Podcasts about The Colorado Sun

The Colorado State Capitol Building opened its doors in November 1894. A grand neo-classical monument in the West, it used local materials to capture some of the feel of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Over the decades it's become, like many statehouses across the country, a trove of artwork, history and curiosities. The building is also the frequent site of protests, rallies, celebrations and a variety of other public events, a “People's House,” if you will. In this repeat episode of Purplish, which first published last fall, we shift the conversation from the consequential laws and debates that happen in the state's seat of power to the building itself. CPR's Bente Birkeland and Stephanie Wolf travel from top to bottom to explore what's on its walls and in its halls — and phone a friend for a rare look into what's down below the basement. Their reporting reveals that the building, and its many collections, open up bigger conversations, not just about history but about the state right now. Read more of our reporting: CPR News: Portrait donated by White House will hang temporarily in capitol where painting Trump despised used to be CPR News: Should Colorado Display A Rediscovered Portrait Of Its KKK Governor? Rocky Mountain Community Radio: How a wonky radiator helped uncover the Capitol's bygone glory Denverite: Meet the ‘Bloody Espinosas' and other Colorado Capitol legends on these free ghost tours Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Startup funding for the Alliance was provided, in part, by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Other music in this episode is courtesy of Blue Dot Sessions. Megan Verlee is CPR News' executive producer of podcasts.

Today, Colorado Sun education reporter Erica Breunlin has updates on the new state law instructing all Colorado districts and charter schools to create a policy that spells out when and how students can use cellphones during the school day. https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/18/colorado-school-districts-student-cellphone-policy-state-law/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Colorado Sun business reporter Tamara Chuang looks into the high prices of beef and the challenges for ranchers and the industry right now. https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/20/beef-hamburgers-prices-inflation-agriculture/ https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/22/ready-for-your-next-steak-these-ranchers-are-battling-drought-to-bring-it-to-you/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While there's been plenty of coverage of the gubernatorial, congressional, and U.S. Senate primaries, smaller but equally important battles are also being fought in Denver – like the race to represent Colorado Senate District 34 (a seat currently held by Julie Gonzales). Two Democrats are vying to represent the downtown and northwest Denver district: Andrés Carrera and Chela Garcia Irlando. They engaged in a heated forum last week on stage at Su Teatro, with our producer Paul Karolyi moderating. With the primary election just eight days away, we're sharing this live recording of Carrera and Garcia Irlando, who fiercely debated everything from data centers and the city's handling of the migrant crisis to RTD's budget issues and the role of dark money in this very race. A quick clarification on the “dark money” exchange: After the forum, Conservation Colorado Victory Fund reached out to let us know that they had reported spending on the mailers Paul mentioned, but that the secretary of state's office had not yet updated its database at the time of the forum. For more, the Colorado Sun reported last Thursday a breakdown of all the spending from groups that don't disclose their donors in support of candidates in state legislature races, including SD34.  For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter 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 Would you vote for Chela or Andrés? 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 Learn more about the sponsors of this June 22nd episode: Energy Outreach Colorado Vail Wine Classic Denver health Central City Opera Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Today Colorado Sun business reporter Tamara Chuang talks about the recent Colorado Sun series looking into the real estate troubles in downtown Denver and how the city and the Downtown Development Authority are trying to revive the heart of Colorado’s biggest city. What the heck is going on downtown?https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/14/downtown-denver-commercial-real-estate-market/ Civic Center park revamphttps://coloradosun.com/2026/06/16/the-plan-for-reviving-civic-center-park-denver/ Denver Pavilions new approachhttps://coloradosun.com/2026/06/17/denver-pavilions-new-era/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we’re talking to Brian Eason, a Colorado Sun investigative reporter and the assistant editor of our politics and policy team. Last week, the Colorado Sun published a stunning investigation by Brian into huge bonuses worth six figures given to investment managers at Colorado PERA, the largest public pension plan in the state. Read more: https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/08/colorado-pera-staff-bonuses-shrinking-pension-fund-analysis/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the weekend, a rally featuring congressional candidate Melat Kiros and leftist political pundit Hasan Piker was booted from three locations before settling on the steps of the Capitol. By the time the gathering kicked off Sunday afternoon, Piker had dropped out and Kiros accused her challenger, incumbent Diana DeGette, of sabotaging the rally. So, what really happened? Westword editor-in-chief Patty Calhoun joins host Bree Davies to talk through what we heard from both campaigns, plus discuss Juneteenth's celebration expanding and Patty's tour of Denver's alleged “Mad Max-esque” downtown with conservative talk show duo Jeff and Bill.    Bree also mentioned the Wall Street Journal's story and the Colorado Sun's reporting on the state of downtown. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter 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 June 16th  episode: Energy Outreach Colorado Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for up to 20% off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Today, Colorado Sun business reporter Tamara Chuang looks at the latest inflation numbers in Colorado and the rippled down effect on affordability in a state that’s already one of the most expensive to live in. https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/10/denver-area-inflation-increases-5-percent-2026/ https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/13/inflation-affordability-denver-colorado-gas-prices/ https://www.federalreserve.gov/releases/z1/dataviz/dfa/distribute/table/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Congressional races across the state are heating up: with the gloves coming off in the Democratic primary for Colorado's newest, and swingiest, district; other longtime Colorado Democrats facing challenges from more progressive candidates; and a Republican freshman trying to defend his seat from his right flank.CPR's Bente Birkeland and Caitlyn Kim, along with Kiara DeMare and Rae Solomon, discuss who's on the ballot, as well as the dynamics of these races and what it says about politics right now.Catch up with our latest coverage: CPR News: 2026 Colorado Primary Election Voter Guide CPR News: A new season of the Who's Gonna Govern podcast CPR News: Melat Kiros says she'll bring change, lower costs in bid for Congressional District 1 seat CPR News: Rep. Diana DeGette is focused on healthcare in bid for 30th year in Congress  CPR News: Wanda James brings military experience to Congressional District 1 campaign as war in Iran rages Denverite: Denver congressional candidate Wanda James sues other CU Regents over censure CPR News: What voters in Colorado's newest and most competitive congressional district are thinking about right now Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Startup funding for the Alliance was provided, in part, by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Other music in this episode is courtesy of Blue Dot Sessions. Megan Verlee is CPR News' executive producer of podcasts.

