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National

GOP LOSES SENATE IN MIDTERMS DEBACLE

The results will be the clearest national test of Trump's second presidency.

Politics & Policy

Republicans lost deep-red Senate seats in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="South Carolina" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/darline-graham-south-carolina-senate-annie-andrews-trump" data-vars-content-id="1a95bc30-01d9-456d-b0bb-f8970f76361a" data-vars-headline="GOP LOSES SENATE IN MIDTERMS DEBACLE" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/darline-graham-south-carolina-senate-annie-andrews-trump" target="_self">South Carolina</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kansas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/kansas-senate-results-marshall-adam-hamilton" data-vars-content-id="1a95bc30-01d9-456d-b0bb-f8970f76361a" data-vars-headline="GOP LOSES SENATE IN MIDTERMS DEBACLE" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/kansas-senate-results-marshall-adam-hamilton" target="_self">Kansas</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Texas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/texas-senate-results-talarico-paxton" data-vars-content-id="1a95bc30-01d9-456d-b0bb-f8970f76361a" data-vars-headline="GOP LOSES SENATE IN MIDTERMS DEBACLE" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/texas-senate-results-talarico-paxton" target="_self">Texas</a>, AP projects, giving Democrats control of the Senate and within reach of control of the House.Why it matters: President Trump made himself the face of the GOP campaign for control. Now his party is losing all over the map, and he&#x27;s distancing himself from the outcome.

Trump says GOP lost because he wasn't on ballot, is "willing to accept" results

As Democrats rack up wins, Trump argues things would've gone differently.

President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="3e14e261-b4b0-4e09-9105-f1715cfc7da3" data-vars-headline="Trump says GOP lost because he wasn&#x27;t on ballot, is &quot;willing to accept&quot; results" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> said Republicans would have won Tuesday&#x27;s midterm elections had he been on the ballot.Why it matters: After <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="raging" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/trump-fox-news-posts-election-night" data-vars-content-id="3e14e261-b4b0-4e09-9105-f1715cfc7da3" data-vars-headline="Trump says GOP lost because he wasn&#x27;t on ballot, is &quot;willing to accept&quot; results" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/trump-fox-news-posts-election-night" target="_self">raging</a> on social media before major races were called, Trump reacted to the results for the first time Tuesday night as a blue wave began to take shape.

House Republicans torch each other over "brutal" midterms debacle

Asked for a vibe check, one member simply texted Axios: "Brutal."

SHREVEPORT, La. — The GOP&#x27;s election-night defeat has unleashed a wave of finger-pointing inside the House Republican conference, with members questioning whether Speaker Mike Johnson or any of the other top deputies can survive next week&#x27;s leadership elections.Why it matters: Johnson spent months insisting Republicans would defy the odds and keep the House. But after losing the majority, he cast the defeat as all but inevitable, an explanation unlikely to satisfy Republicans ready for a new leadership slate.

Talarico flips Texas Senate seat, ending 38-year Democratic drought

The Democrat flipped a longtime GOP stronghold after a bitter primary battle and the nation's most expensive Senate campaigns.

Democrat James <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Talarico" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/houston/2026/10/15/james-talarico-cnn-jubilee-town-hall-ken-paxton-texas-senate" data-vars-content-id="960830a1-7f60-41be-acb4-789dd21147e1" data-vars-headline="Talarico flips Texas Senate seat, ending 38-year Democratic drought" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/houston/2026/10/15/james-talarico-cnn-jubilee-town-hall-ken-paxton-texas-senate" target="_self">Talarico</a> defeated Republican Ken Paxton in Texas&#x27; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="closely watched" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/10/14/texas-poll-talarico-paxton-senate" data-vars-content-id="960830a1-7f60-41be-acb4-789dd21147e1" data-vars-headline="Talarico flips Texas Senate seat, ending 38-year Democratic drought" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/10/14/texas-poll-talarico-paxton-senate" target="_self">closely watched</a> U.S. Senate race, delivering a historic breakthrough for Democrats in a state Republicans have dominated for decades.Why it matters: Talarico&#x27;s victory ends the nation&#x27;s longest Democratic drought in statewide elections and flips a critical Senate seat as Democrats fight for control of the chamber.

