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National

Trump open to summit with Xi and Putin — to discuss denuclearization

World

President Trump wants to hold a trilateral summit with Chinese President Xi and Russian President Putin in China next month to discuss &quot;denuclearization&quot; — but not necessarily Ukraine.Why it matters: Such a summit between the leaders of the U.S., China and Russia would be unprecedented.

Exclusive: Secret pay-for-play text rocks Trump White House

The text is a key piece of evidence in the White House's probe of a missing Kennedy Center donation.

Politics & Policy

Top Trump adviser Ric Grenell allegedly outlined a stunning <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pay-for-influence offer" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/trump-kennedy-center-donation-maga-feud" data-vars-content-id="849a68ac-67da-4a2d-8455-36a84b21c661" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Secret pay-for-play text rocks Trump White House" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/trump-kennedy-center-donation-maga-feud" target="_self">pay-for-influence offer</a> to a Turkish billionaire last year: access to &quot;POTUS,&quot; &quot;VIP events&quot; and administration officials, according to a text message, reviewed by Axios, that the White House counsel is investigating.<ul><li>&quot;Once the money comes to the company here, I will arrange the donation to Kennedy Centre [sic], and you&#x27;ll be joining the VIP events and get close with the administration, even with POTUS,&quot; the May 3, 2025, text says.</li><li>Grenell has called the accusations &quot;lies&quot; and denied sending the text message.</li></ul>Why it matters: Administration officials say the text is a key piece of evidence in the White House&#x27;s investigation — ordered by President Trump — into whether Grenell abused the president&#x27;s trust and misappropriated a potential multimillion-dollar donation to the Kennedy Center, which Grenell led at the time.

Zelensky lobbies senators to press White House on alleged intel and weapons curbs

The Ukrainian president turns to allies in Congress as Trump sides with Putin on key issues.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday lobbied a bipartisan group of senators to press the Trump administration to remove what he claimed are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="restrictions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/ukraine-starlink-zelensky-spacex-musk-trump" data-vars-content-id="6ef055f8-0a9b-49fe-99d3-155049281125" data-vars-headline="Zelensky lobbies senators to press White House on alleged intel and weapons curbs" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/ukraine-starlink-zelensky-spacex-musk-trump" target="_self">restrictions</a> on intelligence sharing and weapons supplies.Why it matters: Ukrainian officials say the Trump administration has <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="quietly imposed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/ukraine-starlink-zelensky-spacex-musk-trump" data-vars-content-id="6ef055f8-0a9b-49fe-99d3-155049281125" data-vars-headline="Zelensky lobbies senators to press White House on alleged intel and weapons curbs" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/ukraine-starlink-zelensky-spacex-musk-trump" target="_self">quietly imposed</a> these limits without admitting it publicly in an attempt to press Zelensky to accept a deal to end the war that includes more concessions to Russia.

Violence, looting, arson: France faces an ominous doom loop

Violent weekend outbursts in France drove a new surge in French borrowing costs.

Economy

This weekend brought violence in the streets of France. Monday brought violence in its bond market. And therein lies a warning for other rich countries staring at big fiscal imbalances.Driving the news: There were outbursts of violence and looting in several French cities, following demonstrations over school quality and cost of living. They included rioters setting fire to the city hall in Limoges.

Democrats' long-shot Senate races get a multimillion-dollar boost

One donor is testing whether buying cheap TV time in races the party has been slow to fund can stretch a Democratic wave.

Steve Pajcic, the 80-year-old Florida attorney funding a surprise $7 million Democratic ad blitz in four <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="red-state Senate races" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/13/2028-map-swing-states-democrats-red-conservatives" data-vars-content-id="386fc6b4-47a1-478b-aa34-4d0a37aa6d93" data-vars-headline="Democrats&#x27; long-shot Senate races get a multimillion-dollar boost" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/13/2028-map-swing-states-democrats-red-conservatives" target="_self">red-state Senate races</a>, tells Axios his family could double that and expand into more long-shot states.Why it matters: Pajcic is testing whether <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="buying" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/21/republicans-democrats-senate-campaign-ad-spending-impressions" data-vars-content-id="386fc6b4-47a1-478b-aa34-4d0a37aa6d93" data-vars-headline="Democrats&#x27; long-shot Senate races get a multimillion-dollar boost" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/21/republicans-democrats-senate-campaign-ad-spending-impressions" target="_self">buying</a> cheap TV time in races the party has been slow to fund can stretch a Democratic wave to places it hasn&#x27;t won <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="in decades" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/18/democrat-2026-republican-winning-streak-kansas" data-vars-content-id="386fc6b4-47a1-478b-aa34-4d0a37aa6d93" data-vars-headline="Democrats&#x27; long-shot Senate races get a multimillion-dollar boost" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/18/democrat-2026-republican-winning-streak-kansas" target="_self">in decades</a>.<ul><li>He says his party is &quot;too cautious&quot; and aiming too low, both in the seats it&#x27;s pursuing and what it hopes to accomplish in power.</li></ul>

1-minute voter guide: Amendment 83 on hunting and fishing

The measure could reshape how the state manages wildlife.

