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Read more: https://coloradosun.com/2025/08/27/colorado-special-session-what-happened/ A lot happened during the very tense, six-day special legislative session in Colorado that wrapped up last week. The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul was on Purplish with Bente Birkeland of CPR News and Lucas Brady Woods of KUNC to break it all down. Purplish is a production of CPR News and the Colorado Capitol News Alliance. The Sun is a member of the alliance. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The giant tax-cuts-and-spending package passed by Congressional Republicans will have major ramifications for every state in the country, but Colorado is one of the first place it's really being felt. Thanks to the state's unusual way of handling its finances, the federal tax cuts immediately threw Colorado's finances way out of whack.That was the main reason lawmakers recently came back to the Capitol in August for a high temperature, high stakes special session. But grueling fights over AI regulations and a painful public confrontation between House leaders at times made the budget debates feel like a secondary concern.CPR's Bente Birkeland, The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul and KUNC's Lucas Brady Woods discuss the bills that did, and did not, make it past the finish line over the six-day special legislative session. They also dig into the growing chasm between the two caucuses in the House, and what it could mean for  the regular session in the new year. Read CCNA special session coverage: From CPR News: Colorado House condemns former GOP lawmaker for unprofessional behavior From The Colorado Sun: What the Colorado legislature did during its special session to tackle a $750M budget hole From KUNC News: Colorado Democrats move to protect SNAP benefits and Planned Parenthood care From The Colorado Sun: Colorado lawmakers abandon special session effort to tweak AI law, will push back start date to June 2026 From CPR News: Are legislative special sessions even special any more? 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 and its editor is Megan Verlee, sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner.

A myth-busting interview: Cloud seeding with Chief Meteorologist Kenny Miller. Would you feel comfortable renting someone's personal vehicle? I share my Turo experience, and how livestock producers are rocking music to fight off wolves Season 5, Episode 250 Interview With Meteorologist Kenny Miller: The Truth About Cloud Seeding & Cloud Modifications We've heard people blame cloud seeding for everything from droughts to flooding via social media. Now it was time to break down Cloud Seeding: What Is It, and What Does It Do? First, What Is Cloud Seeding, Really? Meet KX News Chief Meteorologist Kenny Miller, who explained cloud seeding as a weather modification method that encourages rainfall or can reduce hail size by introducing silver iodide into storm clouds. The thought process is to help increase moisture to avoid drought by squeezing just a little bit more rain from smaller rain cloud systems. North Dakota Cloud Modification Project Cloud Seeding or Could Modification began in North Dakota in 1962, and is considered the longest running project in the United States. According to Miller, injecting the clouds in a drought scenario has the possibility of taking a 1" rainfall total to 1.10" or in a hail threat situation a 2" hail stone could be reduced to a 1" size for example. Reference: https://www.kxnet.com/news/local-news/cloud-seeding-what-is-it-and-what-does-it-do/ Debunking the Common Myths Myth: It steals rain from other areas. → Nope. Clouds either rain or they don't—seeding just improves efficiency. Myth: It causes droughts. → False. There's no evidence linking seeding to large-scale climate effects. Myth: It's some secret government program. → Also false. It's publicly funded and reported in local communities. Why Turo Made Me Ditch the Traditional Rental Car Hassle Let's be honest—traditional rental car agencies feel like mini DMVs. You land after a long flight, stand in line for 45 minutes, only to find out they “ran out of mid-size cars.” Sound familiar? Transparent Pricing, No Games No counter. No clipboard. No upcharges for floor mats. Turo.com Unlike big agencies, there were no surprise fuel policies, upgrade pitches, or fees for returning early. I chose the exact car I wanted, paid upfront, and had the option for full insurance through the app. Stress-free and cheaper. **REMEMBER: ALWAYS check with your own Auto Insurance Policy Agent as to what your coverage is when it comes to renting ANY vehicles. In my most recent Turo.com rental experience, the All-Star Host delivered said vehicle On-Time and made Drop-Off super easy!! The vehicle owner even gave our party a free ride to the airport that saves us another $20+ Uber ride! My Review on Turo.com: Rebecca W. • August 7, 2025 Awesome!! Clean, on-time. Dropped off the car off with easy meet up directions at the casino we were staying. AND then met us at the end of our rental, offering to drive us to the airport!!! Will absolutely rent from again! AC/DC Blasts Away Wolf Attacks on U.S. Cattle Ranches & Farms In an unexpected twist, American cattle ranchers and farmers are using music from rock legends AC/DC to protect their herds from gray wolf attacks. Since the reintroduction of gray wolves in 1995, their populations have thrived, but their return has also led to a rise in cattle deaths across several states. To combat this, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has been using drones equipped with speakers to play AC/DC hits like “Thunderstruck” and “Blue on Black,” alongside movie clips to drive wolves away from livestock. The drones are fitted with heat-seeking cameras to track wolves at night, and the loud sounds effectively disperse the predators. The technique has proven successful, reducing attacks in areas like southwestern Oregon, where wolf attacks dropped from nearly one every other night to less than one a month. Despite these efforts, however, wolf attacks on livestock continue, with dozens of cattle killed in states like California, Washington, and Colorado like we just mentioned. In California, 27 calves were killed in just two months earlier this year, costing ranchers millions of dollars in lost livestock and state reimbursements. Livestock producers are increasingly concerned that their livelihoods are under threat, especially as federal protections for wolves remain in place, limiting the ability to control their numbers. As a result, some lawmakers are pushing to remove the gray wolf from the endangered species list, giving states more authority to manage wolf populations and protect agriculture. With the stakes higher than ever, farmers and ranchers are calling for real solutions that protect their herds and their way of life. After all, protecting livestock is not just about economics—it's about ensuring the survival of a centuries-old way of life that feeds and sustains communities across the nation. Reference: https://ca.news.yahoo.com/hells-bells-america-cattle-farms-183321858.html Colorado Plans to Kill Additional Wolf After Cattle Deaths We've been following stories of how landowners and livestock producers are being impacted by the ever increasing wolf pack relocations and reintroductions  in some areas of the country.  According to CPR News, the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is set to kill at least one more wolf from the Copper Creek Pack in Pitkin County after a calf was killed by the pack near Aspen in July. This follows a string of attacks on livestock, including eight confirmed kills in the area since the pack's relocation last winter. Wildlife officials confirmed the calf's death as a wolf kill on July 18, noting evidence that wolves had injured the animal before it died. Despite several attempts to locate the wolves, CPW staff have faced challenges due to difficult terrain. The decision to kill another wolf is part of ongoing efforts to manage the Copper Creek Pack, which was reintroduced into Colorado in late 2023. This pack has been problematic, causing continued damage to local ranchers despite the agency's attempts to manage them, including removing a young male wolf in May. Ranchers like Tom Harrington say the only solution may be relocating or lethally removing the entire pack. Reference: https://www.aspenpublicradio.org/environment/2025-08-04/state-plans-to-kill-additional-wolf-due-to-continued-cattle-deaths OUTDOORS FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS We want to hear from you! If you have any questions, comments, or stories to share about bighorn sheep, outdoor adventures, or wildlife conservation, don't hesitate to reach out. Call or text us at 305-900-BEND (305-900-2363), or send an email to BendRadioShow@gmail.com. Stay connected by following us on social media at Facebook/Instagram @thebendshow or by subscribing to The Bend Show on YouTube. Visit our website at TheBendShow.com for more exciting content and updates! https://thebendshow.com/ https://www.facebook.com/thebendshow WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS Jeff ‘Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca ‘BEC' Wanner are passionate news broadcasters who represent the working ranch world, rodeo, and the Western way of life. They are also staunch advocates for the outdoors and wildlife conservation. As outdoorsmen themselves, Tigger and BEC provide valuable insight and education to hunters, adventurers, ranchers, and anyone interested in agriculture and conservation. With a shared love for the outdoors, Tigger & BEC are committed to bringing high-quality beef and wild game from the field to your table. They understand the importance of sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of your labor, and making memories in the great outdoors. Through their work, they aim to educate and inspire those who appreciate God's Country and life on the land. United by a common mission, Tigger & BEC offer a glimpse into the life beyond the beaten path and down dirt roads. They're here to share knowledge, answer your questions, and join you in your own success story. Adventure awaits around the bend. With The Outdoors, the Western Heritage, Rural America, and Wildlife Conservation at the forefront, Tigger and BEC live this lifestyle every day. To learn more about Tigger & BEC's journey and their passion for the outdoors, visit TiggerandBEC.com. https://tiggerandbec.com/