A night of historic firsts for the 2026 midterms

The results mark major milestones for representation in American politics.

On a historic <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="election" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/election-results-voting" data-vars-content-id="eabec147-7fea-43bf-9954-5046afa5a227" data-vars-headline="A night of historic firsts for the 2026 midterms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/election-results-voting" target="_self">election</a> night, winners nationwide have broken longstanding barriers, including firsts for race and sexuality. The big picture: The results mark major milestones for representation in American <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="politics " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy" data-vars-content-id="eabec147-7fea-43bf-9954-5046afa5a227" data-vars-headline="A night of historic firsts for the 2026 midterms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy" target="_self">politics </a>as the nation&#x27;s political landscape continues to evolve.

Colorado voter guide: What to know about the candidates and ballot measures

We put together voter guides to get you smarter, faster about your ballot.

Election

Colorado voters face major decisions in the 2026 midterms, from statewide questions to choosing the next governor — and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the stakes are high" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/07/colorado-2026-ballot-stakes" data-vars-content-id="e5e45b27-4eae-4fed-b52b-f5ed7c09be37" data-vars-headline="Colorado voter guide: What to know about the candidates and ballot measures" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/07/colorado-2026-ballot-stakes" target="_self">the stakes are high</a>.We&#x27;re here to help.

Report: Broncos owners spend big on Republicans  

NFL owners spent some $18 million during the midterms, mostly backing Republicans

News

Broncos co-owners <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Greg Penner and Rob Walton" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/10/29/how-taxpayers-could-pay-new-broncos-stadium" data-vars-content-id="c9c0ec13-7599-4dcd-871d-4a2985c07544" data-vars-headline="Report: Broncos owners spend big on Republicans " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/10/29/how-taxpayers-could-pay-new-broncos-stadium" target="_self">Greg Penner and Rob Walton</a> poured more than $9 million into political causes this election cycle, largely backing Republicans.Why it matters: Members of the NFL&#x27;s richest ownership group are flexing their political muscle in the most expensive <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="midterm election in history" data-vars-click-url="https://www.npr.org/2026/10/28/nx-s1-6020547/whos-funding-the-most-expensive-u-s-election-ever" data-vars-content-id="c9c0ec13-7599-4dcd-871d-4a2985c07544" data-vars-headline="Report: Broncos owners spend big on Republicans " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.npr.org/2026/10/28/nx-s1-6020547/whos-funding-the-most-expensive-u-s-election-ever" target="_blank">midterm election in history</a>.

How to hack the time change

Time change brings groggy mornings and more deer during evening commutes.

Your phone knows the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="clocks fall back" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/30/time-change-fall-back-2025" data-vars-content-id="b7663ce5-655b-43eb-81a6-180712ce3d34" data-vars-headline="How to hack the time change" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/30/time-change-fall-back-2025" target="_self">clocks fall back</a> an hour at 2am Sunday. Your brain — not so much.Why it matters: Changing the clock can leave your body feeling jet-lagged — without ever leaving Colorado.

Colorado lawmakers will soon revive anti-surveillance push

A new governor could change fortunes for previously failed restrictions

Colorado lawmakers are preparing another push to rein in police surveillance as privacy concerns revive stalled legislation.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Both candidates" data-vars-click-url="https://www.kunc.org/politics/2026-10-15/why-republican-victor-marx-doesnt-give-a-flying-squirrel-tail-about-gop-establishment-approval" data-vars-content-id="c17c85e1-645f-4f90-baa2-6e3ae9b326d9" data-vars-headline="Colorado lawmakers will soon revive anti-surveillance push" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.kunc.org/politics/2026-10-15/why-republican-victor-marx-doesnt-give-a-flying-squirrel-tail-about-gop-establishment-approval" target="_blank">Both candidates</a> for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="governor" data-vars-click-url="https://www.kunc.org/politics/2026-10-14/democrat-phil-weiser-discusses-guardrails-for-data-centers-and-flock-cameras-how-he-differs-from-jared-polis" data-vars-content-id="c17c85e1-645f-4f90-baa2-6e3ae9b326d9" data-vars-headline="Colorado lawmakers will soon revive anti-surveillance push" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.kunc.org/politics/2026-10-14/democrat-phil-weiser-discusses-guardrails-for-data-centers-and-flock-cameras-how-he-differs-from-jared-polis" target="_blank">governor</a> support tighter oversight — potentially changing the political math for restrictions.