Election

Colorado voters will decide this November whether to make hunting and fishing constitutional rights, potentially reshaping how the state manages wildlife. Why it matters: It&#x27;s the latest ballot fight over who decides <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="wildlife policy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/01/colorado-stops-killing-wolves-declining-population" data-vars-content-id="2528b15e-b649-44cc-ae14-0752255494e1" data-vars-headline="1-minute voter guide: Amendment 83 on hunting and fishing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/01/colorado-stops-killing-wolves-declining-population" target="_self">wildlife policy</a> and follows the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="failed 2024 ban" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/10/18/voting-proposition-127-mountain-lion-bobcat-hunting-colorado" data-vars-content-id="2528b15e-b649-44cc-ae14-0752255494e1" data-vars-headline="1-minute voter guide: Amendment 83 on hunting and fishing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/10/18/voting-proposition-127-mountain-lion-bobcat-hunting-colorado" target="_self">failed 2024 ban</a> on mountain lion, bobcat and lynx hunting.

1-minute voter guide: Denver's at-large city council seat

The unusual autumn municipal election is due to a resignation.

News

Ten candidates are vying for a single at-large seat on Denver&#x27;s 13-member City Council.Why it matters: The rare fall election gives winner in the driver&#x27;s seat toward reelection later this spring.

Colorado GOP U.S. Senate candidate defends Trump's Iran war

The winner will help decide whether Congress reins in Trump's military campaign.

Republican U.S. Senate candidate Mark Baisley defended President Trump&#x27;s war in Iran during a televised debate Wednesday, arguing that high gas prices are a necessary cost of confronting terrorism.Why it matters: The war has become a dividing line in Colorado&#x27;s Senate race as rising fuel costs squeeze families and businesses — and Congress faces questions about whether to rein in Trump&#x27;s military campaign.

1-minute voter guide: Amendment 86 on the Colorado ballot

It would make it tougher to change Colorado's congressional boundaries for political advantage outside the normal 10-year cycle.

Colorado voters get their chance to tighten rules on redrawing congressional maps between census years.Why it matters: The measure would make it tougher to change Colorado&#x27;s congressional boundaries for political advantage outside the normal 10-year cycle.

New Orleans

Alon Shaya's new cookbook preserves WWII memories, meals

The recipes include replicas and new dishes inspired by WWII experiences.

Culture

A new cookbook from chef <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Alon Shaya" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/03/28/chef-alon-shaya-plans-casual-new-lakeview-restaurant" data-vars-content-id="1feccf66-bb96-48c9-a59e-db3064e35138" data-vars-headline="Alon Shaya&#x27;s new cookbook preserves WWII memories, meals" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/03/28/chef-alon-shaya-plans-casual-new-lakeview-restaurant" target="_self">Alon Shaya</a> preserves the memories — and meals — of World War II.Why it matters: &quot;This book is about humanity and not government decisions,&quot; Shaya said during a book launch event Wednesday.<ul><li>&quot;Food is our greatest common denominator. Food is the one thing that all of us have history with, that all of us relate to, no matter what your political views are.&quot;</li></ul>

Colorado breweries and cideries win 41 medals at 2026 Great American Beer Festival

The medals give beer lovers a judge-vetted list of standout pours.

Food and Drink

Colorado brewers and cidermakers left the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Great American Beer Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/07/gabf-2026-whats-new-denver-beer-festival" data-vars-content-id="fa1f0b47-1557-468d-939b-eb090045ba37" data-vars-headline="Colorado breweries and cideries win 41 medals at 2026 Great American Beer Festival" 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/gabf-2026-whats-new-denver-beer-festival" target="_self">Great American Beer Festival</a> with a buzz — 41 awards in the premier American beer competition.Why it matters: The medals give beer lovers a judge-vetted list of standout pours — and recognize a state whose craft brewing industry generated more than $2.5 billion in economic impact in 2025.

