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National

The best and worst states for AI data centers

Technology

Exclusive: Faith leaders urge Congress to limit AI weapons

TotalEnergies CEO on controversial offshore wind deal: "It's our money"

Energy & Climate

Reed Hastings to step down from Netflix board

Business

Ulta bets big on beauty as live experience

Six new spots to eat and drink in Denver

Some debuts come straight from local culinary luminaries.

Food and Drink

Several new and upcoming bars and restaurants are lighting up the city, including a sprinkling of high-profile debuts from culinary luminaries.Zoom in: We found six spots that recently opened or are set for a spring debut.

Colorado is losing companies to rival states, report finds

The findings sound an alarm about the state's economic competitiveness and business environment.

Major companies are increasingly departing Colorado, shrinking their footprint or bypassing it altogether for expansion or relocation, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a new report" data-vars-click-url="https://cochamber.com/wp-content/uploads/2025-Relocations-Tracker.pdf" data-vars-content-id="dfa6ef34-106a-4f85-8dfe-3f96559b4f74" data-vars-headline="Colorado is losing companies to rival states, report finds" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://cochamber.com/wp-content/uploads/2025-Relocations-Tracker.pdf" target="_blank">a new report</a> shows.Why it matters: The findings — from a recent Colorado Chamber Foundation study — are sounding an alarm about the state&#x27;s economic competitiveness and business environment.

Colorado's electricity bills are lower than the national average

Americans are projected to spend an average of $158 a month on household electricity.

News

Denver residents are spending an estimated $95 a month on their home electric bills, per a new Axios analysis of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data" data-vars-click-url="https://electricity.heatmap.news/" data-vars-content-id="425342a1-f75a-45b2-8b41-9744d020dc51" data-vars-headline="Colorado&#x27;s electricity bills are lower than the national average" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://electricity.heatmap.news/" target="_blank">data</a> collected and shared by climate newsroom Heatmap News.The big picture: Americans are projected to spend an average of $158 a month on household electricity.

Lauren Boebert's fundraising is dismal

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert raised $90,000 in the first three months of the year.

Election

U.S. Rep <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Lauren Boebert" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/06/24/lauren-boebert-controversy-congress" data-vars-content-id="bf8191fc-f184-488a-b8da-cbc1b004dd1c" data-vars-headline="Lauren Boebert&#x27;s fundraising is dismal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/06/24/lauren-boebert-controversy-congress" target="_self">Lauren Boebert</a> raised a paltry $90,000 in the first three months of the year and reported just $219,000 in the bank ahead of the November election.Why it matters: The Windsor Republican&#x27;s fundraising is by far the weakest of any Colorado congressional incumbent, according to an Axios Denver analysis of new campaign filings.

Craft beer's decline sets new records in 2025

The persistent downward trend is startling the once-booming industry and forcing brewers to rethink their business models.

The craft beer market continued <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="its historic decline" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/04/15/craft-beer-breweries-decline-2024" data-vars-content-id="b295ca84-8830-49d6-b2ff-ea2a18c4573d" data-vars-headline="Craft beer&#x27;s decline sets new records in 2025" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/04/15/craft-beer-breweries-decline-2024" target="_self">its historic decline</a> in 2025, with a 5.1% decrease in production and 2.9% contraction in U.S. breweries, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a new report" data-vars-click-url="https://www.brewersassociation.org/association-news/a-year-of-correction-for-craft-beer-with-early-signals-of-recovery/" data-vars-content-id="b295ca84-8830-49d6-b2ff-ea2a18c4573d" data-vars-headline="Craft beer&#x27;s decline sets new records in 2025" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.brewersassociation.org/association-news/a-year-of-correction-for-craft-beer-with-early-signals-of-recovery/" target="_blank">a new report</a> shows.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="persistent downward trend" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/09/craft-beer-production-closings-gabf" data-vars-content-id="b295ca84-8830-49d6-b2ff-ea2a18c4573d" data-vars-headline="Craft beer&#x27;s decline sets new records in 2025" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/09/craft-beer-production-closings-gabf" target="_self">persistent downward trend</a> is startling the once-booming industry and forcing brewers to rethink their business models and expand into non-beer beverages.

Denver's rent dip among nation's highest

The median rent fell by nearly 5% year over year.