The best new bites at Ball Arena this season 

Dozens of new dishes will be available for Avs and Nuggets games.

Sports

Ball Arena unveiled <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new menu items" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/10/23/best-new-food-ball-arena" data-vars-content-id="e29aa1a4-a86a-428f-809b-e7079809350c" data-vars-headline="The best new bites at Ball Arena this season " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/10/23/best-new-food-ball-arena" target="_self">new menu items</a> Wednesday, including dishes from Denver favorites like Bao Brewhouse, Nola Jane and Wild Taco. Best bites: We picked five dishes worth trying at the next Colorado Avalanche or Denver Nuggets home game this season.

8 new additions to Denver's dining scene

Milanese pizza. Thai street food. Cult-followed smashburgers. And more.

Food and Drink

Milanese pizza. Thai street food. Cult-favorite smashburgers.Here&#x27;s what&#x27;s new and what&#x27;s coming soon around Denver:

Boulder

Jeremy Bloom reinvents X Games from Boulder

The former CU star is building a team-based league to attract a new generation of fans.

The X Games are getting a major makeover under former CU football star and Olympic skier Jeremy Bloom, who&#x27;s reinventing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the action-sports brand" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/12/05/jeremy-bloom-x-games-ceo-colorado" data-vars-content-id="988c1b78-58d9-4fcb-b4dd-98ce21649d86" data-vars-headline="Jeremy Bloom reinvents X Games from Boulder" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/12/05/jeremy-bloom-x-games-ceo-colorado" target="_self">the action-sports brand</a> from Boulder.Why it matters: Bloom is borrowing from Formula 1 and UFC to build a new kind of sports league — and putting Boulder at the center of it.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Stampede unveil colors, bison logo for new UFL team

Our hot take: The brown and orange colors look like a 1970s sofa.

The United Football League unveiled the name and logo for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Colorado Springs&#x27; new pro team" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/colorado-springs/2026/09/23/ufl-football-colorado-springs-2027" data-vars-content-id="daf92338-89ed-4b7d-8f71-d0d77535903a" data-vars-headline="Colorado Stampede unveil colors, bison logo for new UFL team" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/colorado-springs/2026/09/23/ufl-football-colorado-springs-2027" target="_self">Colorado Springs&#x27; new pro team</a>: a charging bison for the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Colorado Stampede" data-vars-click-url="https://www.theufl.com/teams/colorado" data-vars-content-id="daf92338-89ed-4b7d-8f71-d0d77535903a" data-vars-headline="Colorado Stampede unveil colors, bison logo for new UFL team" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.theufl.com/teams/colorado" target="_blank">Colorado Stampede</a>.Yes, but: The colors look like a 1970s sofa. And the Springs didn&#x27;t even make the name — unlike the home cities of every other <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="UFL team" data-vars-click-url="https://www.theufl.com/teams" data-vars-content-id="daf92338-89ed-4b7d-8f71-d0d77535903a" data-vars-headline="Colorado Stampede unveil colors, bison logo for new UFL team" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.theufl.com/teams" target="_blank">UFL team</a>.

10 family-friendly things to do in Colorado this fall

Here's your family-friendly fall bucket list.