Denver Nuggets release 1960s ABA uniforms 

The Nuggets are bringing back an ABA classic.

Sports

It&#x27;s time to throw it back to 1967. State of play: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Denver Nuggets" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/05/04/nuggets-playoff-exit-season-end" data-vars-content-id="1258eb16-5b32-4f08-a062-a8221c47e2c1" data-vars-headline="Denver Nuggets release 1960s ABA uniforms " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/05/04/nuggets-playoff-exit-season-end" target="_self">The Denver Nuggets</a> are paying homage to the former Denver Rockets by releasing an orange Classic Edition Uniform for the upcoming season.

Housing and transit anchor vision for Broncos stadium site

The initial draft will be considered by he Denver Planning Board later this year.

The public is getting a detailed look at how Denver residents and officials envision the area around the Denver Broncos&#x27; preferred <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="stadium site at Burnham Yard" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/08/04/broncos-release-new-burnham-yard-renderings" data-vars-content-id="84b04ec6-d766-4f21-9aef-60574f421e5b" data-vars-headline="Housing and transit anchor vision for Broncos stadium site" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/08/04/broncos-release-new-burnham-yard-renderings" target="_self">stadium site at Burnham Yard</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.

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.

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.

Denver auditor's final investigations turn up the heat on City Hall

Denver's outgoing watchdog has unfinished business, including with Mayor Mike Johnston's administration.

Politics

Denver&#x27;s outgoing watchdog is taking one last look at how City Hall spends taxpayer money, including Mayor Mike Johnston&#x27;s signature <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homelessness initiative" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/14/denver-homeless-strategy-national-model-democrats" data-vars-content-id="bd6f22d5-9e84-48df-9fc1-6086f0a7c303" data-vars-headline="Denver auditor&#x27;s final investigations turn up the heat on City Hall" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/14/denver-homeless-strategy-national-model-democrats" target="_self">homelessness initiative</a>.Why it matters: Auditor Timothy O&#x27;Brien has repeatedly exposed spending and oversight problems across city government, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fueling" data-vars-click-url="https://www.denverpost.com/2026/01/03/denver-auditor-tim-obrien-mike-johnston-clashes/" data-vars-content-id="bd6f22d5-9e84-48df-9fc1-6086f0a7c303" data-vars-headline="Denver auditor&#x27;s final investigations turn up the heat on City Hall" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.denverpost.com/2026/01/03/denver-auditor-tim-obrien-mike-johnston-clashes/" target="_blank">fueling</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="clashes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/07/mayor-johnston-clash-denver-auditor" data-vars-content-id="bd6f22d5-9e84-48df-9fc1-6086f0a7c303" data-vars-headline="Denver auditor&#x27;s final investigations turn up the heat on City Hall" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/07/mayor-johnston-clash-denver-auditor" target="_self">clashes</a> with Johnston&#x27;s administration.

Colorado Dems focus on Trump in their closing message

They must persuade voters that expanding the party's power means protection from Washington — and relief at home.

In the final stretch of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the 2026 campaign" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/19/colorado-voter-guide-2026-election-ballot-measures-candidates" data-vars-content-id="90d19053-36b8-4d68-929b-f52e544c2658" data-vars-headline="Colorado Dems focus on Trump in their closing message" 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-voter-guide-2026-election-ballot-measures-candidates" target="_self">the 2026 campaign</a>, Colorado Democrats are returning to a familiar foe: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/12/12/colorado-trump-administration-fights-escalate" data-vars-content-id="90d19053-36b8-4d68-929b-f52e544c2658" data-vars-headline="Colorado Dems focus on Trump in their closing message" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/12/12/colorado-trump-administration-fights-escalate" target="_self">President Trump</a>.Why it matters: Democrats are betting that frustration with Trump and Washington will energize their base and undecided voters.

State audit blasts Colorado's marijuana testing framework

Gaps within the framework mean consumers may be using contaminated products.

Regulatory gaps are limiting Colorado&#x27;s ability to manage safety risks for weed products sold at dispensaries, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a new state audit" data-vars-click-url="https://content.leg.colorado.gov/content/marijuana-consumer-safety" data-vars-content-id="f8ed911e-4054-436f-89ca-ca0fb65ba352" data-vars-headline="State audit blasts Colorado&#x27;s marijuana testing framework" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://content.leg.colorado.gov/content/marijuana-consumer-safety" target="_blank">a new state audit</a> found. Why it matters: These gaps could leave consumers exposed to unsafe products, marking another blow to an industry already <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="facing an existential reckoning" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/16/colorado-marijuana-prices-hit-record-low" data-vars-content-id="f8ed911e-4054-436f-89ca-ca0fb65ba352" data-vars-headline="State audit blasts Colorado&#x27;s marijuana testing framework" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/16/colorado-marijuana-prices-hit-record-low" target="_self">facing an existential reckoning</a>.