Today, Colorado Sun rural reporter Tracy Ross continues to track news from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, including a rancher who says an employee killed a wolf as well as the governor’s latest appointments to the CPW commission. https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/04/ranch-owner-says-employee-killed-king-mountain-wolf/ https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/10/colorado-parks-and-wildlife-new-commissioners-jared-polis/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Colorado Sun business reporter Tamara Chuang looks at how Colorado teens are facing new challenges to landing some of the traditional summertime jobs. Read more: https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/06/colorado-teenagers-summer-jobs-employers/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the SeventySix Capital Sports Leadership Show, Wayne Kimmel interviewed Margaret Fleming, Reporter at Front Office Sports.Fleming covers the business of soccer, the FIFA World Cup, and breaking news shaping the sports industry. She shares insights into the evolving soccer landscape and the stories driving the global sports business conversation.Fleming previously covered the business of sports media as a fellow at Business Insider, with a special focus on NIL, women's sports, VCs and startups, and sports betting. She also worked at CNBC, The Colorado Sun and Pittsburgh's NPR station, and has bylines in ProPublica, the Chicago Tribune, Tampa Bay Times, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, and Equalizer Women's Soccer Magazine.She received her BSJ and MSJ from Northwestern University, where she was a part of WNUR Sports and the Medill Investigative Lab.Fleming is based out of the FOS office in New York.Margaret Fleming:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-fleming-1874631a5/

