Colorado unexpectedly entered the international spotlight after President Trump cited the state while justifying military action against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro… claims that don’t fully line up with what’s known about gang activity here.  Then, in the wake of the state’s first potential mountain lion fatality in decades, we look at why encounters with the big cats, while still rare, become more likely this time of year. Plus, a judge blocks Colorado’s plan to require health warning labels on new gas stoves. And we explore the strange industrial relics still standing in the state’s high country. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR’s Allison Sherry reports on what’s known about Venezuelan gang activity in Colorado. CPR’s Tony Gorman with the latest on the possible New Year’s Day mountain lion attack. CPR and KRCC on Trump’s veto of Rep. Boebert’s Arkansas Valley Conduit bill. CPR’s Climate Team on the order keeping a coal-fired power plant open in Craig. CPR’s Sam Brasch on the legal challenge to Colorado’s gas stove warning law. CPR’s Stina Seig answers the question, ‘what are those bee-hive-looking things above Redstone?’ This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

From up-front pricing for online purchases to more paid leave for parents of preemies, a lot of interesting state laws took effect on New Year's Day. Then, former Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell, who died this week at age 92, had a remarkable life, one that included truck driving, Olympic judo, master jewelry design, and a stint driving the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree.  Plus, the 'Snowstradamous' of OpenSnow, meteorologist Joel Gratz, pulls back the veil on what might lie in store for Colorado's anemic snowpack. And finally, OpenAir Local Music Director Alisha Sweeney looks back at some significant Colorado music moments of 2025, and shares some acts to watch in 2026. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR’s Bente Birkeland reports on new state laws taking effect in the new year. CPR's Megan Verlee, Tony Gorman and Caitlyn Kim on the life of former Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell. CPR's Molly Cruse with an update on the state's lousy snowpack. Indie 102.3 hosts share their favorite tracks from 2025.  This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Stephanie Wolf, Corey Jones, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

A U.S. District Judge in Colorado said that immigration agents can no longer arrest people based on suspicion -- what will that mean for deportations in the state. Then, as the federal government moves to downgrade cannabis on the drug schedule, many people have questions. We have some answers. And jazz pianist Annie Booth shares her love of a holiday classic. This is our final episode of Colorado Today for the year. The show will return January 2nd, with all-new stories of the events and people that shape our state. All of us at Colorado Today wish you a happy New Year and a bright start to 2026! Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR's Ishan Thakore on Saturday's protest against the president's plan to dismantle NCAR. CPR’s Allison Sherry reports on warrantless arrests in Colorado and the release of immigration activist Jeanette Vizguerra. CPR’s Sandy Battulga answers your questions about Trump’s executive order on rescheduling cannabis.   CPR’s Michael Hughes produces a holiday-themed music lift with Denver jazz pianist Annie Booth. This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Mateo Schimpf, Arlo Pérez Esquivel, and Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Sandy Battulga, Megan Verlee, Michael Hughes and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

Denver will end this year well short of where it needs to be to meet an ambitious goal of going carbon-neutral by 2040. We look at why the city is so far behind, and we ask the mayor if Denver can get back on track. Then, at Colorado ski resorts, Mother Nature is getting lots of help from snow-makers this year. Is this the future of skiing? Plus, a visit to a high school shop class where students are tackling real world problems.   Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.   Read more on the stories in today’s show:  CPR’s Sam Brasch on how Denver’s mayor says the city can get back on track to its climate goals. CPR’s Molly Cruse on snowmaking at Keystone. CPR’s Jenny Brundin writes about an “empathy engineering” class. This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Corey Jones and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

President Trump is downgrading how federal authorities view marijuana, which could open new doors for research, and make life easier for Colorado's industry. Then, three stories about people taking what doesn't belong to them: tips for keeping your packages safe from porch pirates; Douglas County cracks down on shoplifting; and a Lakewood man's surprisingly successful effort to track down his stolen possessions. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR’s Sarah Mulholland, John Daley and Bente Birkeland on marijuana reclassification Zack Newman's Colorado Sun article on how Bret Dallas, with help from the internet, solved his own burglary This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Sandy Battulga, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

Just as the state braces for dangerous winds, a pioneering weather research lab in Boulder could be shut down, and Colorado Democrats say the threat has more to do with politics than science. Then, we check in on how Coloradans are feeling about the economy. Plus, the surprising origin story behind DIA’s iconic tented roof: how budget pressures shaped one of the world’s most recognizable airport designs. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR’s Sam Brasch reports on the White House’s promise to dismantle NCAR. CPR's Steph Rivera on Coloradans' economic struggles.  CPR’s collected Silent Recession reporting. Listen to Andrea Dukakis’ interview with the architect who designed DIA’s tent-like roof on Colorado Matters. Or get the backstory in her Denverite article.  This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