House Republicans sharing locker room jokes about a Democratic colleague's outfit in a group chat. A former Democratic senator charged with a felony for allegedly forging letters of defense in an ethics probe. A representative accused of bullying and harassing women before taking office.Workplace misconduct at the Colorado State Capitol isn't new. But this year has contained more allegations and revelations than usual.Nearly a decade since the #MeToo movement led lawmakers to adopt new policies and protections for those who serve in, and work with, the legislature, some are questioning whether those efforts are due for an update.CPR's Bente Birkeland, The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul and The Denver Post's Seth Klamann have all covered various aspects of workplace conditions at the State Capitol. They discuss the efforts the legislature has taken in recent years to improve circumstances and what lawmaker misconduct means for governance, especially now, on the cusp of a special session.Read their reporting: In private group chat, GOP lawmakers made crude jokes about a Democratic colleague's clothing A Colorado lawmaker charged gas to his campaign. Then he asked taxpayers to reimburse his mileage Two women accuse Republican state lawmaker of making unwanted sexual advances. He denies the allegations A Colorado lawmaker charged gas to his campaign. Then he asked taxpayers to reimburse his mileage Colorado House member faced investigation over ignored harassment complaint, aide mistreatment Colorado lawmaker faces ‘bullying' claims from past Larimer County post, complaint from fellow legislator Democratic lawmaker apologizes for Trump tweet, while others debate role of rhetoric in inflaming violence Lawmakers and lobbyists accuse Steve Lebsock of sexual harassment; speaker calls for his resignation 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 and its editor is Megan Verlee, sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. The theme music is by Brad Turner.

There's a secure room in the State Capitol filled with the lost treasures of generations of Coloradans: baseball cards, war medals, even a large yellow diamond ring. Unclaimed property that has come into the custody of the state over the decades. All told, Colorado holds around $2 billion in unclaimed assets, some physical, but even more in the form of abandoned accounts, uncashed checks and overlooked tax refunds. Colorado's Treasury Department is tasked with returning assets to their rightful owners. But the fund is also an attractive target for lawmakers looking to pay programs in the face of a cash-strapped state budget.CPR's Bente Birkeland and CPR's Stephanie Wolf look at how the fund is intended to work, what it takes to reclaim property and why lawmakers dipping into it can be a messy situation. 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.This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner.

After a lot of back and forth, Republicans in Congress have passed President Trump's mega tax and spending package, aka the “One, Big Beautiful Bill.” At almost a thousand pages, the law fulfills a range of Republican campaign promises, from protecting tax cuts to turbo charging immigration enforcement. But many Democrats have called its cuts to programs like Medicaid and food aid 'cruel.' And now, state lawmakers will have to grapple with what the new reality means for Colorado's safety net.CPR's Bente Birkeland and CPR's Caitlyn Kim bring this all home, diving into the many ways the law represents a shift in direction for U.S. policy and priorities and how people will feel it in Colorado. CPR health reporter John Daley joins to discuss the implications on healthcare, in particular the cuts to Medicaid and the more immediate effects on the Affordable Care Act insurance marketplace.Further reading: Congressional Republicans defy expectations and send megabill to Trump The federal government temporarily cut taxes on tips and overtime. What does that mean for Colorado state taxes? One big beautiful special session? Colorado lawmakers still aren't sure Colorado health insurance rates expected to skyrocket after budget bill slashes health spending Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains resumes scheduling for patients enrolled in Medicaid, for 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. Funding for the Alliance is provided in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner.