New data shows the Denver metro area recorded one of the steepest rent declines in the country over the past year.State of play: The median rent in metro Denver was down nearly 5% this February from a year earlier, to $1,600 a month, according to data from Apartment List, a rental site.

Metro Denver homeowners are staying put

The trend is keeping the housing market on ice for now.

Denver metro homeowners are staying in their houses for the longest time in at least 25 years, new data shows.Why it matters: The trend is keeping the housing market on ice for now.

Frozen Four pits Denver against fellow blue blood Michigan

The Pioneers are in their third-consecutive Frozen Four.

Sports

Three things in life are certain: Death, taxes and the University of Denver Pioneers <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="making the Frozen Four" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/04/10/du-denver-hockey-frozen-four-boston-celebrini" data-vars-content-id="3d7d5824-f415-4bd2-97c7-20a870a629a8" data-vars-headline="Frozen Four pits Denver against fellow blue blood Michigan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/04/10/du-denver-hockey-frozen-four-boston-celebrini" target="_self">making the Frozen Four</a>.The big picture: The Pios are in the final four of men&#x27;s NCAA hockey for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the third consecutive season" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/04/10/university-denver-pioneers-western-michigan-frozen-four" data-vars-content-id="3d7d5824-f415-4bd2-97c7-20a870a629a8" data-vars-headline="Frozen Four pits Denver against fellow blue blood Michigan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/04/10/university-denver-pioneers-western-michigan-frozen-four" target="_self">the third consecutive season</a>.

The Colorado Rockies might be bad again

Hitting rock bottom means there's only one way but up, right?

There&#x27;s no way to sugarcoat it: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Colorado Rockies" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/08/21/colorado-rockies-could-avoid-historically-bad-season" data-vars-content-id="4e542a40-22c1-45d8-8d11-b72234252550" data-vars-headline="The Colorado Rockies might be bad again" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/08/21/colorado-rockies-could-avoid-historically-bad-season" target="_self">The Colorado Rockies</a> were baseball&#x27;s worst club last season. But hitting rock bottom means there&#x27;s nowhere to go but up, right?Why it matters: The Rox (2-4) return to the finely manicured green at Coors Field on Friday seeking a signature home debut victory over the Philadelphia Phillies, a playoff contender last season.

5 new Denver and Boulder restaurants opening this spring

Colorado's restaurant scene continues to grab our attention with new openings on the horizon this spring.

Local Brief

Colorado&#x27;s restaurant scene continues to grab our attention with new openings on the horizon this spring.Why it matters: It&#x27;s a tough time for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the restaurant industry" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/09/restaurant-report-tipped-minimum-wage" data-vars-content-id="013c2017-ce10-4fae-aeaf-b61341906f8d" data-vars-headline="5 new Denver and Boulder restaurants opening this spring" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/09/restaurant-report-tipped-minimum-wage" target="_self">the restaurant industry</a>, but a handful of chefs are making big moves.

Boulder

Frozen Dead Guy Days returns with wacky fun

Coffin races, costumes and a polar plunge return to this quirky festival.

Frozen Dead Guy Days, a wacky Colorado tradition celebrating the legendary &quot;Grandpa Bredo,&quot; kicks off its fourth year in Estes Park later this month.Why it matters: Frozen Dead Guy Days leans into its offbeat reputation — blending costumes, endurance events and community gatherings into a uniquely Colorado winter festival.

A free exhibition in Denver will display founding documents

The traveling exhibition will make eight stops to commemorate the country's 250th birthday.

Colorado&#x27;s getting a special gift <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="for its 150th anniversary" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/01/06/new-stamp-celebrates-colorado-150-birthday" data-vars-content-id="cdf56611-b314-4ea6-b8c7-5198b4faae8c" data-vars-headline="A free exhibition in Denver will display founding documents" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/01/06/new-stamp-celebrates-colorado-150-birthday" target="_self">for its 150th anniversary</a> — and it&#x27;s tied to the country&#x27;s own 250th celebration this year.Zoom in: The Freedom Plane National Tour will stop at History Colorado Center in Denver starting May 28 and make foundational documents available for public viewing for the first time.

A new playoff fan zone is coming outside Ball Arena

The fan zone will feature a 20-foot video board, a DJ and food trucks.