Six women accuse the world’s largest online dating company of enabling sexual assault after they were attacked by a Denver man using its apps. Then, Colorado’s massive new wildlife overpass is officially complete — but how will the animals know how to use it? Plus, a throwback to Colorado’s Wild West roots, as cattle thefts are making a troubling comeback across the state. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: The Dating Apps Reporting Project covers a lawsuit against Match Group, filed by six women who were drugged and raped or sexually assaulted by the same Denver man they met on dating apps. And here’s the initial 18-month investigation. KRCC’s Shanna Lewis reports on North America’s biggest wildlife overpass. CPR’s Haylee May reports on cattle rustlin’.  This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Dan Boyce. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Megan Verlee, Haylee May and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

The investigation into a state public health lab found out-of-date equipment, chronic understaffing, and a culture of fear. What does it mean for the safety of your food and water? Then, we’ll see warm temperatures and wind gusts of up to 75 mph on the Front Range this week. That’s a recipe for dangerous fire conditions, and possibly power cuts. And, from the reigning champion to some intriguing also-rans, it’s CPR's 17th annual Classical Carol Countdown. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR’s Ben Markus reports on data manipulation at CDPHE’s water lab. The final results of CPR Classical's 17th Annual Carol Countdown  You can listen to Kabin Thomas' Carol Countdown special and find a holiday-free classical stream at our website. Tickets and information for Tuesday night's Holiday Brass concert are at the Colorado Symphony's website. This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Haylee May. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

President Donald Trump has signed a pardon for Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters. It’s based on a unique legal theory her lawyer came up with after re-watching a Steven Spielberg film. Then, it’s not much talked about, but suicide rates among older Coloradans are disturbingly high — why, and what efforts are underway to try to bring them down? And light your candles, it’s the second night of Hanukkah! We’re celebrating with music from the Iberian diaspora. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR’s Bente Birkeland and Chuck Murphy report on President Trump trying to pardon Tina Peters. CPR’s Tom Hesse reports on how Peters’ attorney was inspired by the movie “Lincoln.”  Rocky Mountain PBS’ Kyle Cooke and the Trace investigate why suicide rates so high for Colorado’s senior citizens Colorado Matters’ 2024 Holiday Extravaganza (2025 show coming soon!)  This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Dan Boyce and Arlo Pérez Esquivel. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

The job market is changing. Figuring out what you need to do, to get the job you want, isn’t easy … but the state thinks it can help. Then, neighbors in Aurora banded together to fight a plan for fracking near their homes -- we have an update on how regulators reacted to their pushback. Plus, a reporter on an international assignment halfway around the world encountered a surprising fashion trend: Colorado hats. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR's Jenny Brundin on Polis' workforce development plan CPR's Ishan Thakore on the fight over drilling near Aurora reservoir GQ’s Andrew Fedorov reports on the popularity of Colorado hats in China. This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Sandy Battulga, and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

Colorado cattle ranchers are frustrated by a new White House trade policy they say threatens their bottom line. Then, we follow the path of your cans and bottles to see where Colorado’s recycling actually ends up. Learn what’s being done to improve the system. Plus, we’ve got Colorado book recommendations for the holidays. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members — with a big thanks to those who gave during the recent Colorado Gives Day campaign: you raised nearly $800,000 for Colorado Public Radio. Read more on the stories in today’s show: From KUNC, Lucas Brady Woods on how trade policy is affecting Colorado ranchers Denverite’s Kevin Beaty reports on if recycling actually gets recycled. Find more information about the state’s expanded recycling program here.  CPR’s Andrea Dukakis shares holiday book recommendations from Narrow Gauge Book Cooperative in Alamosa. This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Sandy Battulga, Megan Verlee, Bazi Kanani and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

An airline in Colorado wants to expand at DIA, but its proposal is hitting headwinds over its contract with ICE to transport detainees. Then, Colorado health leaders are pushing back after a federal vaccine panel voted to roll back long-standing guidance for a newborn immunization. Can public health experts catch on as social media influencers? And, a recent Pew research study on religion left out Native American faith. We meet a spiritual leader from a tribe in Southern Colorado. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: Denverite’s Kevin Beaty reports on Key Lime Air’s relationship with ICE. CPR’s John Daley reports on Colorado’s response to federal Hepatitis B immunization guidelines. CPR’s John Daley interviews a former Colorado public health official turned social media creator. CPR’s Elaine Tassy reports on indigenous spirituality in southern Colorado. This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Bazi Kanani and Arlo Pérez Esquivel. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Corey Jones, Megan Verlee, Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

A longtime Democratic fixture is facing a primary challenge from within his own party, raising questions about who will shape the next generation of leadership. Then, Colorado’s craft beer industry is confronting a tough year, and brewers say survival now depends on both quality and business strategy. Plus, state lawmakers look to bring in some expert help as they navigate increasingly complex scientific issues. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR’s Bente Birkeland on Sen. Julie Gonzales’ Senate announcement. CPR’s Ben Markus on the state of craft brewing in Colorado. CPR’s Bente Birkeland (again!) on science advisors at the state Capitol.  This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Sandy Battulga and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

Colorado law enforcement is seizing unusually large amounts of illegal drugs, and investigators say the state’s own infrastructure helps explain why traffickers route shipments here. Then, we have an update on the ongoing debate over how Colorado high schools should handle transgender athletes, a discussion playing out without statewide data. And for Colorado Wonders, we dig into how much impact Colorado’s hungriest residents, the moose, have on their environment. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR’s Ava Kian reports on what the series of record-breaking drug busts mean for Colorado? CPR’s Jenny Brundin on the transgender sports lawsuit This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and  Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Sandy Battulga, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