Voters in Douglas County are deciding whether to become a home rule county. With ballots due June 24, the issue is stirring up a lot of strong feelings, amidst competing claims about what it would mean for this fast-growing part of Colorado. County commissioners say home rule status would give Douglas County more legal standing to fight back against Democratic policies coming out of the State Capitol. But the experience of Colorado's only two existing home rule counties shows that home rule is more complicated, and less far reaching than they may hope.On this episode of Purplish, CPR's Stephanie Wolf joins CPR's Bente Birkeland to break down home rule: from how the idea got its start in an armed conflict on the steps of Denver's city hall, to the role it's playing today in the fight over housing policy.You can read the full story 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. Funding for the Alliance is provided in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music was composed by Brad Turner. 

2020 was an extraordinary year for the Colorado legislature. COVID-19 forced lawmakers to break halfway through session. They returned to work in May with a short list of priorities: balance the budget and respond to the pandemic. But almost immediately, the Capitol became the epicenter of protests over the killings of George Floyd and other Black people at the hands of police. The chants of “Black lives matter” outside the statehouse walls pushed lawmakers to take up the issue of police reform that summer. They ultimately wrote and passed an ambitious bipartisan bill, which included body camera requirements and deadly force use limits. The governor signed into law within weeks.CPR's Bente Birkeland looks at what made this major piece of police accountability legislation possible and, along with CPR's Ben Markus, examines the law's impact in the five years since.Read more: How protests over George Floyd's death led Colorado to rewrite its rules for policingPurplish 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. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner. Additional reporting in this episode from Allison Sherry and broadcast tape came from NPR and CBS News Colorado. Special thanks to KDUR at Fort Lewis College for allowing us to record in their studio.

State lawmakers have bid adieu to the Colorado State Capitol — for now. But lots of questions remain. For example, what's next for Colorado's controversial artificial intelligence law? What about federal spending cuts? Will state lawmakers have to return to Denver before next January to absorb changes from Washington? And the big question: where is Governor Jared Polis on all of this?After so much Polis talk on Purplish this year, this is a chance to hear from the governor himself. Polis spoke with The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul during the the Sun's 2025 Legislative Session Recap, a live event held at The University of Denver on May 15, 2025. This episode, hosted by CPR's Bente Birkeland, includes excerpts from that conversation, as well as a discussion about the hot issues of the session with Senate President James Coleman, a Democrat from Denver, and House Speaker Julie McCluskie, a Democrat from Dillon. They address the moments of tension between the legislature and governor this session, TABOR reform, the potential impacts of proposed federal Medicaid cuts and more.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. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner. Special thanks to The Colorado Sun for partnering on this episode and the technical crew at DU for recording it.

Last week, The Colorado Sun hosted an event at the University of Denver recapping the state's 2025 legislative session. On today's podcast, we're featuring an excerpt of that event. Colorado Sun political reporter Jesse Paul and Megan Verlee, public affairs editor at Colorado Public Radio, interviewed Colorado Senate President James Coleman and House Speaker Julie McCluskie live at DU. The Sun and CPR News are partners through the Colorado Capitol News Alliance. Learn more: https://coloradosun.com/2025/05/09/colorado-legislature-2025-themes/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The first 100 days of President Trump's second time as president is seen by many as a good indicator of what is to come. Early on, he set out his agenda to be tough on immigration, reduce the size of government and overhaul education. How has this affected Coloradans so far? CPR News  journalists explain how Trump's policies are changing lives in Colorado.Hosted by Caitlyn Kim.   Reported by Caitlyn Kim, Allison Sherry, Sarah Mulholland, Jenny Brundin, John Daley and Bente Birkland.  Edited by Jo Erickson, and Megan Verlee.   The executive producers are Kevin Dale and Rachel Estabrook.   Find more information about Trump's impacts on Colorado here.  For more episodes of Colorado In Depth, follow the show in your podcast feed. Colorado in Depth is a production of Colorado Public Radio, which is part of the NPR Network.

The first 100 days of President Trump's second time as president is seen by many as a good indicator of what is to come. Early on, he set out his agenda to be tough on immigration, reduce the size of government and overhaul education. How has this affected Coloradans so far? CPR News  journalists explain how Trump's policies are changing lives in Colorado.Hosted by Caitlyn Kim.   Reported by Caitlyn Kim, Allison Sherry, Sarah Mulholland, Jenny Brudin, John Daley and Bente Birkland.  Edited by Jo Erickson, and Megan Verlee   The executive producers are Kevin Dale and Rachel Estabrook   Find more information about Trump's impacts on Colorado here.  For more episodes of Colorado In Depth, follow the show in your podcast feed. Colorado in Depth is a production of Colorado Public Radio, which is part of the NPR Network.

State lawmakers took it right down to the wire on some of the biggest issues of the 2025 legislative session, including immigration, artificial intelligence, labor unions, rights for transgender Coloradans and rideshare safety. While some are poised to become law, others crashed and burned in the final stretch. And a few made it over the finish line, but are likely headed to a veto at the hand of the governor. CPR's Bente Birkeland, KUNC's Lucas Brady Woods and The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul come full circle on the various issues they discussed all session long, including policies that got settled earlier in the year, like the gun bills. We also check back in with the first-time lawmakers we met early in the session, and learn how things went for them, on the path from day one to day 120.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. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner. Special thanks to CCNA editor Chas Sisk, who helped get the Alliance up and running and heads back home now that the regular legislative session has wrapped.

