characteristics: a pistol grip, a folding or detachable stock to help conceal the weapon, a muzzle brake, a grenade launcher, a shroud on the barrel that lets the user hold it with their non-trigger hand and not get burned, or a threaded barrel. The bill includes a page and a half of specific examples of would-be banned weapons, including ​​AK-47s and all AKs, AR-15s and all ARs, and all Thompson rifles.It would also ban the sale and purchase of certain .50 caliber rifles, semi-automatic pistols and semi-automatic shotguns.Additionally, the bill would ban the possession of trigger activators that greatly increase the rate of fire.It includes exemptions for members of the military and police officers. Gun dealers who still have an inventory of the defined assault weapons by August could sell them to a non-Colorado resident if the transfer takes place out of state.People who already own these types of firearms would be allowed to keep them.Ten states and Washington, D.C., have some sort of assault weapon ban, according to the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. Virginia's Democratic-controlled Legislature recently passed an assault weapons ban similar to the Colorado bill, but its future is uncertain as it lands on Republican Gov. Glen Youngkin's desk.Suicide is on the rise in OhioThis article is about suicide. If you or someone you know needs support now, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.BY: ROB MOOREhttps://ohiocapitaljournal.com/2024/02/15/suicide-is-on-the-rise-in-ohio/Five Ohioans die of suicide every day.This is just one of the many data points released in a new publication by the Health Policy Institute of Ohio. Here are some of the top findings from the release.Suicide is a leading cause of death for working-age Ohioans.Over 1,400 Ohioans died from suicide in 2022, the most recent year we have data for. This makes suicide the fifth-leading cause of death for working-age Ohioans, after cancer, heart disease, COVID-19, and unintentional deaths like drug overdose and motor vehicle crashes.Suicide rates were highest in 2022 for working-age adults, higher than the rate for young adults, retirement-age adults, and children. Suicide was most common in Appalachian counties, with 15 of Ohio's 22 counties with the highest suicide rates located in Appalachia.But Suicide is on the rise for nearly everyone.Since 2007, suicide rates have increased for men and women, white, Black, and Hispanic Ohioans, and Ohioans in every age group. The only major demographic group that has seen a flat suicide trend are Asian and Pacific Islander Ohioans.Risk factors for high school students are also becoming more common.Compared to 2019, female Ohio high school students were more likely in 2021 to feel sad or hopeless, seriously consider suicide, make a plan to commit suicide, or attempt suicide. The increase in suicide rate is driven by firearms.Suicide deaths involving a firearm increased 60% from 2007 to 2022. This accounted for 75% of the total increase in suicides over that time period. If you or someone you know needs help, call 988, the national suicide hotline.Michigan State University students ask lawmakers how they will prevent the next school shootingBY: ANNA LIZ NICHOLS - FEBRUARY 15, 2024 8:23 PMhttps://michiganadvance.com/2024/02/15/michigan-state-university-students-ask-lawmakers-how-they-will-prevent-the-next-school-shooting/A year after the tragic shooting that claimed the lives of three students on Michigan State University's campus, students are still healing and trying to honor everything they lost on Feb. 13, 2023.And as the MSU, Northern Illinois University and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School communities deal with painful anniversaries of shootings at their schools this week, a mass shooting on Wednesday during the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory celebration injured more than 20 people, with one death confirmed as of Thursday.There have been 49 mass shootings in 2024 so far.A Michigan State student speaking at the Capitol steps said, “It's everywhere. It's all the time. We can't escape it. No words can really describe what the past year has been like, but I can say that despite the anger, sadness, grief, confusion, and just trying to be a college student, we never stopped showing up. I'm proud of the tireless work of students who showed up right here at the Capitol a year ago, and every day since to demand change.”MSU student and gun violence prevention organizer Maya Manuel recalled meeting with lawmakers last year, including state Sen. Sam Singh (D-East Lansing), saying “I remember looking at you, directly in your eyes and saying that the