Colorado released former Mesa County clerk Tina Peters on parole June 1 from a women's state correctional facility in Pueblo. She was less than two years into a nearly nine-year sentence for her role in tampering with county voting machines months after the 2020 presidential election, part of an effort to search for election rigging. Peters, who has become a hero among some MAGA voters, wasted no time repeating claims that Democrats are using technology to steal elections. The decision to free Peters early has potentially upended Gov. Jared Polis' final months in office, enraging his political allies and disheartening defenders of the election system.CPR's Bente Birkeland and Tom Hesse dig into this long and complicated tale, from the original plot to access Mesa County's election equipment, to the pressure campaign President Donald Trump launched to free her and Polis' recent clemency decision. They also discuss what her early release could mean for elections and politics in the state, and elsewhere, going forward. Catch up on our latest coverage: Colorado Matters: ‘It brainwashes people:' Head of Colorado's county clerks is concerned Tina Peters' disinformation against elections will continue CPR News: Former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters released from prison CPR News: Colorado Democrats censure Gov. Jared Polis over Tina Peters commutation CPR News: Trump hails Peters' commutation as state Democrats call it ‘a sad day' CPR News: The Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters' election security controversy, explained (2022) Colorado in Depth: The Colorado clerk on trial for the big lie, and what it means for the 2024 election Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Startup funding for the Alliance was provided, in part, by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Other music in this episode is courtesy of Blue Dot Sessions. Additional reporting from CPR's Kevin Beaty, Sam Brasch, Anthony Cotton and Ryan Warner. Megan Verlee is CPR News' executive producer of podcasts.

Today, Colorado Sun arts and culture Parker Yamasaki highlights the latest installments of our Colorado 150 series celebrating the people, places and things that make Colorado so unique leading up to the 150th anniversary celebration of statehood. Landing page:https://coloradosun.com/colorado-150/ May 7 episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/colorado-150th-birthday-celebration-underway/id1529487340?i=1000766587825 April 23 episode:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sun-getting-in-on-colorados-150th-anniversary/id1529487340?i=1000763215424 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're bringing you a conversation on the Colorado gubernatorial race from the Purplish podcast. This week's episode features Colorado Sun Elections Editor Jesse Paul and Colorado Public Radio's Public Affairs Reporter Bente Birkeland and Investigative Reporter Ben Markus. Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Colorado Sun business reporter Tamara Chuang breaks down layoffs at the state office of IT, the most recent Colorado job numbers and other labor-related news across Colorado. Read more: https://coloradosun.com/2026/05/27/colorado-overhauls-state-it-office-lays-off-employees/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colorado's primary elections are just around the corner. And there's a lot riding on them — all of the statewide constitutional offices are on the ballot — and thanks to term limits, all of those races are wide open, including Colorado's top office: governor. The fields include a who's who of Colorado politics, and one newcomer who may have the potential to shake things up.CPR's Bente Birkeland talks with The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul and CPR's Ben Markus about who's on the Democratic and Republican tickets and the dynamics at play as they vie for votes. The five hopefuls on the ballot are running at a time when both parties are doing a bit of soul searching, and Coloradans on both sides of the aisle seem frustrated with the status quo. Catch up on our latest coverage: CPR News: 2026 Colorado Primary Election Voter Guide CPR News: Bottoms, Kirkmeyer make their cases to primary voters in CPR News gubernatorial candidates debate CPR News: Democratic gubernatorial candidates Bennet and Weiser make their pitches to voters in live debate The Colorado Sun: A third of Colorado voters have still never heard of Phil Weiser, poll shows CPR News: Colorado GOP governor primary pits MAGA candidates against establishment favorite The Colorado Sun: Tina Peters isn't the first Colorado convict to become a central figure in a governor's race Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Startup funding for the Alliance was provided, in part, by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Megan Verlee is the executive producer.