Lawmakers got behind a bill this session that would have required social media companies like Snapchat, Facebook and Instagram to do more about illegal activity on their platforms. It was a significant policy change, and it seemed poised for success, passing the legislature with broad bipartisan support in both chambers. But then the bill hit the governor's desk, where Polis, concerned about its potential impacts on privacy and free speech, pulled out his veto stamp.What happened next was a rare -- and somewhat surprising -- showdown between two branches of government, and a window into the complex politics that surround the power of the veto.CPR's Bente Birkeland and The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul examine how it all went down and what this moment could mean looking ahead, as Colorado's Democratic majority at the statehouse appears to be increasingly willing to challenge Polis during his waning time in office.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. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner.

From tariffs to immigration, the Department of Government Efficiency, and an avalanche of executive actions and policies, President Donald Trump's first 100 days have been a whirlwind.In a special episode of Purplish, recorded before a live audience at the Buell Public Media Center in Denver, two lawmakers — from different parties, different chambers and different capitols — share their perspectives and insights on this moment in American politics. CPR's Bente Birkeland and CPR's Caitlyn Kim interview U.S. Democratic Rep. Joe Neguse, who represents Colorado's 2nd Congressional District, and Republican state Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer, whose seat is in Weld and Larimer counties. They dive into the many ripple effects of Trump's first 100 days on Colorado, covering topics like federal funding cuts, trade policy, state's rights, Trump's immigration crackdown, and, of course, the country's rapidly evolving political climate.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. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner. Rocky Mountain PBS partnered on this episode and hosted the live event.

Colorado already has numerous laws in place to protect the rights of immigrants. But as President Donald Trump takes unprecedented steps to carry out his campaign promise of mass deportations, Democratic state lawmakers believe those protections might no longer be enough. They've introduced an immigration bill that expands and hones numerous policies in direct response to the White House's crackdown. But state Republicans say their colleagues are overstepping and risk straining state resources further. CPR's Bente Birkeland and KUNC's Lucas Brady Woods dig into what the proposal would do and what it means to potentially pass something like this in the midst of strong sentiments among voters and politicians, both for and against immigrant protections. They're later joined by CPR's Allison Sherry to learn what she's seen happening on the ground in Colorado while reporting on ICE raids and arrests.  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. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey.  Additional reporting for this episode came from Denverite's Kevin Beaty. Our theme music is by Brad Turner.

At a time when the federal government is rolling back rights and recognition for transgender Americans, Colorado is moving to expand its protections in a number of areas, including medical care, harassment, death certificates and more. Democratic state lawmakers and proponents say they want to ensure certain rights for the state's transgender community get the protection of law. But opponents, including GOP lawmakers, argue the proposals go beyond equality. CPR's Bente Birkeland and KUNC's Lucas Brady Woods look at the various legislative efforts before Colorado lawmakers this session, how the debates are shaping up at the statehouse and what this could mean for trans Coloradans, against the backdrop of anti-trans rhetoric and actions increasing on the federal level.  And if you've ever wanted to see the Purplish team in action, here is your chance: we're hosting a live taping of the show, the evening of Tuesday, April 22, in Denver. Find all the details, and get your tickets, 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. Funding for the Alliance is provided in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner.

American politics are in a moment of major upheaval: a Republican president and GOP-controlled Congress are reshaping the federal government and expanding the limits of executive power. At the same time, federal Democrats are struggling with how to win back voters who feel their party has failed to deliver. And even as Republicans have this moment on the national stage, Colorado's GOP party is trying to catch up, hoping a new leader can bring some unity — and less havoc — for Republicans in the state.CPR's Bente Birkeland and The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul examine what new leadership could mean for the future of Colorado's Republican party. Then CPR's Caitlyn Kim joins to dig into how Colorado's Democratic members of Congress are looking to redirect the party ahead of the midterms.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. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner.

A variety of factors have strained the state's finances as of late, and that meant state lawmakers had to find more than a billion dollars in savings in order to balance the state budget this session. Many legislators described the process as painful, with big-ticket items up for cuts, including Medicaid and K-12 education. And the hand wringing over the toughest decisions, in the end, led to delays on finalizing the spending package, aka “the long bill.”CPR's Bente Birkeland and The Colorado Sun's Brian Eason discuss the powerful body tasked with deciding where to pull back spending, the Joint Budget Committee; what were the most difficult choices before them in this tight budget year; and what it all could mean for Coloradans.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. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner.

Cities of a certain size in Colorado have to allow more density, because of a suite of new state development mandates. But several cities, like Westminster, Colorado Springs and Arvada, are pushing back. In some cases, they have said, flat out, that they do not intend to comply with some of the laws. Historically, local governments in Colorado and across the nation have had domain over the rules that shape their growth, so at the heart of this conflict are objections over the loss of local control.CPR's Bente Birkeland and Nathaniel Minor explain what these new laws, some of which take effect as soon as this summer, do; what the rub is for some Colorado cities; and what a potential legal standoff could mean for how Coloradans live and move through the state.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. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner. Special thanks to KDNK in Glenwood Springs, which made its studios available for the recording of this episode.

Colorado lawmakers are just past the halfway point of this year's legislative session. That means it's crunch time, with plenty of big, controversial bills still in play on guns, labor, housing and other topics. And on top of all that — the biggest task before lawmakers is finding more than $1 billion in budget savings in order to keep state spending in balance.It's been a busy few months at the statehouse, and CPR's Bente Birkeland, KUNC's Lucas Brady Woods and The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul have been there for all of it. From people to policy, the three reporters sum up what's happened thus far. They also dig into the current going ons under the Gold Dome, and look ahead at what big fights and legislation lay ahead in the not-too-distant future.Catch up of past episodes that delve deeper into some of the legislation discussed in our mid-session check in: An assault weapons ban by any other name… The billion-dollar budget hole Vacancy appointments get lots of lawmakers to the capitol. Is it time for a change? Life as a new state lawmaker 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. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner.