1-minute voter guide: Propositions 134 and 135 on the Colorado ballot

It asks voters whether biological sex should determine who can play on girls' and women's school sports teams.

Education

Colorado voters will decide two measures affecting transgender minors this November — one restricting participation in girls&#x27; and women&#x27;s sports, the other banning certain medical procedures.The big picture: Propositions 134 and 135 would establish statewide rules for transgender athletes and certain surgeries for minors.

Denver council candidates seem to agree on almost everything

The near-consensus among Denver City Council candidates came at an event designed to secure commitments, not spark debate.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The 10 contenders chasing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/09/01/city-council-open-seat-candidates" data-vars-content-id="ecd7ff28-3aa4-4bed-893e-910d2a77f6a8" data-vars-headline="Denver council candidates seem to agree on almost everything" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/09/01/city-council-open-seat-candidates" target="_self">The 10 contenders chasing</a> Denver&#x27;s open <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="at-large City Council seat" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/08/05/special-election-denver-city-council-seat" data-vars-content-id="ecd7ff28-3aa4-4bed-893e-910d2a77f6a8" data-vars-headline="Denver council candidates seem to agree on almost everything" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/08/05/special-election-denver-city-council-seat" target="_self">at-large City Council seat</a> largely fell in line Thursday on data centers, mass surveillance and developing housing. Why it matters: The forum offered candidates few ways to distinguish themselves as they compete for a seat that will help determine Denver&#x27;s direction on some of its most contentious issues.

1-minute voter guide: Amendment 82 

The change would enshrine Coloradan's right to use natural gas.

Colorado voters will decide whether to make access to natural gas a constitutional right in this election.Why it matters: Amendment 82 would protect Coloradans&#x27; ability to buy natural gas for cooking and heating, potentially limiting future state and local restrictions.

Douglas County

1-minute voter guide: Lauren Boebert and Eileen Laubacher seek 4th District seat

he race tests whether a Democrat running toward the political middle can win over Republican and unaffiliated voters.

Republican Lauren Boebert faces a challenge from Democrat Eileen Laubacher in Colorado&#x27;s 4th Congressional District.Why it matters: The race tests whether a Democrat running toward the political middle can win over Republican and unaffiliated voters to compete in a GOP stronghold that includes Douglas County and the Eastern Plains.

1-minute voter guide: Gonzalez and Wiley vie for Colorado secretary of state

The race could determine whether Colorado maintains its current election procedures or pursues major changes

Colorado voters will choose a new secretary of state in November, deciding who will oversee the state&#x27;s elections, voter registration and campaign finance reporting.Why it matters: The race could determine whether Colorado maintains its current election procedures or pursues major changes to how residents register and cast their ballots.

1-minute voter guide: Issue 7A would greenlight CoCo passenger rail

Front Range voters will decide whether to pay more at checkout to bring passenger trains to Colorado.

Front Range voters, from Pueblo to Fort Collins, will decide whether to pay more at checkout to bring passenger trains to the Front Range, whether they ride them or not.Why it matters: Issue 7A would fund the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Colorado Connector, or CoCo," data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/07/20/colorado-connector-train-cost-5-billion" data-vars-content-id="ba40beeb-343f-4220-a444-a91de1ce55fc" data-vars-headline="1-minute voter guide: Issue 7A would greenlight CoCo passenger rail" 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/colorado-connector-train-cost-5-billion" target="_self">Colorado Connector, or CoCo,</a> a decision that would reshape the region&#x27;s transportation options while imposing a new 0.333% sales tax within the proposed rail district.

Colorado Springs

1-minute voter guide: Crank and Killin battle for the 5th Congressional District 

Democrat Jessica Killin is challenging more than Republican Rep. Jeff Crank's record.

Democrat Jessica Killin is challenging more than Republican Rep. Jeff Crank&#x27;s record — she&#x27;s trying to break a half-century Republican lock on Colorado&#x27;s 5th Congressional District.Why it matters: The Colorado Springs-centered race offers Democrats a potential pickup in the fight for House control, with sharp divisions over household costs, the war in Iran and data centers.