Local Brief

Fall can feel like a sprint in Colorado.Why it matters: There&#x27;s only so much time for pumpkins, golden aspens and cider-filled weekends — especially this year, when experts say drought could <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="shorten the leaf-peeping window" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/08/25/colorado-fall-colors-peak-2026" data-vars-content-id="7d03fcc5-e50f-49d0-85ea-0d4c63a9f68c" data-vars-headline="10 family-friendly things to do in Colorado this fall" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/08/25/colorado-fall-colors-peak-2026" target="_self">shorten the leaf-peeping window</a>.

5 Colorado cabins to rent this fall

Sweater weather calls for an escape to the woods.

Fall calls for cozying up in a Colorado cabin.Here are five great getaways with a little something special — like history, hot springs and seriously stunning scenery.

Where doulas are covered by Medicaid

More than half of U.S. states now reimburse for doula care under Medicaid.

Wellness Brief

More than half of U.S. states now reimburse for doula care under Medicaid — a dramatic shift from just a few years ago. By the numbers: 28 states and D.C. are actively reimbursing, according to the National Health Law Program. Before 2020, only Oregon and Minnesota did.

Doulas go mainstream

Research links doula support to lower cesarean rates and fewer preterm births.

Doula care is moving into the mainstream as major insurers expand coverage and more patients incorporate it into pregnancy care. Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Research has linked" data-vars-click-url="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(22)00261-9/fulltext" data-vars-content-id="2eed56a6-b721-4e8f-ab61-20309344d349" data-vars-headline="Doulas go mainstream" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(22)00261-9/fulltext" target="_blank">Research has linked</a> doula support to lower cesarean rates and fewer preterm births.

Denver ballot measure results

Denver voters had their say on six issues from foie gras to school funding.

Denver voters are poised to approve all <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="six local ballot measures" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/16/denver-ballot-measures-explained-2026" data-vars-content-id="6c7cd95d-9d27-4e8c-8d70-edf3d3da22c0" data-vars-headline="Denver ballot measure results" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/16/denver-ballot-measures-explained-2026" target="_self">six local ballot measures</a> Tuesday, from a foie gras ban to increased school funding.Here&#x27;s where things stand as of 10pm Tuesday, according to unofficial returns from the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Denver Elections Division" data-vars-click-url="https://www.denvergov.org/electionresults#/results/20261103" data-vars-content-id="6c7cd95d-9d27-4e8c-8d70-edf3d3da22c0" data-vars-headline="Denver ballot measure results" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.denvergov.org/electionresults#/results/20261103" target="_blank">Denver Elections Division</a>.

Manny Rutinel flips Colorado's competitive 8th District seat

The former state lawmaker challenged U.S. Rep. Gabe Evans.

Democrat Manny Rutinel defeated incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Gabe Evans to flip Colorado&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="most competitive congressional seat" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/08/8th-district-debate-evans-rutinel" data-vars-content-id="78e1b01f-fad0-4686-a49e-f01e096c2a93" data-vars-headline="Manny Rutinel flips Colorado&#x27;s competitive 8th District seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/08/8th-district-debate-evans-rutinel" target="_self">most competitive congressional seat</a>, according to the Associated Press. Why it matters: One of Colorado&#x27;s most <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="expensive congressional races" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cpr.org/2026/10/07/colorado-congressional-race-spending/" data-vars-content-id="78e1b01f-fad0-4686-a49e-f01e096c2a93" data-vars-headline="Manny Rutinel flips Colorado&#x27;s competitive 8th District seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cpr.org/2026/10/07/colorado-congressional-race-spending/" target="_blank">expensive congressional races</a> delivered a critical pickup for Democrats in their fight for control of the U.S. House.

Democrats dominate Colorado's down-ballot statewide races

Democrats dominate Colorado's down-ballot statewide races.

Democrats swept Colorado&#x27;s attorney general, secretary of state and treasurer races Tuesday, according to the Associated Press.Why it matters: Combined with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Democrats&#x27; victory in the governor&#x27;s race" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/11/04/phil-weiser-victor-marx-colorado-governors-race-results-2026" data-vars-content-id="76d41e32-3dac-4403-bbd0-7a5914983392" data-vars-headline="Democrats dominate Colorado&#x27;s down-ballot statewide races" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/11/04/phil-weiser-victor-marx-colorado-governors-race-results-2026" target="_self">Democrats&#x27; victory in the governor&#x27;s race</a>, the results cement the party&#x27;s control over Colorado&#x27;s statewide executive offices for another four years.