As of late February, 1,407 people in Colorado are waiting for DNA results from their sexual assault cases -- some of them for more than a year. Without those results, criminal investigations can stall out and victims are left in a difficult state of limbo. Colorado lawmakers have taken up the issue this legislative session — and one of their own is a part of this backlog.CPR's Bente Birkeland and RMPBS' Andrea Kramar examine the factors that have bogged down testing, how lawmakers and officials are trying to fix it, and the human toll of it all.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. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner.

A lot of Colorado lawmakers got their foot in the door at the statehouse not through the ballot box, but through a side door, a vacancy committee. State lawmakers leave office early for all sorts of reasons — some get new jobs or retire, occasionally people resign amidst scandal. This session, roughly 25% landed their House and Senate jobs that way. But in recent years, there's been grumbling about the vacancy committee process, with many calling it “undemocratic” and saying it's time for reform.CPR's Bente Birkeland, KUNC's Lucas Brady Woods and The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul dig into how the process works, why it's firing up people on both sides of the aisle and what kinds of changes are being considered.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. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner.

Nearly a third of Colorado's 65 House members are new to the statehouse this year. They come from all walks of life and bring a variety of experiences to their new jobs, which, in the end, will likely shape the policy proposals they bring to the chamber floor. It's a demanding job, with a steep learning curve.On this episode, CPR's Bente Birkeland and KUNC's Lucas Brady Woods introduce us to two new legislators, from very different backgrounds — Rep. Dusty Johnson, a Republican from Fort Morgan, and Rep. Yara Zokaie, a Democrat from Fort Collins. They share what drove them to public service, how they are adjusting to their new jobs and titles, and how their personal experiences influence their legislative priorities. And here's something to add to your calendar: CPR is about to launch a new podcast designed to keep you up to date on the state each weekday -- and you can already get a sneak peek! Join us at a listening event at CPR's future headquarters in Denver on February 25 by signing up at this link.Purplish's producer is Stephanie Wolf. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner.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.

Here's a mystery: Colorado's economy is healthy. It's unemployment rate is low and its tax collections are healthy. So why are lawmakers looking at a recession-sized budget gap? And just as importantly: where are they going to find the savings to close it?CPR's Bente Birkeland and The Colorado Sun's Brian Eason explore the colliding circumstances that got Colorado into this situation, and talk about the hard choices lawmakers must face as they craft next year's spending plan.CPR is about to launch a new podcast designed to keep you up to date each weekday -- and you can get a sneak peek! Join us at a listening event at CPR's future headquarters in Denver on February 25 by signing up at this link.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.This episode of Purplish was edited by Stephanie Wolf and Megan Verlee and produced by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music was composed by Brad Turner.

Democratic lawmakers say they're getting serious about enforcing Colorado's ban on high-capacity ammunition magazines. But their solution would take a wide range of firearms off the shelves of gun stores statewide, including some of the most popular varieties of semi-automatics.Past efforts to ban so-called assault rifles have failed, but this year's bill debuted with an unprecedented level of support. Still, it's future is far from certain.CPR's Bente Birkeland, KUNC's Lucas Brady Woods and The Colorado Sun's Jesse Paul explain what the bill would do, and why -- if it ultimately becomes law -- it would be one of the most sweeping gun restrictions in the nation.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.This episode of Purplish was edited by Stephanie Wolf and Megan Verlee and produced by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music was composed by Brad Turner.

Colorado was once the scene of guerilla warfare over labor organizing. This year's fight at the State Capitol isn't as bloody, but it could have far-reaching consequences for Colorado workers.At issue is an 1943 law that makes it harder for workplaces to fully unionize. The last attempt to repeal it died in a surprise veto from a Democratic governor. Is this year's effort headed for the same fate?Hosts Bente Birkeland from CPR News and Jesse Paul of the Colorado Sun dive into the Labor Peace Act: how it works,  where it came from and why labor thinks this is the year to have this fight.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.This episode of Purplish was edited by Megan Verlee and produced by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music was composed by Brad Turner.

Before they can get to the fun stuff -- passing laws and debating policy -- Colorado's legislators spend the start of each session sitting through hours (and hours, and hours) of presentations from all the departments and agencies they oversee, going into exhaustive detail on the work they do. A lot of times, these hearings are long on slide decks and short on answers. but lawmakers say, when done right, they can be a powerful tool for transparency and accountability.Hosts Bente Birkeland from CPR News and Lucas Brady Woods from KUNC explore how these hearings got started, and what it takes for them to live up to their full potential.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.This episode of Purplish was edited by Jo Erickson and Megan Verlee and produced by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music was composed by Brad Turner. 

From cute kids and ceremonial photos to the peaceful democratic transfer of power, the opening weeks of the 119th Congress have managed to avoid the drama that marked the start of the 117th and the 118th. But that's not to say there's not a lot going on. Colorado has three new congressmen trying to settle in, at the same time one of its congresswomen is working to change how the House operates.Host Bente Birkeland talks with CPR News' D.C. reporter Caitlyn Kim about what she's seen and heard around the Capitol as the new Congress gets to work.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.This episode of Purplish was edited by Jo Erickson and Megan Verlee and produced by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music was composed by Brad Turner.

Before state lawmakers hit the gas on their new session, we look over its opening days. In the House, strains of national politics wove themselves into long-standing traditions in new ways, while in the Senate, the first few bills illuminate an ambitious Democratic agenda on guns and voting. Plus, why some Democrats left the State of the State address upset with Gov. Jared Polis.Hosts Bente Birkeland, of CPR News, and KUNC's state capital reporter Lucas Brady Woods are your guides through all the dramatic moments as the session gets underway. 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.This episode of Purplish was edited by Jo Erickson and Megan Verlee and produced by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music was composed by Brad Turner.

 From increasing Colorado's stock of starter homes to how the state will cooperate with -- or buck -- the incoming Trump Administration, Governor Jared Polis goes in-depth after his State of the State speech. Then, a drought of more than 3,000 days ends as the Denver Broncos return to the NFL playoffs. A former player rates their chances. Also, Colorado Wonders about cowboy boot etiquette. And, Colorado Matters says adieu to a legendary journalist. Michelle P. Fulcher is retiring. 