1-minute voter guide: Bridges and Grantham compete for Colorado state treasurer

Colorado's treasurer race is a fight over the job description.

Colorado&#x27;s treasurer race is a fight over the job description: Democrat Jeff Bridges wants the office to take a bigger role in solving the state&#x27;s affordability problems, while Republican Kevin Grantham wants to focus on its core financial duties.Why it matters: The winner will manage billions in public money, help oversee public workers&#x27; pensions and return unclaimed property to its rightful owners.

1-minute voter guide: Weiser and Marx battle for Colorado governor

The Colorado governor's race is one of the more unusual contests in this election cycle.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Colorado governor&#x27;s race" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/10/08/colorado-governor-marx-weiser-domestic-violence-forum" data-vars-content-id="f00ffb9c-40b0-4643-ab25-555b764a70db" data-vars-headline="1-minute voter guide: Weiser and Marx battle for Colorado governor" 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/colorado-governor-marx-weiser-domestic-violence-forum" target="_self">Colorado governor&#x27;s race</a> is one of the more unusual contests in the midterm elections.Why it matters: The winner will succeed term-limited Gov. Jared Polis and steer Colorado through a budget crunch, rising costs and ongoing clashes with the Trump administration.

1-minute voter guide: Colorado's U.S. Senate race between Hickenlooper and Baisley

U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper and Republican Mark Baisley are running for the same U.S. Senate seat — but opposite jobs.

U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper and Republican Mark Baisley are running for the same U.S. Senate seat — but for opposing missions in President Trump&#x27;s Washington:<ul><li>The Democratic incumbent wants to check the president&#x27;s power, while his challenger seeks to advance MAGA&#x27;s agenda.</li></ul>

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.

Things to Do

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.

Colorado lift ticket deals

This year, Arapahoe Basin and Aspen are celebrating 80 years of skiing and riding.

This year, Arapahoe Basin and Aspen are celebrating 80 years of skiing and riding — with $80 lift tickets to match.Why it matters: The anniversary deals offer skiers a rare chance to hit two of Colorado&#x27;s best-known mountains for well below their standard daily rates.

1-minute voter guide: Amendment 84 requires additional voter ID 

The amendment would change the rules for 90% of Colorado voters who cast ballots by mail.

Four digits could decide whether a Colorado mail ballot counts under Amendment 84&#x27;s proposed voter-identification requirement.Why it matters: The amendment would change the rules for 90% of Colorado voters who cast ballots by mail.

1-minute voter guide: Amendment 87, Prop. NN and other tax measures

Colorado voters will decide not just how much they owe the state in taxes, but how much the state owes them back.

Colorado voters will decide not just how much they owe the state in taxes, but how much the state owes them back.Why it matters: Four ballot measures could reshape income taxes, reduce TABOR refunds, and possibly steer billions toward schools, health care and conservation.

Boulder

1-minute voter guide: What to know about Proposition 133 on the Colorado ballot

It would impose life in prison for child sex trafficking.

Colorado voters will decide whether to impose life sentences without parole for child sex trafficking.Why it matters: Proposition 133 would impose the state&#x27;s toughest prison sentence for the crime and broaden what qualifies as child sex trafficking.

1-minute voter guide: Amendment 81 on the Colorado ballot

The measure would override existing Colorado restrictions on cooperation with federal civil immigration enforcement.

Colorado voters will decide whether to require police to alert federal immigration authorities when certain people are charged with crimes.Why it matters: Amendment 81 would loosen Colorado&#x27;s restrictions on cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

Democrat Phil Weiser quietly appeals to GOP leaders ahead of Election Day

The two-term attorney general has promised to tap diverse leaders across the state for this administration.

Last month, in the back of a bustling Grand Junction bagel shop, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Phil Weiser spent an hour courting a key Republican budget writer.The intrigue: The meeting with state Rep. Rick Taggart didn&#x27;t appear on Weiser&#x27;s public schedule — and it&#x27;s not the only time he&#x27;s quietly reached across the aisle.

1-minute voter guide: Proposition 132 on the Colorado ballot

The proposal would significantly toughen Colorado's drug laws

Colorado voters will decide whether to make possession of any amount of fentanyl a felony and impose tougher prison sentences for dealing the drug.Why it matters: The measure would sharply toughen Colorado&#x27;s drug laws, potentially sending more people to prison as the state battles fentanyl overdoses.

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