Melat Kiros sails to victory in 1st District seat

Her victory follows a wave of progressive insurgents who challenged established Democrats.

Democrat Melat Kiros handily won the race to represent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the 1st District seat on Tuesday" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/07/01/colorado-primary-results-melat-kiros-beats-diana-degette" data-vars-content-id="19e0c675-f710-41a9-83bf-99ded099a224" data-vars-headline="Melat Kiros sails to victory in 1st District seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/07/01/colorado-primary-results-melat-kiros-beats-diana-degette" target="_self">the 1st District seat on Tuesday</a>, the Associated Press reports. Why it matters: The victory caps a remarkable rise for Kiros, a political unknown who&#x27;s now set to become Colorado&#x27;s first <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Black woman elected to Congress" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/02/progressive-challenger-kiros-tests-degette-primary" data-vars-content-id="19e0c675-f710-41a9-83bf-99ded099a224" data-vars-headline="Melat Kiros sails to victory in 1st District seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/02/progressive-challenger-kiros-tests-degette-primary" target="_self">Black woman elected to Congress</a>. <ul><li>She&#x27;ll be only the third person in nearly 50 years to claim the Denver seat.</li></ul>

Polis' final budget plan would gut Medicaid benefits

Roughly 1.2 million vulnerable Coloradans rely on Medicaid.

Gov. Jared Polis wants to slash Medicaid benefits in his final <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="budget proposal" data-vars-click-url="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gUpBVO3zug3CGbHr9AmZPAbfDb3HWgau/view" data-vars-content-id="91c20e95-d4ea-4536-b78a-84e2d2f7b8a3" data-vars-headline="Polis&#x27; final budget plan would gut Medicaid benefits" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gUpBVO3zug3CGbHr9AmZPAbfDb3HWgau/view" target="_blank">budget proposal</a>, cutting adult dental coverage, scaling back home care and ending health coverage for children without legal status.Why it matters: Roughly 1.2 million Coloradans rely on Medicaid, but the term-limited Democrat says current spending is unsustainable and squeezing money for schools and other priorities.

Police arrest suspect in deadly Halloween shooting near CU

One CU student was killed and another critically injured in a shooting on Halloween night.

Boulder police have arrested an 18-year-old man in connection with a Halloween night shooting on University Hill that killed a University of Colorado Boulder student and critically injured another.The latest: Omar Perez faces charges of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder and first-degree assault in connection with the Oct. 31 shooting, according to Boulder County Jail booking records.

Flock cameras are disappearing in Colorado, but police surveillance isn't

Ditching Flock doesn't mean ditching surveillance.

Flock has become the boogeyman of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="police surveillance" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/28/police-surveillance-cameras-colorado" data-vars-content-id="d8b60625-7294-4a67-8f42-414c1959ae99" data-vars-headline="Flock cameras are disappearing in Colorado, but police surveillance isn&#x27;t" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/28/police-surveillance-cameras-colorado" target="_self">police surveillance</a>, with Colorado communities increasingly ditching its license plate-reading cameras over <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="privacy concerns" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/17/flock-camera-local-opposition-surveillance" data-vars-content-id="d8b60625-7294-4a67-8f42-414c1959ae99" data-vars-headline="Flock cameras are disappearing in Colorado, but police surveillance isn&#x27;t" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/17/flock-camera-local-opposition-surveillance" target="_self">privacy concerns</a>.Why it matters: Some are swapping Flock for competing technology, preserving the capabilities that sparked the backlash in the first place.

John Hickenlooper triumphs in Colorado's U.S. Senate race

The Democratic Party needed to win the Colorado race to bolster its chances at a majority in the U.S. Senate.