Fourteen statewide issues crowd the ballot this fall. Our public affairs team explains each of the measures in “Purplish.” CPR's podcast about politics and policy. Then, the personal journey of a CPR News host's decision to reclaim his birth name. 

This week, the Colorado GOP sent out an email with the subject line, “God Hates Pride.” The email, containing a picture of a laser-eyed Jesus over a pride flag with the phrase “God Hates Flags”, saw a lot of pushback online — even from within the party. One of the most outspoken critics of the email is Valdamar Archuleta, a gay Republican running to represent Denver in Congress. In a video posted to X, Archuleta condemns the email and rejects the Colorado GOP's endorsement of his campaign. He joins host Bree Davies to talk about why he felt the email went too far and whether he still feels welcome in his own party. Bree mentioned a CPR News story on the Colorado GOP's attack on Pride Month; she also talked about the myths around statistics of people who actually perpetrate sex crimes against children. 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 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 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

Colorado is home to one of the largest medical trials for psilocybin, the compound in magic mushrooms. One young mom in Denver, who has cancer, is among the first wave of patients to see if the therapy can help her reduce her anxiety and face the prospect that her illness may be terminal. What she and the researchers discover could help people with depression, PTSD, addiction and other conditions. Colorado in Depth is a podcast of special reporting, documentary news and investigations from CPR News. Follow the podcast for reporting from Colorado's Front Range, the Four Corners, the Eastern Plains and the mountains. Reported and written by Andrew Kenney Edited by Rachel Estabrook Produced, mixed and sound designed by Luis Antonio Perez Executive producer: Kevin Dale Thanks also to CPR's Lauren Antonoff Hart, Andrea Dukakis, Sam Brasch, Jo Erickson and Hayley Sanchez Music by Blue Dot Sessions and Universal Production Music Follow Andrew Kenney @AndyKnny Follow CPR News @NewsCPR Show your commitment to independent journalism by making a donation today. Colorado in Depth is a production of Colorado Public Radio.

Tina Peters goes on trial in February. The former Mesa County clerk faces criminal charges for using her position overseeing local elections to empower a movement that falsely believes U.S. voting systems are rigged to steal elections. Peters' scheme and her evolution from trusting the election system to trying to subvert it from the inside is a warning sign for 2024. This is an installment of Colorado in Depth, a podcast of documentary news, investigations and special reporting from CPR News. Follow the show for stories from the plains to the mountain, the Four Corners to the Front Range. Hosts and reporters: Bente Birkeland and Stina Sieg Producer and editor: Rachel Estabrook Editor: Megan Verlee Scoring and mixing: Shane Rumsey Executive producers: Kevin Dale and Brad Turner Additional support from Caitlyn Kim, Joe Wertz, Anthony Cotton and Nathaniel Minor Artwork by Mia Rincón Music by Blue Dot Sessions

Across the U.S.-Mexico border, the Colorado River once flowed freely into the ocean. When the freshwater and saltwater met, it created an explosion of life in the desert. But most of that lushness dried up when people used up the river. We meet people who have worked for decades to restore parts of the delta's lost wetlands. They created a historic agreement between the two countries that designates some river water for the environment. That means that sometimes, this dry delta flows with water again, and occasionally, the river meets the ocean. The final installment in our 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visit cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Michael Elizabeth Sakas Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Additional Production: Erin Jones and Rachel Estabrook In-Country Interpreter: Jesús Galaz Tape Translator: Carlos Aguilar Voiceovers: Jean Inaba and Jessie Jacobs Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Rachel Estabrook, Chuck Murphy, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas, Rebekah Romberg Thanks also to Kevin Beaty, Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Shawn Lucero, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

Crops like alfalfa that feed cows are the biggest user of the Colorado River, to satisfy our cravings for nachos and burgers. Cutting back on farms' water use is the biggest way we can live in a drier West. One Indigenous farm manager is trying to do it — to grow food with much less water. His story reveals how to get other farms to be more efficient, too, in part by changing what and how they grow. Part 9 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visit cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Michael Elizabeth Sakas Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Rachel Estabrook, Chuck Murphy, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

If we turned off every tap in every city in the southwest, we still wouldn't solve the Colorado River crisis. That's because 80 percent of the water goes to agriculture — to the lettuce and melons in your produce section, the half-and-half you put in your coffee every morning. Those farmers have some of the preeminent rights to the river. So what if the government paid them to keep their water in the river instead? Part 8 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visit cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Michael Elizabeth Sakas Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Rachel Estabrook, Luis Antonio Perez, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

What we pay for water doesn't reflect how scarce it is with climate change. Could cities get people to use less water by charging more for it? Decades ago, Tucson did this, and it worked. But the political consequences may have scared off other cities. Now, in an increasingly dire situation along the Colorado River, what if a bunch of cities priced water differently, to change our behavior? Part 7 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visited cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Rachel Estabrook Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Rebekah Romberg Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

Americans flush toilets with water that's good enough to drink. We could cut how much water cities need if we reused that water, or flushed without sapping our fresh mountain supplies. From at-home solutions to citywide scale, wastewater reuse and recycling are gaining momentum, and could be on the verge of a breakthrough.  Part 6 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visited cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Rachel Estabrook Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Rebekah Romberg Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

The family of Christian Glass was awarded $19 million after their son was killed by a sheriff's deputy nearly a year ago in Clear Creek County. What goes into a settlement for police misconduct and why can they vary so much? Then, Denverite and CPR News partner with the Denver Post and Denver7 for a debate with Denver's two mayoral candidates, Kelly Brough and Mike Johnston. Later, a beloved woodshop teacher retires. And, remembering the queen of rock-n-roll, Tina Turner.