Today, Colorado Sun rural reporter Tracy Ross has updates from Fort Morgan and the labor standoff at the Cargill meat packing facility, one of the largest employers in the area, and what it means for the town's coffers and national supply chain. Read more: https://coloradosun.com/2026/05/27/cargills-lockout-of-workers-sends-ripples-through-supply-chain/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Read more: https://coloradosun.com/2026/05/23/colorado-front-range-foreclosures-housing/ Today, Colorado Sun business reporter Tamara Chuang discusses the uptick in foreclosures along the Front Range and the increase in the number of Colorado homebuyers struggling to pay their mortgage and asking for guidance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From speed cameras to vaccine policy to ketchup packets, which of the laws passed by the 2026 legislature will impact people’s lives five or 10 years from now? That’s the question Colorado Sun Political Reporter Jesse Paul and other guests of the Purplish podcast tackle today, less than a week after the 2026 Colorado legislative session wrapped up. This podcast is brought to you by the Colorado Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From speed cameras to vaccine policy to ketchup packets, which of the laws passed by the 2026 legislature will actually be affecting people's daily lives, five or ten years from now. That's the question that launches our session wrap up conversation. But in a year when new policies often took a backseat to painful budget realities, there were also lots of politics to keep things interesting. Catch up on our latest coverage: CPR News: Lawmakers pass dozens of bills as 2026 session wraps up CCNA: 101 bills that passed and failed in Colorado's legislature this year that you need to know about CPR News: Colorado lawmakers ask voters to consider giving up TABOR refunds to fund schools CPR News: Polis says he will sign pared down AI bill that passed overnight Colorado Sun: Colorado lawmakers reject bill that would have required legislative caucuses to report their donors KUNC: Colorado legislature passes bill to allow lawsuits against ICE agents, other immigration officers  Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Startup funding for the Alliance was provided, in part, by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Megan Verlee is the executive producer.

Today, Colorado Sun business reporter Tamara Chuang looks at the bills in the statehouse that will affect businesses and where they stand in the closing days of the Colorado legislature. https://coloradosun.com/2026/05/09/colorado-legislature-swipe-fees-artificial-intelligence-centurylink-bills-laws/ https://coloradosun.com/2026/05/05/colorado-gas-prices-truckers-ride-sharing-drivers-uber-lyft/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Sun is three weeks into our months-long Colorado 150 project celebrating 150 years of statehood. Today, Colorado Sun arts and culture reporter Parker Yamasaki and team editor David Krause talk about the first three top-10 lists and what’s coming in May. Read more: https://coloradosun.com/colorado-150/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we're featuring a conversation between Colorado Sun Politics and Policy Reporter Taylor Dolven, Colorado Public Radio Public Affairs Reporter Bente Birkland and Denver Post Immigration Reporter Seth Klamann about lawmakers' efforts to hold federal immigration officers accountable when they step outside of the law. Multiple bills are being considered in the Colorado legislature that would raise questions about the limits of state authority when it comes to how federal immigration agents behave within Colorado’s borders. This conversation first appeared on the Purplish podcast from Colorado Public Radio and is being shared with the Colorado Sun through the Colorado Capitol News Alliance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Colorado Sun education reporter Erica Breunlin breaks down the recent teachers strike that disrupted Sheridan School District for more than three weeks and what the resolution looks like, thanks to the governor’s office stepping in. https://coloradosun.com/2026/04/29/colorado-sheridan-school-district-consolidation-teacher-strike/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many of Colorado's Democratic lawmakers came into this legislative session determined to push back against the Trump administration, especially on the president's aggressive immigration enforcement tactics. They introduced proposals to ban state and local law enforcement from concealing their identity in most situations and to allow Coloradans to sue federal agents who violate their rights. But not all Democrats are on board with these ideas — worried they may harm legitimate law enforcement efforts and fail to keep the community safer. And the legislation raises big questions about the limits of state authority when it comes to how federal immigration agents behave within Colorado's borders.CPR's Bente Birkeland, The Colorado Sun's Taylor Dolven and The Denver Post's Seth Klamann discuss the different bills, the potential legal challenges and the politics surrounding this issue, at a time when the stakes feel like they couldn't be higher. Catch up on the latest coverage: The Denver Post: Judge again blocks Gov. Jared Polis from directing state officials to comply with an ICE subpoena The Denver Post: Federal judge criticizes ICE agents at Denver hearing for not knowing about earlier order limiting arrests The Colorado Sun: Colorado lawmakers reject bill that would have required police to intervene when ICE agents use excessive force The Denver Post: Thousands of immigrants in Colorado were arrested and deported during Trump's first year The Colorado Sun: As some Democratic governors lead on ICE pushback, Jared Polis is taking a hands-off approach The Colorado Sun: Democratic lawmakers plan package of bills to further regulate federal immigration enforcement in Colorado Denverite: What we saw from inside ICE's raid at Aurora's Edge apartments Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Startup funding for the Alliance was provided, in part, by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Megan Verlee is the executive producer. Additionally reporting for this episode from Denverite's Kevin Beaty.