U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper easily won a second six-year term Tuesday, defeating Republican rival Mark Baisley, according to the Associated Press.Why it matters: The Democratic Party needed to win the Colorado race to bolster its chances at a majority in the U.S. Senate. Hickenlooper&#x27;s victory keeps the party in control of both of Colorado&#x27;s Senate seats.

Phil Weiser wins Colorado's governor's race

The outcome keeps Democrats in control of the state's top seat for another four years.

Phil Weiser cruised to victory in the Colorado governor&#x27;s race, according to the Associated Press. Why it matters: The victory keeps Democrats in control of the state&#x27;s top seat for another four years — and sets up Colorado as a stronger adversary to the Trump administration.

5 things to watch on Election Day in Colorado

Democrats are eyeing big wins, but conservatives could score victories of their own.

Colorado Democrats are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="eyeing a rout" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/11/02/democratic-wave-2026-election-colorado" data-vars-content-id="6c3c4fda-a88a-44c3-98f7-e7d6b585a881" data-vars-headline="5 things to watch on Election Day in Colorado" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/11/02/democratic-wave-2026-election-colorado" target="_self">eyeing a rout</a> in Tuesday&#x27;s election — but conservatives could still score major victories on the same ballot.Why it matters: The results will carry weight far beyond Election Day — from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="state policy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/07/colorado-2026-ballot-stakes" data-vars-content-id="6c3c4fda-a88a-44c3-98f7-e7d6b585a881" data-vars-headline="5 things to watch on Election Day in Colorado" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/07/colorado-2026-ballot-stakes" target="_self">state policy</a> over the next four years to Denver&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="bid" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/07/20/denver-dnc-2028-bid-progressives" data-vars-content-id="6c3c4fda-a88a-44c3-98f7-e7d6b585a881" data-vars-headline="5 things to watch on Election Day in Colorado" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/07/20/denver-dnc-2028-bid-progressives" target="_self">bid</a> to host <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the 2028 Democratic National Convention" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/08/20/denver-dnc-2028-finalist" data-vars-content-id="6c3c4fda-a88a-44c3-98f7-e7d6b585a881" data-vars-headline="5 things to watch on Election Day in Colorado" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/08/20/denver-dnc-2028-finalist" target="_self">the 2028 Democratic National Convention</a>.

What a Democratic wave could look like in Colorado

The 2026 election is poised to deliver major wins for Democratic candidates and causes in Colorado.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The 2026 election" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/30/colorado-voter-guide-2026-election-ballot-measures-candidates" data-vars-content-id="896f2b38-dc9e-4bfa-92b0-318f0fdb6a14" data-vars-headline="What a Democratic wave could look like in Colorado" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/30/colorado-voter-guide-2026-election-ballot-measures-candidates" target="_self">The 2026 election</a> is setting the stage for major Democratic victories in Colorado, both for candidates and causes.<ul><li>But the vote count will determine the election&#x27;s — and the state&#x27;s — shade of blue.</li></ul>

Michael Allen confronts Trump in bid for Colorado attorney general

Colorado's attorney general contest is expected to be one of the closest statewide races.

President Trump is a fight Democrat Jena Griswold&#x27;s eager to pick and political baggage Republican Michael Allen is trying to shed.Why it matters: Colorado&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="attorney general contest" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/15/attorney-general-race-jena-griswold-michael-allen-voting-guide" data-vars-content-id="38fb16ba-49b1-49a5-b8a0-a1b9a701c49f" data-vars-headline="Michael Allen confronts Trump in bid for Colorado attorney general" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/15/attorney-general-race-jena-griswold-michael-allen-voting-guide" target="_self">attorney general contest</a> — expected to be one of the closest statewide races — will determine who directs the state&#x27;s legal resistance to the Trump administration and how aggressively.

Denver Art Museum lands major Picasso exhibition   

Things to Do

The Denver Art Museum next year welcomes a name synonymous with modern art: Pablo Picasso. Why it matters: The exhibition will mark DAM&#x27;s first comprehensive showcase of the Spanish master — one of the most influential artists of the 20th century — and its only U.S. stop.