The family of Christian Glass was awarded $19 million after their son was killed by a sheriff's deputy nearly a year ago in Clear Creek County. What goes into a settlement for police misconduct and why can they vary so much? Then, Denverite and CPR News partner with the Denver Post and Denver7 for a debate with Denver's two mayoral candidates, Kelly Brough and Mike Johnston. Later, a beloved woodshop teacher retires. And, remembering the queen of rock-n-roll, Tina Turner.

Across the country, headlines this week touted a "deal" to save the Colorado River. In this bonus episode, we'll break it down: What you need to know, and what it means for the solutions we're exploring on Parched. Come back next week for our regular storytelling about people and places along the river. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas with Ryan Warner Written by Rachel Estabrook Editors: Erin Jones and Joe Wertz Production and mixing: Rebekah Romberg Theme song by Kibwe Cooper Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Special thanks to Ryan Warner. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

Most people in the West live in cities, and cities can do a lot to change how they use water. We head deep into the glittery, neon heart of Las Vegas. There, under the Bellagio Fountain, we learn that this city of excess is a world leader in water conservation. What is Vegas doing, and how might people who live in other Colorado River cities follow its lead? Part 5 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visited cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Michael Elizabeth Sakas Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Additional Production and Editing: Rachel Estabrook Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

On the beach in Southern California, it's easy to look at the Pacific Ocean and wonder what would happen if we could drink it. It's already happening in some places, and others from Arizona to the California coast want to expand desalination. If big cities there use more of the ocean and less of the Colorado River, would that leave more water for the southwest? Part 4 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visited cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Michael Elizabeth Sakas and Joe Wertz Editors: Rachel Estabrook, Erin Jones Production and Mixing: Rebekah Romberg Additional Production: Emily Williams Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas, Emily Williams Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

What if we could get more water, instead of just living with less? The idea of pulling water from another river, like the Mississippi, has tantalized people in the southwest for decades. We meet a farmer in Arizona who's become today's big champion for this big idea. Also, an engineer in Colorado and someone with an up-close view of the Mississippi explain what it would take to bring more water to the Colorado River states. Part 3 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visited cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Rachel Estabrook and Joe Wertz Editor: Erin Jones Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Rebekah Romberg,  Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

Indigenous tribes lived with the water's flow for thousands of years. Then, they were shut out of decision making about the Colorado River. In this episode, we go to the Jicarilla Apache Reservation to learn what that's meant for tribes, and how it's contributed to the river drying up. We also meet someone from a very different background in Boulder, Colorado. Together these men are urgently trying to do the same thing: Get everybody to the table to come up with solutions together--solutions to serve everyone who depends on the river. Part 2 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visited cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas with Taylar Dawn Stagner Written by Michael Elizabeth Sakas and Taylar Dawn Stagner Editors: Rachel Estabrook, Erin Jones Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Rebekah Romberg,  Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Jeremy Wade Shockley, Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