Today, Colorado Sun rural reporter Tracy Ross talks about why two of three people appointed by the governor to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife commission didn’t keep their seats and how the state agency is coming under more and more scrutiny. https://coloradosun.com/2026/04/24/one-colorado-parks-wildlife-commissioner-confirmed-two-resign/ https://coloradosun.com/2026/04/22/did-polis-stack-cpw-commission-with-anti-hunting-interests/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Colorado Sun business reporter Tamara Chuang looks into the continuing drop in average rent in Denver and why it’s trending that way. Read more: https://coloradosun.com/2026/04/25/denver-renters-market-average-rents/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colorado has a part-time, citizen legislature, driven by the notion that it's important to have people from all kinds of professional backgrounds bringing their experience to lawmaking. So for four months every year, state legislators pause their regular lives to be at the Capitol. But the flexibility to do that can be hard to come by, and some say the pay — currently around $47,000 a year — makes things even harder. Now, an approach lawmakers hoped would take the politics out of the pay raise process could end up boosting their wages at the worst possible time.CPR's Bente Birkeland and KUNC's Lucas Brady Woods lean into the ongoing debate and tension around how much state lawmakers earn, what it means for the legislative process and the variety of fixes, from the financial to the fundamental, some have proposed. Catch up on our latest coverage: CPR News: How much are Colorado's state legislators paid? CPR News: Amid budget cuts, legislators and statewide office holders set for pay increases next year The Independent Elected State Official Pay Commission's 2025 Pay Report Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Startup funding for the Alliance was provided, in part, by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Megan Verlee is the executive producer. Additional reporting for this episode from Rae Solomon.

Today, Colorado Sun events specialist Kristina Pritchett previews our fourth annual Colorado SunFest, which is May 1 at the University of Denver, and how it’s evolved from an idea to a day of conversations and ways to make Colorado even better. https://coloradosun.com/colorado-sunfest/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Colorado Sun arts and culture reporter Parker Yamasaki talks about our new Colorado 150 project to commemorate the Colorado 150th statehood celebration this year and what readers and listeners can expect with our series leading up to Aug. 1. https://coloradosun.com/colorado-150/ https://coloradosun.com/2026/04/22/colorado-150-scenic-drives-and-roadside-attractions/ https://coloradosun.com/2022/08/01/how-colorado-are-you-quiz/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ballots for Colorado's June 30 primary are just about set. Colorado Sun political reporter Jesse Paul joined Bente Birkeland and Caitlyn Kim of CPR News on the latest edition of the Purplish podcast to break down who's on it. Read more: https://coloradosun.com/2026/04/11/scott-bottoms-gop-primary-ballot-colorado-governor/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Colorado Sun business and tech reporter Tamara Chuang looks at the surprising business filing numbers in Colorado for the first quarter, layoffs coming after the First Bank merger and her Colorado SunFest panel, which will include an AI robot demonstration. Panel: https://coloradosun.com/2026/04/09/colorado-sunfest-2026-panel-ai-in-our-lives/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Primary ballots will land in Coloradans' mailbox in a few weeks, and now, voters know which candidates will be on them. Many got there by winning over party activists at the recent Democratic and Republican state assemblies in Pueblo. These were high-stakes gatherings in a high-stakes election year, as hopefuls lined up for all of Colorado's top offices: U.S senator, governor, attorney general, secretary of state and treasurer.CPR's Bente Birkeland, The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul and CPR's Caitlyn Kim break down which candidates rallied enough delegate support, what kinds of competitions it sets up for the primary in June, and what this method of selecting candidates means in the big picture.Catch up on our latest coverage: CPR News/KRCC: Gubernatorial candidates Scott Bottoms, Victor Marx win slots on GOP primary ballot at state assembly CPR News: Democrats gather in Pueblo to select candidates for primary ballot CPR News: Kirkmeyer, Marx, Bennet file petitions to get on ballot for gubernatorial primaries The Colorado Sun: Colorado's unaffiliated voters say they're intentionally not joining a political party. Here's why. The Colorado Sun: Republicans who want to opt out of Colorado's primaries get major boost from federal judge's ruling The Colorado Sun: State senator defeats two Democratic rivals, securing lone spot on primary ballot for Colorado treasurer The Colorado Sun: Diana DeGette narrowly made the primary ballot. Here's why you maybe shouldn't read too much into it. Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Startup funding for the Alliance was provided, in part, by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Megan Verlee is the executive producer. Additional reporting for this episode from KRCC's Briana Heaney.