What's new at GABF this year

This year GABF is ditching the convention hall for a lawn party

The Great American Beer Festival is back and ditching the convention hall for a lawn party.Why it matters: One of the nation&#x27;s most venerable beer festivals is looking to win back fans with a smaller, cheaper and more personal experience — all elements it hopes will revive interest in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the languishing event" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/07/11/decline-craft-beer-festival-gabf-2023" data-vars-content-id="cf1e3b4e-4098-430b-b740-c487c2d2965b" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s new at GABF this year" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/07/11/decline-craft-beer-festival-gabf-2023" target="_self">the languishing event</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="declining industry" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/14/craft-beer-production-breweries-2025" data-vars-content-id="cf1e3b4e-4098-430b-b740-c487c2d2965b" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s new at GABF this year" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/14/craft-beer-production-breweries-2025" target="_self">declining industry</a>.

Arc opens its first thrift bins

Arc's first-ever outlet sells massively discounted clothing and goods,

Business

Arc Thrift Stores opened its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="first-ever outlet" data-vars-click-url="https://arcthrift.com/outlet" data-vars-content-id="6f9e1cb3-e2aa-4daa-900c-4ca55ec5ff29" data-vars-headline="Arc opens its first thrift bins" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://arcthrift.com/outlet" target="_blank">first-ever outlet</a> yesterday.Why it matters: It&#x27;s a big deal if you&#x27;re in the thrifting game.

Horror bookstore set to open soon on South Broadway

A "cozy haunted nook" is coming this fall.

A horror-themed bookstore is creeping up on South Broadway. Zoom in: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Broom Book &amp; Candle" data-vars-click-url="https://broombookcandle.com/" data-vars-content-id="4e13bd64-a032-44ac-a917-17cfd54f9908" data-vars-headline="Horror bookstore set to open soon on South Broadway" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://broombookcandle.com/" target="_blank">Broom Book &amp; Candle</a> — a 2,400-square-foot shop, cafe and wine bar — plans to begin a phased opening at 482 S. Broadway in early November.

Denver's first PorchFest takes over Baker this weekend

Organizers are gearing up to debut the city's porch party.

The porches of Denver&#x27;s Baker neighborhood will transform into stages on Saturday for the city&#x27;s first <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="PorchFest" data-vars-click-url="https://www.denverporchfest.com/" data-vars-content-id="e33f0033-c4da-41b8-94b5-775f92c1f3a6" data-vars-headline="Denver&#x27;s first PorchFest takes over Baker this weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.denverporchfest.com/" target="_blank">PorchFest</a>.Why it matters: PorchFest gives local musicians a big new audience, nudges Denverites beyond their playlists and brings thousands of potential customers past Baker businesses.

2027 National Western Stock Show tickets go on sale

It&#x27;s time to dust off those cowboy boots: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Stock Show&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/01/08/things-to-do-national-western-stock-show" data-vars-content-id="7843c2f9-61fd-4141-81d4-66e0fca60548" data-vars-headline="2027 National Western Stock Show tickets go on sale" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/01/08/things-to-do-national-western-stock-show" target="_self">The Stock Show&#x27;s</a> a-coming. Why it matters: After record-shattering <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="attendance this year," data-vars-click-url="https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/2026-national-western-stock-show-shatters-attendance-record" data-vars-content-id="7843c2f9-61fd-4141-81d4-66e0fca60548" data-vars-headline="2027 National Western Stock Show tickets go on sale" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/2026-national-western-stock-show-shatters-attendance-record" target="_blank">attendance this year,</a> organizers are encouraging people to snatch up tickets sooner than later.

What to expect from DOJ election monitors in Adams County

DOJ monitors will be outside Adams County polling places. Here's what they'll ask voters.