Lauren Boebert's Q1 fundraising falls far short of Democrat Adam Frisch | Arizona GOP Senate primary shows Kari Lake with wide lead - Blake Masters is at the back of the pack | Colorado Gov Jared Polis attempts to lower housing costs with statewide land use reformsSupport this show and all the work in the Heartland POD universe by going to heartlandpod.com and clicking the link for Patreon, or go to Patreon.com/HeartlandPod to sign up. Alright! Let's get into it: COLORADO NEWSLINE: Frisch with cashBY: CHASE WOODRUFF - APRIL 17, 2023 4:35 PMRepublican U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert has consistently ranked as one of Colorado's top congressional fundraisers since her election in 2020, raking in small-dollar contributions from a national network of grassroots conservative donors.But in her bid to win a third term next year, she may have to overcome an even stronger fundraising effort by her likely Democratic challenger.Adam Frisch, a former Aspen City Council member who lost to Boebert by just 546 votes in the 2022 election, raised more than $1.7 million in the first quarter of 2023 — more than double the amount Boebert raised in the same period, according to Federal Election Commission disclosures.Frisch said in a statement, “I am honored to be receiving the support of so many hardworking Colorado families,” “Boebert's fundraising numbers reaffirm that her days in Congress are numbered because she continues to ignore the needs of her district, and instead prioritizes being a leader of the anger-tainment industry.”If Boebert continues to trail Frisch in fundraising, it would be the first time the far-right representative has been at a financial disadvantage since her successful 2020 primary challenge against five-term GOP Rep. Scott Tipton. Boebert unseated Tipton despite raising just $133,256 to nearly $1 Million raised by Tipton in the first half of 2020.In her bid for reelection last year, Boebert raised nearly $8 million - by far the highest total of any of Colorado's U.S. House candidates. Frisch, who narrowly won a three-way Democratic primary with 42% of the vote, raised $4.4 million from donors, and supplemented that with over $2.2 million in personal loans to his campaign.Boebert was widely projected to win reelection by a comfortable margin in 2022, and neither Republicans nor Democrats spent heavily through super PACs to influence the 3rd District race. But after Frisch's unexpectedly strong performance in a race that triggered Colorado's first congressional recount in 20 years, the stage is set for a blockbuster rematch in 2024.Earlier this month, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee included the 3rd District, which encompasses most of Colorado's Western Slope as well as Pueblo County, on its list of 2024 targets. A poll released by a progressive group last week showed Frisch and Boebert tied at 45% support among likely voters.In what promises to be an unusually high-profile congressional race, both Boebert and Frisch continue to rely on contributions from out-of-state donors. About 63% of Boebert's itemized donations in the first quarter came from contributors outside of Colorado; for Frisch, the figure was 57%.In other U.S. House districts, Democratic Rep. Yadira Caraveo of Thornton, who narrowly defeated Republican state Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer as the first representative of Colorado's new 8th District last year, reported raising $339,307 so far for 2024. Democratic Rep. Brittany Pettersen of Arvada, who won the race to succeed longtime former Rep. Ed Perlmutter in Colorado's 7th district, reporting raising $218,108. THE HILL: Kari Lake holds wide lead in new AZ GOP Senate primary pollBY CAROLINE VAKIL - 04/17/23 12:58 PM ETA poll released by J. L. Partners and shared with The Hill on Monday found former gubernatorial candidate and incessant Trump acolyte Kari Lake receiving 38 percent support among registered Republican and undeclared voters. Lake was followed next by the primary opponent she bested in last year's Republican gubernatorial primary - Karrin Robson - who came in with just 10 percent support.Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb was third at 8 percent, followed by former Arizona Senate candidate Blake Masters with 7 percent, and former state Attorney General candidate Abe Hamadeh with 4 percent. 29 percent said they're undecided.One GOP strategist who requested anonymity to speak candidly said, “If Kari Lake decides to run, it's clear she is not only the front-runner but will run away with the nomination. The GOP establishment would be smart to get behind her right away so we can win Arizona.”The polling comes as Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.) has not yet formally announced whether she will run for reelection, though The Wall Street Journal reported earlier this month that she's gearing up for another run.Democratic Congressman Ruben Gallego has announced a run on the Democratic side, reporting a fundraising haul of $3.7 Million in this year's first quarter - about 75% more than Sen. Sinema's $2.1 Million.The GOP poll found Donald Trump leading Ron DeSantis in Arizona's presidential primary by more than 20 points. CPR NEWS:Gov. Jared Polis thinks density is the magic bullet for high housing costs. Is he right?By Nathaniel Minor· Mar. 31, 2023, 4:00 amIn the nearly hour-long press conference unveiling his sweeping land-use reform bill, Gov. Jared Polis and other supporters used the word “affordable” more than three dozen times. Polis and others promised the bill would lower housing costs around the state by cutting local regulations and allowing developers to build more townhomes and multiplexes in areas currently restricted to single-family homes only.The claim that more building will lead to cheaper rents and lower home prices is explicitly made throughout the 105-page bill as well. But is it true? And how did sprawl get so unaffordable anyway? CPR News read through research papers and spoke with academics to try to answer those questions.First: Local governments in Colorado have long preferred single-family homes.In the early 1900's, The federal government and localities like Denver began to embrace zoning to create a “better arranged, more orderly city” — and protect property values — by explicitly separating residential areas from industrial and commercial development.Denver's first zoning code, adopted in 1925, codified the city's preference for single-family homes by making them the only type of housing allowed in most residential areas. A 1929 city plan called Denver “a city of one-family homes,” and warned of the density of East Coast cities like New York, which was “throttling itself to death.” Colorado planners laid out “dream cities” like Broomfield with meandering streets that conformed to the natural landscape and offered mountain vistas. But by the 1970s, the price of this type of growth was becoming clear. A landmark 1974 federally sponsored study called “The Cost of Sprawl” found the land, pavement, and utilities needed for suburbs and exurbs made them the “most expensive form of residential development.” But in spite of its cost, local governments in the Denver region have continued to embrace sprawl. By 2021, about 80 percent of land zoned for residences only allowed single-family homes according to research led by Carrie Makarewicz, associate professor and chair of the University of Colorado Denver's urban and regional planning department. Research shows that middle-type housing — two- to nine-unit residences, roughly similar to what the new bill would allow — accounted for just 2.2 percent of housing permits issued between 2005 and 2020 in the Denver metro. Multifamily housing also tends to be cheaper than single-family homes in the same community, because they are often smaller, and they make more efficient use of costly land and existing infrastructure, Every Denver metro county has a shortage of small homes, and an excess supply of large homes, in relation to each county's demographics.So will more housing units and higher density help? The new bill would force many local governments in Colorado to allow multifamily housing — from townhomes to multiplexes up to six units — and accessory dwelling units (often called “mother-in-law suites") in all residential zones.The Colorado Municipal League, which represents many of the state's cities and opposes the bill, said the idea that more housing will cause a market-based decline in housing costs, is speculative. But research suggests there's a direct connection between the two. A 2018 review of studies from the New York University Furman Center said “there is a considerable body of empirical research showing that less restrictive land use regulation is associated with lower housing prices.” One study, for example, in Massachusetts found that increases in minimum lot sizes - a precursor to more sprawling development - were followed by significant price increases. Another, using data from 100 cities in Florida, found that putting in more restrictive development regulations decreased land prices, but increased home prices. One study directly linked restrictive local land use regulations to an increase in rates of homelessness. A 2021 UCLA research review found strong evidence that building new market-rate apartments slows down rent increases for nearby existing housing- helping to keep neighborhoods more affordable.Emily Hamilton, senior research fellow at George Mason University cited that cities like Houston, TX - with less restrictive rules on housing tend to be cheaper.“They're making small-lot single-family construction possible on a scale not seen anywhere else in the country. And, they permit tons of multi-family housing,” Hamilton said.Welp, that's it for me! From Denver I'm Sean Diller. Original reporting for the stories in today's show comes from the CPR News, The Hill, Associated Press, and Colorado NewslineThank you for listening! See you next time.

The U.S. southwest is in a water crisis; it's a front line of climate change. This show takes you to places that rely on the Colorado River, to explore what we can do to ensure life in the region as it dries out. In this first episode, we get high up in the Rocky Mountains to see where our water comes from, and see ground zero for our water problems — the Hoover Dam — where we meet someone who predicted this crisis years before it happened. It's all to answer the question: Just how screwed are we? Part 1 of 10. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Rachel Estabrook Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Production Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Rebekah Romberg, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson and Kevin J. Beaty. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

The southwestern United States has been in a drought for more than 20 years. It's created a serious problem for the Colorado River, and tens of millions of people who use water from it. Parched is a podcast about people who rely on the river that shaped the West – and have ideas to save it. Michael Elizabeth Sakas, a water reporter for Colorado Public Radio, takes you on a journey to explore some of the best and boldest ideas to bolster our water supplies. Parched, the new podcast from CPR News, is coming April 18. Follow the show on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.