After being in business since the 1980s, Moda Man is closing the doors of its downtown menswear shop. Was the pandemic to blame? Or a loss of parking to bike lanes, the lack of Denverites going back to the office, or something more? Freelance journalist Daliah Singer joins host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love to look at how retail trends are reshaping downtown. Plus, they dig into the wild backstory of Idaho Springs' new gondola, discuss the drought's impact on fishing, tubing, and other beloved Colorado summer activities up in the mountains, and share their tips on how to dress for Denver's confusing spring weather.  Olivia talked about the Colorado Sun's reporting on some of the recent lore behind the Mighty Argo gondola project in Idaho Springs, which is set to open with a VIP ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 24.  P.S. Have you ever thought about becoming a City Cast Denver Neighbor? Now is the time. For just $10 a month or $100 a year, you can support local journalism and get great perks and help us keep this show and our newsletter going! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter 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 Do you go downtown to shop? Are you excited about Idaho Springs' latest tourist draw? 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 April 16th episode: The Park People TaskRabbit Denver Health DOTI University of Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

New York Times editor Dean Baquet will be the keynote speaker at our fourth annual Colorado SunFest, which is May 1st at the University of Denver. He joins Colorado Sun publisher and co-founder Larry Ryckman to preview their SunFest conversation and talk about the state of media in America. https://coloradosun.com/colorado-sunfest/https://coloradosun.com/2026/03/13/colorado-sunfest-2026-keynote-speaker-new-york-times-dean-baquet/ Photo: Dean Baquet, former New York Times editor. (Courtesy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A bill advancing through Colorado's statehouse would require law enforcement officers to ask a set of 11 questions — 11 very specific questions, meant to measure someone's risk of dying at the hands of their abuser. Backers say the change is especially urgent now, because even though homicides in Colorado have gone down in recent years, domestic violence killings have gone up. CPR's Bente Birkeland, KUNC's Kyle McKinnon and CPR's Ava Kian discuss efforts to try to improve how law enforcement across Colorado responds to domestic violence calls, and the unique challenges of addressing domestic violence. Catch up on our latest coverage: CPR News: Advocates push for a statewide protocol for domestic violence victims KUNC: Colorado lawmakers want police to take new steps when responding to domestic violence calls KUNC: Colorado faces domestic violence crisis as survivor danger escalates CPR News: Colorado domestic violence deaths rise even as statewide homicides fall Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Startup funding for the Alliance was provided, in part, by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Megan Verlee is the executive producer.

