Colorado Matters

Colorado’s economy has been flashing warning signs for a while, but is a recession really on the horizon? Today, the launch of our special report, “Silent Recession,” looking at the numbers driving the state’s economics. Then, the government shutdown has left many nonprofits scrambling to provide assistance for people missing their food benefits — including one here in Colorado that focuses on sharing homemade lasagna made with love. And, do you want to help those in need of food? One local engineer has created an app for that!

Soon enough, Colorado will have new leadership. In 2026, top seats are wide open for the first time in eight years. From the governor, attorney general, secretary of state and treasurer to the U.S. Congress, we take stock of the midterm election with Purplish. Then, new music from the Gasoline Lollipops, which defies musical genres.

He survived the battle of Iwo Jima; 100 year old Jim Blane of Denver reflects on this pivotal moment in World War II and how it affected his life. Then, walking in the victorious footsteps of the 10th Mountain Division which trained in Colorado. Also, veterans with brain injuries and PTSD from combat often have stomach problems too; now researchers in Colorado are exploring new treatment options. And later, the Fall of Saigon fifty years ago shapes an unexpected friendship.

According to Gallup, barely a third of Americans express a great deal or even fair amount of trust in newspapers, TV, and radio. In the 1970s, trust was as high as 72 percent. At Front Range Community College, students meet the press.

We ask Aurora Democrat Jason Crow, who represents Colorado’s 6th Congressional District, if flight reductions will force an end to the government shutdown. Plus, his views on ICE crackdowns and gerrymandering. Then, Jefferson County’s sheriff lobbies for changes she hopes will prevent future mass shootings. Plus, we explore a redevelopment site in Golden that’s unearthing Colorado history.

Growing up in Colorado, John Herrington fell in love with rock climbing. Little did he know that would start his climb to the stars. A citizen of the Chickasaw nation, Herrington is the first Native American to go into space. Then, the impact of federal energy cuts on innovation in Colorado. Also, training and retaining nurses in rural areas. And, Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead.

Colorado voters said yes to propositions LL and MM in Tuesday’s election, to pay for school meals for all; cafeteria workers and local farmers will benefit too. We talk through what’s next with Anya Rose from Hunger Free Colorado. Plus, Denver voters keep a ban on flavored tobacco in place and say yes to a $950 million on bond package to create a “vibrant” Denver. Also, will a shuttered private prison in Walsenburg reopen as an ICE facility? Later, Colorado’s film industry tries to get a foothold at the same time a Colorado town celebrates filmmakers.

ICE agents can detain someone without a warrant under certain conditions. Now a judge will decide if agents are flaunting federal law in Colorado. Then, a noteworthy development with the reintroduction of grey wolves in Colorado. Plus, a farm that honors Native American heritage at the site of much pain. Also, Purplish explores uncovered history hidden inside the state capitol. Second graders in Grand Junction embrace the power of a single act of kindness. And music from Littleton artist Conrad Mata, with a little help from his dad!