next one is going to be on you. And you took that and you went to your colleagues and you pushed out those bills just two days later.”The new laws, written in response to the MSU shooting, require gun owners to safely store firearms from minors, implement universal background checks when purchasing a firearm, create extreme risk protection orders and expand prohibitions on firearm ownership for those convicted of crimes involving domestic violence.But more progress is needed to prevent gun violence in Michigan, Manuel said. @TheHeartlandPOD on Twitter and ThreadsCo-HostsAdam Sommer @Adam_Sommer85 (Twitter) @adam_sommer85 (Post)Rachel Parker @msraitchetp (Post) Sean Diller (no social)The Heartland Collective - Sign Up Today!JOIN PATREON FOR MORE - AND JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK!“Change The Conversation”Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Flyover Friday, December 15, 2023Intro: On this episode of The Heartland POD for Friday, December 15th, 2023A flyover from this weeks top heartland stories including:Welcome to The Heartland POD for a Flyover Friday, this is Sean Diller in Denver, Colorado. With me as co-host today is Adam Sommer, how you doing Adam?We're glad to have you with us. If you're new to our shows make sure you subscribe and leave a 5 star rating wherever you listen. You can also find Heartland POD content on Youtube and on social media with @ THE heartland pod, and learn more at thehearltandcollective.com  SEAN: Speaking of - the website over at  THE HEARTLAND COLLECTIVE DOT COM - if you have not yet checked it out, it is full of not just shows but articles too, including a recent on on abortion laws by Rachel Parker, really sharp stuff.  ADAM: Yeah, hats off to you and the team, shout out my and special thanks to Allyn for all the work, I think folks will like what they find over there at the site, and that article by Rachel goes great with the pod from Wednesday which was Rachel with Jess Piper and Laura Belin was back from Bleeding Heartland, a powerhouse group of women talking about abortion laws, absolutely not to be missed.  SEAN:  Plus, we're back in the saddle this coming week with the LAST CALL shows, which are for members only, we have a lot of fun on those shows and that's for patreon members, you can sign up today, $5 per month unlocks that feature, go to THE HEARTLAND COLLECTIVE DOT COM and click the button to sign up today to join us for those member only bonus shows. Alright! Let's get into the storiesSOURCES: Wisconsin Examiner, Missouri Independent, St. Louis Post Dispatch, Ohio Capital Journal, Colorado Newsline; Indiana Capitol Chronicle  Rep. Sarah Unsicker has pulled out of the Dem AG primary after a two week period in which she appears to have had serious issues pop upVery odd turn of events, disgusting anti-semetic smears and a final move of a Dark Night jOker like videoMissouri Dem leader and candidate for Governor, Crystal Quade, is taking the charge on the abortion issue in Missouri.  https://x.com/crystal_quade/status/1735330641967759416?s=20Sen. Josh Hawley (drop) has failed to include funding for nuclear waste cleanup for Missourians.  https://missouriindependent.com/2023/12/12/defense-radioactive-senate-st-lous/Wisconsin Secretary of State calls for removal of fake elector who was part of 2020 scheme for Donald Trump  https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2023/12/11/wisconsin-secretary-of-state-calls-for-removal-of-election-commissioner-who-served-as-fake-elector/Wisconsin Secretary of State Sarah Godlewski and the two Democrats on the Senate elections committee are calling for Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu (R-Oostburg) to remove state elections commissioner Robert Spindell from his position.  Democrats are calling for Spindell's removal because he served as a fake elector following the 2020 presidential election, casting a false Electoral College vote for former President Donald Trump despite Joe Biden's victory in the state. Last week, Spindell and the nine other Republicans who  joined him settled a lawsuit against them for their actions — stating publicly that Biden had won the election and agreeing not to serve as electors for Trump again.On Monday, Godlewski said Wisconsinites can't trust Spindell to have a say in how the state's elections are run.  “Wisconsin Election Commissioner Robert Spindell Jr. admitted that he was not a qualified 2020 presidential elector and co-signed a fraudulent Certificate of Votes and submitted them to my office,” Godlewski said in a statement. “That unlawful certificate was used as part of a larger scheme to overturn the election. The people of Wisconsin cannot trust the integrity and moral compass of Commissioner Spindell to administer our elections. Senator LeMahieu should immediately remove him from Wisconsin's Election Commission.”Democrats on the Senate elections committee, Sens. Jeff Smith (D-Eau Claire) and Mark Spreitzer (D-Beloit) said Monday that Spindell's admission that he participated in an effort to overturn the election results should be enough for him to resign or for LeMahieu to remove him.  “Bob Spindell has continued to serve without any repercussions for his actions and statements celebrating lower turnout and successful voter suppression,” the two senators said in a statement. “Now, Bob Spindell has admitted his involvement in the scheme to illegally overturn the 2020 presidential election, and it is abundantly clear that the Senate Majority Leader's excuses and deflections must come to an end. Bob Spindell has admitted to signing and sending false documents claiming that he was a presidential elector for the state of Wisconsin. If there were any remaining questions about whether Bob Spindell should go, they were answered when he finally acknowledged that he signed falsified documents submitted to public officials despite President Joe Biden winning the 2020 election in Wisconsin. Bob Spindell should resign. If he doesn't, Senator LeMahieu must remove him. We understand the Wisconsin Elections Commission is made up of partisan appointees, but surely Senator LeMahieu can find a different Republican who didn't attempt to illegally overturn a presidential election. The people of Wisconsin deserve better than Bob Spindell.”  Democratic Rep. Keri Ingle of Lee's Summit calls for removal of STL area Shrewsberry Rep. Unsicker from Democratic caucus in Missouri  https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/government-politics/missouri-house-democrat-calls-for-ouster-of-shrewsbury-state-rep-from-caucus/article_8b475036-9945-11ee-b25d-e3f3e17972df.htmlRep. Keri Ingle, D-Lee's Summit, said in a news release that state Rep. Sarah Unsicker of Shrewsbury “failed to denounce” antisemitic attacks, as well as accusations that members of their caucus worked for the Israeli government, in a recent livestreamed conversation with conspiracy theorists.Her press release said Democratic caucus leadership should “begin the process” of removing her.“As long as she persists in enabling and spreading this kind of rhetoric, I believe my Democratic colleagues must take swift action to uphold our caucus' commitment to fight and confront hate and intolerance by ousting her from our ranks,” Ingle said.Her press release added that Unsicker had helped “propagate hateful, antisemitic, and conspiratorial and racist rhetoric which has hurt people and sparked online harassment campaigns.”Ohio Legislation for so called “Parent's Bill Of Rights” gets push backhttps://ohiocapitaljournal.com/2023/12/13/counselors-psychologists-and-school-officials-speak-out-against-parents-bill-of-rights/Dozens, including school counselors and psychiatrists, testified Tuesday against a bill in the Ohio Senate that would force schools to notify parents on “sexuality” content, and possibly on a student's sexuality, calling it “censorship” and potentially risky for students.“Young people are people who are entitled to their own privacy,” said Mallory Golski, of the Kaleidoscope Youth Center. “Young people are people who should have the freedom to read stories that reflect their own lives and experiences.”Ohio House Bill 8 could be up for a vote this week, as the bill seeks to put the control of education more into parent's hands, by allowing them to opt out of certain curricula based on the “sexuality” content. According to one of the bill's sponsors, state Rep. D.J. Swearingen, R-Huron, school districts would also be “prohibited from keeping changes in the health of the student from their parent, and the school district is also prohibited from encouraging the student to hide these issues from their parents.”Amanda Erickson, also of the Kaleidoscope Youth Center, worried about the impact the bill will have on teachers, who may not only be required to speak with parents about information they were told by a student, but could also be impacted themselves, based on their own life choices.Erickson herself trained as a teacher, before she moved on to the nonprofit sector after graduation. A career in a classroom did not appeal to her after the efforts of the Ohio legislature, now and in the past.“Why would I want to be a teacher in Ohio when my legislators are so obsessed with gender and sexuality that they do not have time to pass legislation that would actually improve our schools,” Erickson asked of the Senate Education Committee.Erickson also argued that the law might ban her and others from putting family pictures on her desk, as it might suggest a discussion she's not allowed to have.