Politics

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Federal election monitors" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/22/trump-doj-election-monitors-colorado-adams-douglas-counties" data-vars-content-id="3b48e1df-2032-4164-8f80-54060d431244" data-vars-headline="What to expect from DOJ election monitors in Adams County" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/22/trump-doj-election-monitors-colorado-adams-douglas-counties" target="_self">Federal election monitors</a> plan to approach voters outside Adams County polling places on Election Day to ask about their voting experiences, a Justice Department spokesperson told Axios.Why it matters: The new details shed light on what voters could encounter from federal monitors as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="concerns mount" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/26/colorado-poll-security-intimidiation-trump-protection" data-vars-content-id="3b48e1df-2032-4164-8f80-54060d431244" data-vars-headline="What to expect from DOJ election monitors in Adams County" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/26/colorado-poll-security-intimidiation-trump-protection" target="_self">concerns mount</a> about voter intimidation.

DOJ election monitors will stay 100 feet from Adams County voting centers

The Justice Department says its monitors will stay outside polling places.

Federal <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="election monitors" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/22/trump-doj-election-monitors-colorado-adams-douglas-counties" data-vars-content-id="4f2c7d5d-6c9c-411e-980d-c545712b8fa9" data-vars-headline="DOJ election monitors will stay 100 feet from Adams County voting centers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/22/trump-doj-election-monitors-colorado-adams-douglas-counties" target="_self">election monitors</a> plan to stay outside Adams County voting centers on Election Day after the Trump administration&#x27;s Justice Department rejected Colorado&#x27;s conditions for entering.Why it matters: The standoff comes as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="concerns grow" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/26/colorado-poll-security-intimidiation-trump-protection" data-vars-content-id="4f2c7d5d-6c9c-411e-980d-c545712b8fa9" data-vars-headline="DOJ election monitors will stay 100 feet from Adams County voting centers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/26/colorado-poll-security-intimidiation-trump-protection" target="_self">concerns grow</a> about federal interference in elections — and in a county that&#x27;s part of Colorado&#x27;s fiercely competitive <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="8th Congressional District race" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/21/8th-district-greeley-interviews-rutinel-evans" data-vars-content-id="4f2c7d5d-6c9c-411e-980d-c545712b8fa9" data-vars-headline="DOJ election monitors will stay 100 feet from Adams County voting centers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/21/8th-district-greeley-interviews-rutinel-evans" target="_self">8th Congressional District race</a>, where the outcome could help determine control of the U.S. House.

2026 election showcases Colorado's geographic divide  

Colorado's statewide ballot has a geographic fault line.

The statewide ballot has a geographic fault line: All five Democratic candidates live in the Denver area, while most of their Republican rivals call southern Colorado home.Why it matters: Whoever gets elected sets the agenda — and how they prioritize addressing the state&#x27;s challenges varies by geography.

Colorado's early vote lags but shows promise for Dems

More than 1 million voters have returned their 2026 ballots a week ahead of the election.

More than 1 million Colorado voters have cast ballots in the 2026 election. Yes, but: With less than a week to go, turnout lags the prior midterm cycle, an exclusive Axios analysis finds.

Where's Gov. Polis? Not on the campaign trail.

The once-popular governor has seen his stock slip in the past year.

Colorado&#x27;s top Democrats hit the road this month for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a six-day statewide bus tour" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/19/colorado-democrats-trump-campaign-closing-message" data-vars-content-id="61c2866f-52f8-45c4-be70-993a51f72a2c" data-vars-headline="Where&#x27;s Gov. Polis? Not on the campaign trail." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/19/colorado-democrats-trump-campaign-closing-message" target="_self">a six-day statewide bus tour</a> to rally supporters … with one noticeable absence: Gov. Jared Polis.Why it matters: The once-popular governor — who cruised to reelection in 2022 with 59% of the vote — has increasingly seen his stock slip over his embrace of Republican-backed policies and priorities.

Colorado coalition expands poll protections amid heightened voter intimidation fears

Hundreds of volunteers are gearing up to stand outside Colorado polling places — not to challenge voters, but to ensure intimidation doesn&#x27;t keep them from voting.Why it matters: Election officials and voting rights advocates say anxiety about voting is running high ahead of the Nov. 3 election, driven mostly by President Trump&#x27;s efforts to undermine the process.

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