If you can&#x27;t score playoff tickets for the Colorado Avalanche or Denver Nuggets, the teams are offering the next best thing just outside Ball Arena.The big picture: Chopper Circle will close between 9th and 11th streets during Avs and Nuggets home playoff games, making room for a free expanded fan zone and a live game viewing area.

Denver advances proposed e-scooter contract

The contract with Veo starts May 1, replacing Bird and Lime.

After multiple delays, Denver inched closer to rolling out its new shared scooter and e-bike program with Veo, which wants to deploy its sizable fleet onto city streets.Why it matters: The Denver City Council delayed the deal over concerns, including that the switch could disrupt <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="service for low-income riders" data-vars-click-url="https://denverite.com/2026/04/01/denver-veo-scooter-contract-delayed-again/" data-vars-content-id="4805b833-2e4f-4c56-97c2-9c4c5cee5903" data-vars-headline="Denver advances proposed e-scooter contract" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://denverite.com/2026/04/01/denver-veo-scooter-contract-delayed-again/" target="_blank">service for low-income riders</a>.

Denver metro prepares for freezing temps and snow

Winter is returning to the Front Range this week with freeze warnings and snow starting Friday.

Winter is returning to the Front Range this week with freeze warnings and snow starting tomorrow.Why it matters: Temperatures are expected to drop 50 degrees in 24 hours, threatening sensitive plants, water pipes and irrigation lines, and the wintry precipitation is bound to impact travel.

How a large load tariff could work for Xcel

The utility company's proposal would set separate rates for large electricity users.

To handle surging <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data center power use" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/02/denvers-considers-data-center-moratorium" data-vars-content-id="eaa6827e-fdf7-4385-b6c2-956044372971" data-vars-headline="How a large load tariff could work for Xcel" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/02/denvers-considers-data-center-moratorium" target="_self">data center power use</a>, Xcel Energy is turning to a tool that&#x27;s gaining traction nationwide: a large load tariff.Why it matters: The tariff could help alleviate costs for households and prepare utility companies for a spike in energy demand from power-hungry data centers <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="driven largely by AI" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/06/data-centers-dominate-rising-us-demand" data-vars-content-id="eaa6827e-fdf7-4385-b6c2-956044372971" data-vars-headline="How a large load tariff could work for Xcel" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/06/data-centers-dominate-rising-us-demand" target="_self">driven largely by AI</a>.

Broncos ownership group buy minority stake in Rockies

The deal links two of Denver's biggest teams — and, through family and ownership ties, effectively connects all four major pro franchises.

The ownership group behind the Denver Broncos, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Penner Sports Group" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/10/29/how-taxpayers-could-pay-new-broncos-stadium" data-vars-content-id="1b3e749d-6726-4bac-add6-2a7443698ef1" data-vars-headline="Broncos ownership group buy minority stake in Rockies" 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">Penner Sports Group</a>, is joining the Colorado Rockies as minority partners, the baseball club announced Friday. Why it matters: The deal links two of Denver&#x27;s biggest teams — and, through <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="family and ownership ties" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2022/08/09/walton-colorado-denver-broncos-foundation" data-vars-content-id="1b3e749d-6726-4bac-add6-2a7443698ef1" data-vars-headline="Broncos ownership group buy minority stake in Rockies" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2022/08/09/walton-colorado-denver-broncos-foundation" target="_self">family and ownership ties</a>, effectively connects all four major pro franchises — concentrating influence over the city&#x27;s sports landscape.

CU football spring game to showcase new roster

Fans get a first look at new players, staff and a key quarterback competition.

The University of Colorado football team holds its annual spring game Saturday, giving fans an early look at the 2026 roster under coach Deion Sanders.Why it matters: The scrimmage offers fans the first real glimpse of an overhauled team — with dozens of new players and a revamped coaching staff — as Sanders <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="enters a pivotal season" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boulder/2025/11/19/deion-sanders-colorado-future" data-vars-content-id="ec3976e3-08d0-4f17-b476-9864feb4d345" data-vars-headline="CU football spring game to showcase new roster" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boulder/2025/11/19/deion-sanders-colorado-future" target="_self">enters a pivotal season</a> after a disappointing 3-9 2025 campaign.

Colorado puts tentative price tag on proposed passenger train

The project has been in development for decades.

The state on Thursday said a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="passenger train running" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/06/colorado-connector-front-range-rail-name" data-vars-content-id="2e88fc3a-146a-4d02-ad8f-cb8081a3b5cb" data-vars-headline="Colorado puts tentative price tag on proposed passenger train" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/06/colorado-connector-front-range-rail-name" target="_self">passenger train running</a> from Denver to Fort Collins will cost $333 million to build and roughly $30 million annually to maintain.Why it matters: After decades in the making, the public is finally getting a glimpse of the project&#x27;s real price tag — and residents could be on the hook.

Diana DeGette debuts TV ad to remind voters of her 30-year tenure

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette is reintroducing herself to Denver voters in the 2026 election as a progressive Democrat.

Fifteen terms into her congressional tenure, U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette is reintroducing herself to Denver voters in the 2026 election as a progressive Democrat.Why it matters: That she needs to do so is remarkable given her extended tenure in Congress, but it comes as she faces a well-organized primary challenge from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Melat Kiros" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/02/progressive-challenger-kiros-tests-degette-primary" data-vars-content-id="7746c491-0cd7-47b5-8184-5e4978c9a505" data-vars-headline="Diana DeGette debuts TV ad to remind voters of her 30-year tenure" 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">Melat Kiros</a>, a self-proclaimed democratic socialist who <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nearly prevented" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/28/diana-degette-melat-kiros-denver-colorado-1st-congressional-district" data-vars-content-id="7746c491-0cd7-47b5-8184-5e4978c9a505" data-vars-headline="Diana DeGette debuts TV ad to remind voters of her 30-year tenure" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/28/diana-degette-melat-kiros-denver-colorado-1st-congressional-district" target="_self">nearly prevented</a> DeGette from making the ballot.

Colorado GOP starts 2026 campaign in the red

The GOP is looking at a bleak 2026 midterm election in Colorado, where Democrats hold every statewide office.

The Colorado Republican Party gathered over the weekend to energize loyalists and name its candidates to challenge the state&#x27;s dominant Democratic Party.Why it matters: The GOP is facing a bleak 2026 election cycle in Colorado, where Democrats hold every statewide office.

Who made the GOP primary election ballot in Colorado

The state Republican Party met at the party assembly to pick its contenders for the 2026 elections.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Amid the chaos, " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/12/colorado-republiican-party-gop-2026-primary-election" data-vars-content-id="ba4f9dd5-099f-4b0e-b25d-41c292c74834" data-vars-headline="Who made the GOP primary election ballot 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/2026/04/12/colorado-republiican-party-gop-2026-primary-election" target="_self">Amid the chaos, </a>the state Republican Party picked its contenders for the 2026 elections.State of play: Here&#x27;s where things stand:

Colorado voters sour on Democratic leaders

Colorado voters are becoming increasingly pessimistic about the state's Democratic leaders, a new poll shows.

Colorado voters are increasingly pessimistic about the state&#x27;s Democratic leaders, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a new poll" data-vars-click-url="https://copollinginstitute.org/poll/2026-04-november-statewide-poll/" data-vars-content-id="d53cf352-0222-46fd-86f2-bb52a3d626ed" data-vars-headline="Colorado voters sour on Democratic leaders" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://copollinginstitute.org/poll/2026-04-november-statewide-poll/" target="_blank">a new poll</a> shows.Why it matters: The attitude shift among likely voters comes ahead of the 2026 election and offers insight into June&#x27;s primary contests.

Two Democratic candidates qualify for secretary of state race

The office is currently held by Democrats.

Jefferson County clerk Amanda Gonzalez and state Sen. Jessie Danielson will compete in the Democratic Party primary for secretary of state after earning enough votes at Saturday&#x27;s party assembly.Why it matters: The office is currently held by Democrats, and the party is confident it will retain the seat, making the primary winner the automatic frontrunner.

Colorado AG primary remains tight after party assembly

Democrats hold the advantage in Colorado entering the 2026 election.

The Democratic primary for attorney general remains a four-way, competitive contest after two high-profile candidates qualified at Saturday&#x27;s party assembly in Pueblo.Why it matters: Democrats <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="hold the advantage" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/11/15/colorado-democrat-2024-election-polls" data-vars-content-id="4766bc9c-d4d9-4b3e-a215-81420febff68" data-vars-headline="Colorado AG primary remains tight after party assembly" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2024/11/15/colorado-democrat-2024-election-polls" target="_self">hold the advantage</a> in Colorado entering the 2026 election, and the winner of the party primary will start as the frontrunner for the November election.

Rapids aim for anniversary win over Messi's Miami

It's the first time Messi will play an MLS game in Colorado.

Lionel Messi&#x27;s Inter Miami is hoping to spoil the Colorado Rapids&#x27; 30th anniversary celebration Saturday in a rare MLS <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="game at Empower Field." data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/12/18/rapids-inter-miami-lionel-messi-empower-field" data-vars-content-id="3ae11978-347c-4172-84fe-a39941259342" data-vars-headline="Rapids aim for anniversary win over Messi&#x27;s Miami" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/12/18/rapids-inter-miami-lionel-messi-empower-field" target="_self">game at Empower Field.</a> Why it matters: Stopping the diminutive Argentine — who is making his Colorado debut in the MLS — won&#x27;t be easy.

Broadway favorites and rocking musicals are coming to DCPA this season

A throwback musical from Disney, popular holiday shows and award-winning Broadway performances are coming to Denver theaters.

Things to Do

A throwback musical from Disney, popular holiday shows and award-winning Broadway performances are coming to Denver theaters.State of play: The Denver Center for the Performing Arts announced its theater lineup for the 2026-27 season this week with a mix of returning favorites and national tours.

Leven Deli offers $2 Tax Day deals on booze and treats

You can also snag a cookie for just two bucks.

So you filed your taxes on time. Now, go reward yourself.Dig in: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Leven" data-vars-click-url="https://www.eatleven.com/" data-vars-content-id="1dcacc25-76b0-40d7-af84-687e7de6666b" data-vars-headline="Leven Deli offers $2 Tax Day deals on booze and treats" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.eatleven.com/" target="_blank">Leven</a> is marking April 15 with its &quot;Taxes Are Hard, $2 is Easy&quot; promotion at both Leven Deli and Leven Supply.

Molly Brown House debuts rare Titanic artifacts

The new artifacts will be on display through December.

Five days before the Titanic sank, American writer Archibald Gracie penned an unknowingly foreboding letter aboard the colossal ocean liner.Zoom in: &quot;It is a fine ship this, but I shall await my journey&#x27;s end before I pass judgment on her,&quot; he wrote in a letter dated April 10, 1912, sending the letter a day later when the ship was docked in Queenstown, Ireland.

Presale launches for Underground Music Showcase

The music festival will make its RiNo debut in July.

Presale tickets are now available for the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Underground Music Showcase" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/02/09/ums-underground-music-showcase-denver-2026" data-vars-content-id="508644d1-3435-456e-9d5c-aa9127057b88" data-vars-headline="Presale launches for Underground Music Showcase" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/02/09/ums-underground-music-showcase-denver-2026" target="_self">Underground Music Showcase</a> as it makes its debut this July in the River North Art District.Why it matters: It&#x27;s a new era for Denver&#x27;s largest and longest-running music festival, as organizers hope to turn its cultural capital <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="into financial viability" data-vars-click-url="https://www.denverpost.com/2025/07/01/denver-ums-underground-music-showcase-shutting-down/" data-vars-content-id="508644d1-3435-456e-9d5c-aa9127057b88" data-vars-headline="Presale launches for Underground Music Showcase" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.denverpost.com/2025/07/01/denver-ums-underground-music-showcase-shutting-down/" target="_blank">into financial viability</a>.

Community rallies to rebuild City Park bandstand

City Park Jazz plans to use a mobile stage for this year's edition.

Donations are pouring in to rebuild the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="City Park bandstand" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/26/city-park-bandstand-fire-investigation" data-vars-content-id="dc74e8ec-e8a1-45d2-add6-1802c7bfa3f9" data-vars-headline="Community rallies to rebuild City Park bandstand" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/26/city-park-bandstand-fire-investigation" target="_self">City Park bandstand</a> and save this summer&#x27;s City Park Jazz, with tens of thousands of dollars raised so far.Why it matters: After a devastating loss caused by a fire, the fundraising effort signals strong support for the historic bandstand and for keeping this year&#x27;s weekly Sunday music event on track.

Former Denver Mayor Hancock is now a real estate investor

After serving in public office and then as a political consultant, Hancock appears to be shifting toward a more lucrative second act.

Politics

Former Denver Mayor <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Michael Hancock" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/07/17/denver-mayor-michael-hancock-exit-farewell-legacy" data-vars-content-id="fc60a7e1-c815-46f6-aaed-4cd923ef1663" data-vars-headline="Former Denver Mayor Hancock is now a real estate investor" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/07/17/denver-mayor-michael-hancock-exit-farewell-legacy" target="_self">Michael Hancock</a> is making a post-City Hall pivot into real estate investing.Why it matters: After serving in public office and then as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a political consultant" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/12/07/former-mayor-michael-hancock-consulting-business" data-vars-content-id="fc60a7e1-c815-46f6-aaed-4cd923ef1663" data-vars-headline="Former Denver Mayor Hancock is now a real estate investor" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/12/07/former-mayor-michael-hancock-consulting-business" target="_self">a political consultant</a>, Hancock appears to be shifting toward a more lucrative second act.

Colorado leaders warn of a "deteriorating" business climate

The ad-hoc organization, Ensuring Colorado's Innovation Future, cites Palantir's relocation as a major concern.

Days after <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a damning report" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/10/colorado-economic-development-company-headquarters" data-vars-content-id="e0f77376-ee7c-490a-bc28-d1d7f8f51bc4" data-vars-headline="Colorado leaders warn of a &quot;deteriorating&quot; business climate" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/10/colorado-economic-development-company-headquarters" target="_self">a damning report</a> about the state&#x27;s economic climate, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a bipartisan coalition" data-vars-click-url="https://ensuringcolorado.com/#home" data-vars-content-id="e0f77376-ee7c-490a-bc28-d1d7f8f51bc4" data-vars-headline="Colorado leaders warn of a &quot;deteriorating&quot; business climate" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://ensuringcolorado.com/#home" target="_blank">a bipartisan coalition</a> of local tech and business leaders issued <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="an open letter" data-vars-click-url="https://ensuringcolorado.com/#letter" data-vars-content-id="e0f77376-ee7c-490a-bc28-d1d7f8f51bc4" data-vars-headline="Colorado leaders warn of a &quot;deteriorating&quot; business climate" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://ensuringcolorado.com/#letter" target="_blank">an open letter</a> to state officials warning that &quot;the foundation of Colorado&#x27;s technology and business leadership is deteriorating.&quot;Why it matters: The unprecedented letter, signed by more than <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="230 business and community leaders" data-vars-click-url="https://ensuringcolorado.com/#signatories" data-vars-content-id="e0f77376-ee7c-490a-bc28-d1d7f8f51bc4" data-vars-headline="Colorado leaders warn of a &quot;deteriorating&quot; business climate" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://ensuringcolorado.com/#signatories" target="_blank">230 business and community leaders</a>, reflects growing alarm about Colorado&#x27;s eroding reputation as an innovation hub.

Colorado's $46.8 billion budget proposal, explained

The General Assembly will begin debate this week on a $46.8 billion budget package for the next fiscal year that is marked more by cuts than spending.

The General Assembly will begin debate this week on a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$46.8 billion budget package" data-vars-click-url="https://content.leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/26LBNarrative.pdf" data-vars-content-id="c9141f59-7b90-4c15-95c2-3c00fe75c3c0" data-vars-headline="Colorado&#x27;s $46.8 billion budget proposal, explained" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://content.leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/26LBNarrative.pdf" target="_blank">$46.8 billion budget package</a> for the next fiscal year that is marked <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="more by cuts than spending" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/23/colorado-budget-deficit-1-billion" data-vars-content-id="c9141f59-7b90-4c15-95c2-3c00fe75c3c0" data-vars-headline="Colorado&#x27;s $46.8 billion budget proposal, explained" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/23/colorado-budget-deficit-1-billion" target="_self">more by cuts than spending</a>.State of play: The powerful Joint Budget Committee, which drafts the budget package, worked to the last minute to find new revenue and reduce spending to fill <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a $1.5 billion shortfall" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/19/colorados-budget-deficit-grows-march-economic-outlook" data-vars-content-id="c9141f59-7b90-4c15-95c2-3c00fe75c3c0" data-vars-headline="Colorado&#x27;s $46.8 billion budget proposal, explained" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/19/colorados-budget-deficit-grows-march-economic-outlook" target="_self">a $1.5 billion shortfall</a>.

Colorado scrambles to find more prison beds

In the $46.8 billion budget package introduced this week, lawmakers earmarked about $26 million to address the problem.

To address rising inmate populations, Colorado is preparing to spend more than $26 million in next year&#x27;s budget on additional prison capacity.Why it matters: The money is making it harder for state lawmakers to balance a budget with a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$1.5 billion shortfall" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/19/colorados-budget-deficit-grows-march-economic-outlook" data-vars-content-id="9b5b8b78-2010-49f7-a530-1973c91927ca" data-vars-headline="Colorado scrambles to find more prison beds" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/19/colorados-budget-deficit-grows-march-economic-outlook" target="_self">$1.5 billion shortfall</a>.

Inside the mayor's relationship with the city auditor

A recent audit shed light on relationship between the city's watchdog and the mayor's office.

Mayor Mike Johnston characterizes his relationship with Denver Auditor Tim O&#x27;Brien as open and productive. The auditor calls it cordial. To the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="public" data-vars-click-url="https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&amp;hs=eizU&amp;channel=entpr&amp;q=denver%20auditor%20mayor%20problems&amp;tbm=nws" data-vars-content-id="edd41832-9a5a-4123-8c75-87b8f4c3220c" data-vars-headline="Inside the mayor&#x27;s relationship with the city auditor" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&amp;hs=eizU&amp;channel=entpr&amp;q=denver%20auditor%20mayor%20problems&amp;tbm=nws" target="_blank">public</a>, it <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="appears" data-vars-click-url="https://www.denverpost.com/2026/03/19/denver-homelessness-audit-cost-mike-johnston/" data-vars-content-id="edd41832-9a5a-4123-8c75-87b8f4c3220c" data-vars-headline="Inside the mayor&#x27;s relationship with the city auditor" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.denverpost.com/2026/03/19/denver-homelessness-audit-cost-mike-johnston/" target="_blank">appears</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="contentious" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/denver-auditor-message-mayor-mike-johnston-stop-interfering-budget/" data-vars-content-id="edd41832-9a5a-4123-8c75-87b8f4c3220c" data-vars-headline="Inside the mayor&#x27;s relationship with the city auditor" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/denver-auditor-message-mayor-mike-johnston-stop-interfering-budget/" target="_blank">contentious</a>.<ul><li>&quot;I&#x27;ve had mayors who have called me to say, &#x27;Don&#x27;t worry, my relationship was much worse with the auditor when I was here,&#x27;&quot; Johnston tells Axios Denver, declining to name names.</li></ul>

Progressive challenger tests DeGette's hold

Rep. Diana DeGette, a 15-term Colorado congresswoman, faces a challenge from a first-time democratic socialist candidate.

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette&#x27;s iron grip on the Denver seat she&#x27;s held for nearly three decades faces its most formidable challenge in years from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="progressive newcomer" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/08/11/degette-cd1-2026-race-progressive-challenger" data-vars-content-id="aa268bfc-60a1-4dc5-99e9-295bd31c4872" data-vars-headline="Progressive challenger tests DeGette&#x27;s hold" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2025/08/11/degette-cd1-2026-race-progressive-challenger" target="_self">progressive newcomer</a> Melat Kiros.Why it matters: Kiros, a democratic socialist, aims to unseat Colorado&#x27;s longest-serving Congress member — a potential upset that could signal a broader progressive push to topple <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="establishment Democrats" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/03/democrats-2026-midterms-house-primaries-jeffries" data-vars-content-id="aa268bfc-60a1-4dc5-99e9-295bd31c4872" data-vars-headline="Progressive challenger tests DeGette&#x27;s hold" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/03/democrats-2026-midterms-house-primaries-jeffries" target="_self">establishment Democrats</a> nationwide.

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