“Since this bill does not define ‘sexual concepts' or ‘gender ideology,' there are those who would argue that my wedding photo or the questions it could prompt would qualify as one or the other,” Erickson said.The committee heard from some that currently are in the education field with members of the Ohio School Psychologists Association and the Ohio School Counselor Association both submitting in opposition to the bill, saying the bill is “not workable,” and ignores parents as an already “key tenet” in a student's education. The Missouri and Kansas border war went from civil war to friendly sports rivalry, and is reemerging as a political battle about health carehttps://missouriindependent.com/2023/12/11/university-of-kansas-deal-with-missouri-hospital-feels-terribly-wrong-to-lawmakers/The proposed takeover of Liberty Hospital in Missouri by the University of Kansas Health System is being greeted with scorn by lawmakers from both sides of the state line and both political parties.Leading the charge against the takeover in Missouri is Kansas City Democratic state Sen. Greg Razer, who said the idea of KU owning a hospital in suburban Missouri is “terribly wrong.”“There are boundaries for a reason, and they've crossed one,” said Razer, a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia.The Republican leader of the Kansas Senate also has expressed concern about the takeover, along with at least one member of Liberty Hospital's board of trustees.Earlier this month, Razer pre-filed a bill in the Missouri General Assembly that would put a stop to a proposed partnership between the University of Kansas Health System and Liberty Hospital by prohibiting hospital boards to partner with an out-of-state health system “operated by an institution of higher education” without voter approval.“I can't imagine the outrage of Missouri taxpayers if we opened up (University of Missouri) Health in Olathe, Kansas,” Razer said, calling the proposed arrangement “mind boggling.”Liberty Hospital announced in May it was looking to partner with another health system to help it expand to meet growing demand in the Kansas City suburbs north of the Missouri River. In October, it announced it had chosen KU.The two health systems have signed a letter of intent but are still in negotiations, and the terms of the deal are not yet available. But Liberty Hospital CEO Dr. Raghu Adiga said in an interview Friday that KU had pledged to continue the services the hospital provides, including cardiothoracic surgery and a level-two trauma center.  Adiga said those are rare for a hospital Liberty's size.“They put the patients first just like us,” Adiga said, “ensuring high-quality health care that we can provide right here in town.”In a video announcing the deal in October, he said the partnership “will bring world class clinical excellence across the river to every Northlander's doorstep.”Razer said the arrangement would take health care dollars from Missouri to “prop up Kansas,” and feared it would be a recruiting tool for the University of Kansas.  “Liberty has a lot of high school students. … They get great grades. It's a great school district up there. They're all going to be driving by a Jayhawk every day in the state of Missouri,” Razer said.Razer's primary objection centered on the idea of having a Kansas state institution plant its flag in Missouri.The University of Kansas Health System is governed by the University of Kansas Hospital Authority, a board established in Kansas statute, primarily appointed by the Kansas governor and affiliated with the University of Kansas School of Medicine. But the health system hasn't been owned by the state in 25 years. It receives no state or local tax dollars. Indiana, one of the most “red” states in the union, is struggling to keep up economically speakinghttps://indianacapitalchronicle.com/2023/12/13/hoosier-economic-policy-improving-slower-than-competitors-report-says/Indiana has improved on key economic development criteria in recent years, but has still fallen in national rankings, the influential Indiana Chamber of Commerce found in a report card Tuesday.The chamber in August released a vision for Indiana in 2035, with 31 goals for the state's education, entrepreneurship, economic growth, energy and infrastructure, health, quality of place and workforce.The report cards — expected to be biannual — log progress on 59 metrics related to those goals.Compared to previous years, the state scored better on about 67% of the metrics — but its national rankings on those metrics improved just 41% of the time.