Finding a job in Colorado is difficult right now for a lot of folks, as employers are hiring but more cautiously. Today, Colorado Sun business reporter Tamara Chuang breaks down the latest job numbers and what those who are hiring and those who are looking for work are saying. Read more: https://coloradosun.com/2026/04/04/colorado-job-openings/ https://coloradosun.com/2026/04/01/colorado-business-leaders-negative-future-economy/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Decades ago, Colorado lawmakers set statewide limits on noise for different types of areas — lower limits near homes, louder away from them. But a recent court case has upended the status quo around which venues are allowed to be extra loud and how much say local governments have, and that has state lawmakers this year stirring up a noisy debate over noise.CPR's Bente Birkeland and Dan Boyce delve into the complexity of noise and how people experience it, the debate over state limits versus local control, and why the Ford Amphitheater in Colorado Springs is at the center of this debate.Catch up on our coverage: CPR News: Local noise permit bill passes Senate after contentious committee hearing KRCC: Statehouse proposal would allow cities to issue noise permits for properties like the Ford Amphitheater in Colorado Springs KRCC: Ford Amphitheater opponents hope Colorado Supreme Court ruling will bring the noise down KRCC: Colorado Springs mayor, city staff will meet with operators of Ford Amphitheater after widespread noise complaints And check out two past Purplish topics that are back in the news: Colorado banned conversion therapy for minors. A U.S. Supreme Court case could upend that Tina Peters is headed to trial – how did we get here? Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Startup funding for the Alliance was provided, in part, by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Megan Verlee is the executive producer. 

Today, Colorado Sun arts and culture reporter Parker Yamasaki discusses the big changes coming at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science as they prepare to close the popular gem and mineral hall for a major renovation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Medicaid is driving the $1.5 billion state budget shortfall Colorado lawmakers are trying to address this year. Colorado Sun reporter Jesse Paul joined Bente Birkeland of CPR News and Seth Klamann of The Denver Post on the latest episode of Purplish to explore why and what's being done to try to rein in spending on the health care program for low income Coloradans. Read more: https://coloradosun.com/2025/12/01/colorado-medicaid-spending-state-budget/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we’re checking in with Colorado Sun business reporter Tamara Chuang about Colorado companies are navigating the Supreme Court decision that the Trump administration’s tariffs are illegal. Read more: https://coloradosun.com/2026/03/30/colorado-importers-tariff-refunds/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The six lawmakers tasked with writing Colorado's budget have an excruciating job this year — they must find about $1.5 billion in savings to keep the budget in balance, and understand that many of their cuts will have direct, human consequences. That's because the state's Medicaid program, which provides health coverage to low-income Coloradans, accounts for a significant part of Colorado's budget, and costs have ballooned in recent years.CPR's Bente Birkeland, The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul and The Denver Post's Seth Klamann discuss what's driving rising Medicaid costs for the state, where lawmakers are looking for savings and what this all means for Colorado residents. Catch up on the latest coverage: The Colorado Sun: Colorado's state budget shortfall grows to more than $1.5 billion, forcing legislature to make much deeper cuts CPR News: Impact of state budget cuts gets real as lawmakers start trimming Medicaid programs The Colorado Sun: Providing health care to immigrants who are children or pregnant is costing Colorado 611% more than expected The Denver Post: As Medicaid costs rise, should Colorado charge fees on large employers that don't insure all workers? The Denver Post: Flawed analysis caused Colorado Medicaid program's costs to surge and made it ‘attractive' to fraud CPR News: Medicaid recipients, advocates furious over state mistake that's costing tens of millions of dollars The Colorado Sun: Legislature mulls ballot measure that would ask voters to raise TABOR cap by billions primarily to fund Colorado's schools Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Startup funding for the Alliance was provided, in part, by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Megan Verlee is the executive producer. Additional reporting for this episode from CPR's John Daley and The Colorado Sun's John Ingold and Erica Breunlin. 

Colorado's prisons have been filled nearly to capacity for months. And when the state has too many people in its prisons, difficult living conditions can quickly become intolerable. That's got Colorado Department of Corrections officials, staff and some lawmakers worried. DOC says it needs more money to fund hundreds of additional beds for male inmates. But state lawmakers in both parties say DOC has failed to come up with a plan to address systemic issues.CPR's Bente Birkeland and KUNC's Kyle McKinnon dig into how the state got to the point of such high occupancy in its prisons, the ripple effect of crowding in prisons and how conversations on solutions are playing out at the State Capitol. Catch up on our coverage: KUNC News: Colorado's prisons and jails are overflowing. What's being done? CPR News: State budget committee rejects request for more prison beds until DOC provides more complete plan KUNC News: Colorado lawmakers reverse course, approve funding for new prison beds Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Startup funding for the Alliance was provided, in part, by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Megan Verlee is the executive producer.

Colorado Sun political reporter Jesse Paul appeared on the Colorado Today podcast recently to discuss with host Haylee May a bill that would add regulations for AI chatbots accessible in Colorado. The podcast is produced by Colorado Public Radio. Read more: https://coloradosun.com/2026/02/25/colorado-chatgpt-chatbot-regulations/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Colorado Sun business reporter Tamara Chuang breaks down legislation going through the Colorado Capitol that would take sales tax out of the equation for swipe fees.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Flock cameras, and other license plate reader systems, are installed all over Colorado. The technology gives law enforcement access to a new level of tracking, a reach they say has helped them solve all kinds of terrible crimes and made the state safer. But community fears that law enforcement could misuse the data and invade people's privacy, and share it with federal immigration authorities, are mounting — and getting the attention of state lawmakers. CPR's Bente Birkeland and Denverite's Andrew Kenney dig into how this kind of surveillance tech has changed in recent years, the arguments for and against it and how some Colorado lawmakers hope to restrict how law enforcement can access this data. Catch up on our latest coverage: New restrictions on police surveillance advance in state Senate Denver fires Flock, prepares to switch to new roadway surveillance system Officer faces discipline after using Flock cameras to falsely accuse Denver woman of package theft Police used Flock cameras to accuse a Denver woman of package theft. She had her own evidence Out-of-state cops had access to Denver license plate data for immigration cases for months Denver is at the center of a viral national fight over surveillance Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Funding for the Alliance is provided in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Hazel Feldstein assistant produced this episode. Additional reporting from Denverite's Kiara DeMare and Kyle Harris. Megan Verlee is the executive producer. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner.

Today, Colorado Sun rural reporter Tracy Ross puts perspective on the recent Colorado Parks and Wildlife meetings where talk of possible hunting limits and commercial sales of furbearers became heated and confusing for many. Read more: https://coloradosun.com/2026/03/06/parks-and-wildlife-commission-accepts-petition-to-ban-colorado-fur-sales-in-embarrassing-out-of-control-meeting/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For a lot of farmers in Colorado, and across the country, insecticides known as neonicotinoids, or neonics, have been a game changer. But what's been a breakthrough for some has been a nightmare for others. Neonics are being blamed for die-offs in domestic bees and native pollinators, and there's growing concern over their potential impacts on human health as well. This year, some Democratic lawmakers proposed a bold step to reduce the chemicals' use in Colorado; they wanted farmers to get something like a prescription to be allowed to use neonic-treated seeds.CPR's Bente Birkeland and Rae Solomon discuss what those lawmakers tried to do, and why they faced such fierce opposition from the get go.Read our coverage: Farmers bristle as state lawmakers weigh the future of a ubiquitous pesticide Democrats' bill to control pesticides that threaten pollinators dies at statehouse Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Funding for the Alliance is provided in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. Sound design and engineering by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner. Megan Verlee is the executive producer.

This week, we're in Colorado discussing the state's most prolific serial killer. Then we'll talk about a disgruntled employee.Buckle up and join us on this dark and twisted ride through the Centennial State.Be sure to subscribe on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and leave a review, or email us at unitedstatesofmurder@gmail.comFollow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!Sources: Vincent Groves Wikipedia, Douglas County Sheriff's Office, People v. Groves, Denver Gazette, Rhonda Marie Fisher - The Independent, The Colorado Sun, 1993 Aurora, Colorado Shooting, People v. Nathan DunlapMusic by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