Knowing what's happening with Colorado's labor market is important for the plans of both individuals and the state. But bad employment data is making it hard to understand what's really going on. Then, for decades, the federal government has helped fund permanent supportive housing for those who might otherwise spend their lives on the streets. But the Trump administration is trying to change that, and thousands of people's housing could be at risk. Plus, as those close to the late state Sen. Faith Winter prepare to lay her to rest Friday, we remember how she brought the #MeToo movement to the state Capitol, with lasting consequences.  Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org.  Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR’s Sarah Mulholland reports on why the state is flying blind on important employment data. Denverite’s Kyle Harris reports on the defunding of long-term supportive housing. CPR’s Bente Birkeland reports on how late state Sen. Faith Winter changed workplace culture at the Colorado State Capitol.  Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.  It’s the time of year for supporting Colorado nonprofits at ColoradoGives.org. If you donate right now, it will count toward a 10-thousand dollar matching challenge. To help us unlock that money, make your Colorado Gives Day contribution today. This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Sandy Battulga, Arlo Pérez Esquivel, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

What might happen next for thousands of immigrants in Colorado after President Trump revoked their legal status? Also, gas prices in Colorado are now among the lowest in the nation. A chilly rescue after a coal train derails into the Gunnison River. Plus, we meet a high school civics champion from Boulder County. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR’s Allison Sherry reports on how thousands of Venezuelans in Colorado lost their legal status.  CPR’s Tom Hesse reports on a train derailing into the Gunnison River. CPR’s Anthony Cotton speaks with Cameron Parker, who represented Colorado in the National Civics Bee championships.   This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel.  It’s edited and produced by Bazi Kanani, Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Sandy Battulga, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

The national lab in Golden is losing "Renewable" from its name. Does that foreshadow a change in its mission, too? Then, Jeff Davis, the man who oversaw Colorado’s controversial wolf reintroduction program for Parks and Wildlife, has left his post. Finally, we crash an underground rave in Denver that seemed to impress even the cops who broke it up. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: KRCC's Briana Heaney on Colorado Springs' opposition to the Space Command lawsuit CPR’s Sam Brasch on NREL’s name change. The Colorado Sun’s Tracy Ross on the resignation of the CPW director. Denverite’s Kevin Beaty on the underground rave scene.  This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Haylee May. It’s edited and produced by Sandy Battulga, Arlo Pérez Esquivel, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

A radioactive element has put a hitch in plans to open a massive new reservoir near Loveland that was supposed to start filling up last month. Then, after the shooting of two National Guard members, the Trump administration has paused asylum decisions and is subjecting Afghans already in the country to new renewed scrutiny. We hear from a lawyer with the African Community Center about what that could mean for asylum seekers and Special Visa holders in Colorado. Plus, we take you on a trip to Italy where descendants of a  fabled  Coloradan’ WWII unit retraces their ancestors' steps.  It’s Giving Tuesday and because you count on Colorado Today as a resource for trusted news, we’re hoping you’ll support us by giving at ColoradoGives.org. Just search for “Colorado Public Radio” and your gift will help unlock an extra $10,000.  Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR’s Molly Cruse reports on uranium contamination at Chimney Hollow Reservoir. CPR’s Stina Sieg reports on descendants of the 10th Mountain Division in WWII. This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Sandy Battulga, Rachel Estabrook, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

First, we remember State Sen. Faith Winter, who has died in a car wreck. Then, for the first time, the state has a list of what specific jobs will be needed to meet climate goals. Plus, in the case of a mass shooting a decade ago, there’s closure now, but probably not the kind that victims and survivors were looking for. And, on this World AIDS Day, a Coloradan goes to a place they say is easy to overlook. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: The Colorado Sun reports on the death of Sen. Faith Winter. Reporter Rae Solomon reports on what jobs Colorado needs to fill to fight climate change. CPR’s Ava Kian reports on the death of the man suspected of shooting up a Planned Parenthood clinic in 2015. Hear the full interview on World AIDS Day on the Colorado Matters podcast. This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel, Bazi Kanani and Haylee May. It’s edited and produced by Stephanie Wolf, Tegan Wendland, Rachel Estabrook and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Rachel Estabrook. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.

First, an update on the federal lawsuit over ICE’s detention practices. Then, Colorado’s most iconic sculpture — the one at DIA — just underwent some much needed maintenance. Plus, how the governor wants to lower your car insurance rates. Also, Mikaela Shriffrin, Lindsey Vonn and others compete in Colorado this week. And, from the quirky to the classic, hear the Thanksgiving traditions from the people who bring you the news. We'll be back in your feeds on Monday. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show: CPR’s Allison Sherry and Chuck Murphy explain the judge’s decision to put restrictions on ICE arrests in Colorado. CPR’s Bente Birkeland reports on the governor's proposal to bring down car insurance rates in Colorado. CPR’s Stina Sieg has a list of 30 Turkey Trots happening across Colorado.