“What that tells us is that we're improving overall — but the progress isn't happening fast enough, because other states are improving at a faster pace,” outgoing President and CEO Kevin Brinegar told reporters Tuesday. “We need to pick up the pace.”Indiana's strongest performance was a third-place ranking for the 11% of Hoosiers working in knowledge- and technology-intensive industries, like manufacturing or software development.It came in fourth for the 63% of foreign-born Hoosiers with science or engineering bachelor's degrees, as well as for the 10% of non-white workers who are self-employed.More Rail Service In Colorado… coming soon?  https://coloradonewsline.com/briefs/front-range-rail-development/Front Range Passenger Rail District will get a $500,000 planning grant as part of the federal Corridor ID program, which aims to help development of intercity passenger rail projects. The idea, Bose said, is to get projects into the pipeline for implementation, eventually connecting an entire corridor of cities to rail service.The Front Range Passenger Rail District, which was created through 2021 legislation, is planning a rail line that would connect cities between Fort Collins and Pueblo.“Colorado is very, very well positioned in the Corridor ID program,” Bose said, partly because the district has already defined the scope of its service development program and can move forward to the second step of the program. There are “tens of millions of dollars” for project planning now that the scope is set.The Colorado project is one of 70 that the Federal Railroad Administration selected to get money from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.“The fact that we have a federal administration that's committed to helping us dream up and execute a project like this is not an opportunity that we can take for granted. I think it shows us what kind of a moment we have,” Lew said.Polis is pushing a housing agenda that encourages development along transit corridors, and he is likely to champion related legislation next year. Though the state is years away from putting Front Range residents onto passenger rail cars, the agenda represents a goal for people to live near their primary mode of transportation and commute more easily without adding traffic congestion.“Coupled with bus rapid transit and transit oriented neighborhoods, passenger rail is a huge lynchpin in this vision we have for smarter growth, for improving affordability, livability and sustainability as Colorado grows,” Polis said.   @TheHeartlandPOD on Twitter and ThreadsCo-HostsAdam Sommer @Adam_Sommer85 (Twitter) @adam_sommer85 (Post)Rachel Parker @msraitchetp (Post) Sean Diller (no social)The Heartland Collective - Sign Up Today!JOIN PATREON FOR MORE - AND JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK!“Change The Conversation”Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium http://www.americanaquarium.com/

U.S. Representative Lauren Boebert had a big night out at the theater in Denver this past weekend, complete with vaping, loud singing, and being escorted out. But is this just a case of Big Divorced Energy from the MAGA darling? Or a sign of something bigger? The story (and the surveillance tapes) exploded this week, just as Boebert was attempting to roll out a new image, so we're breaking it all down. Newly elected state representative Tim Hernández joins our state politics and green chile correspondent, Justine Sandoval, to discuss the congresswoman's night out in Denver with producer Paul Karolyi. Plus, all the other local stories that mattered this week and this week's Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows.  Do you want to be a founding member of City Cast Denver? We've been publishing a daily podcast for more than two years, bringing you useful interviews with mayoral candidates and deep dives into important subjects like development in Cherry Creek and pizza. Consider joining to support our work, plus get an ad-free version of the podcast for as little as $8 per month. Learn more and sign up today at membership.citycast.fm. Paul mentioned a Politico article on Boebert, Meati's growth, Thornton's water woes, the Marijuana Mansion's sale price, the new design rendering for Cherry Creek West, and our episode with Colorado Springs representative Stephanie Vigil. Justine talked about a bear and state parks passes. Tim discussed the officer who shot Jor'Dell Richardson and this Colorado Politics article about legislator pay.  For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Thirst Denver BadBoyBoards Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices