Colorado Matters

Survivors of sexual assault in Colorado often wait more than a year and a half for DNA results in their cases. Without results, criminal investigations may stall. Purplish looks at how state lawmakers hope to fix this problem. Then, the Justice Department examines the conviction of former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters. And why are Colorado’s forests emitting more carbon than they take in? Plus, tracking illicit drugs through wastewater.

In the eyes of the Trump Administration, trans people do not exist. The president signed an executive order declaring, in part, “it is the policy of the United States to recognize two sexes, male and female.” Reality is more nuanced than that. We get perspective from Rev. Paula Stone Williams, a pastor, therapist, and mayor pro tem of Lyons, Colorado. Then, the sandhill cranes return this weekend to the San Luis Valley. Plus, how USDA cuts are affecting Colorado.

There were hours of testimony, accusations and threats on Capitol Hill as Denver Mayor Mike Johnston defended the city’s actions when it comes to immigration. Johnston was part of a panel of mayors called by Republicans to answer questions about their cities’ immigration policies. Then, churches have historically been places of sanctuary. But in the immigration debate now underway, do they still fit into the discussion? Also, dozens of people have been caught in avalanches this winter in Colorado — we re-share one man’s amazing story of survival.

Colorado confirmed its first COVID case 5 years ago. Today, vaccination rates are flagging, and so are investments in our health. We’ll get a check-up on COVID and what doctors are watching for now. Then, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston testifies in Washington, D.C. about so-called sanctuary cities and immigration. Plus, a Colorado company’s about to make history on the Moon in more ways than one. And, Colorado Wonders about the state’s sugar beet industry.

As Congress debates a budget that slashes spending, there’s concern those cuts could include Medicaid. We talk through the potential impact to patients, community health centers, hospitals — and the state’s economy. Then, doctors say it’s been quite a flu season in Colorado; we’ll ask about treatment and vaccines. Also, it’s Fat Tuesday, but you don’t have to head down South to get a taste of the official sweet treat of Mardi Gras. We’ll take you to an Arvada bakery that’s been serving up king cake for nearly 20 years!

Our coverage of Colorado deepens today with the launch of CPR’s new daily podcast, “Colorado Today.” We share the inaugural episode and meet hosts Bazi Kanani and Arlo Pérez Esquivel. Plus, today is a new state holiday: “Buy Colorado Day.” It elevates supporting local businesses and building Colorado’s brand across the world.

U.S. Rep. Jeff Hurd, (R) answers questions about DOGE, possible Medicaid cuts, relocating the BLM, and the fact that people close to the president have made what appear to be Nazi salutes. Then, boycotts in the digital age. Also, a Colorado Wonders question about property taxes. And a Denver filmmaker is up for an Oscar for “Anuja,” his film about sisterly love amid the trappings of child labor.

Denver International Airport opened 30 years ago this week. We talk with two people who work at DIA who also worked at the old Stapleton Airport, about the big move, the iconic tent roof, the infamous automated baggage system and the ongoing construction. We also speak with former Denver Mayor Wellington Webb on this 30-year milestone. Webb was instrumental in the opening of the airport. He reflects on the challenges, the opportunities, and what the future could hold.