Independence Institute

06/19/2026

Colorado elections, family dynamics, bucket lists, and more.

Mandy Connell and Deborah Flora cover a wide range of topics in the latest episode of Mandy & Deb.

Watch now: https://youtu.be/Y6MpksAyw8E

What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments.

06/19/2026

Colorado's own Justice Neil Gorsuch authored a unanimous Supreme Court opinion yesterday in United States v. Hemani, a major Second Amendment case with implications for states like Colorado where ma*****na is legal under state law.

The Court held that the federal government cannot broadly deny someone their Second Amendment rights based solely on their status as a ma*****na or controlled substance user.

The Independence Institute also contributed to the case through amicus briefs co-authored by Research Director Dave Kopel.

It's a significant constitutional ruling—and a reminder that Colorado voices continue to shape national debates over individual liberty and constitutional rights.

06/18/2026

Colorado’s water starts here. So why does so much of it end up somewhere else?

In the latest episode of Devil’s Advocate, Jon Caldara sits down with Greg Walcher to unpack one of the most important—and misunderstood—issues in the West: Colorado water.

From interstate compacts to California’s water demands, Walcher explains why water policy remains one of the biggest challenges facing Colorado’s future.

Watch now: https://youtu.be/ZtOF9pNzMRk

If you care about Colorado’s water, growth, agriculture, and long-term prosperity, follow Independence Institute for more conversations and analysis on the policies shaping our state.

06/17/2026

Colorado’s largest voting bloc isn’t Republican or Democrat—it’s unaffiliated voters.

As this 9NEWS report highlights, independent voters continue to play a growing role in shaping Colorado elections. Yet too often, political conversations are dominated by the loudest voices at the partisan extremes.

That’s why Independence Institute launched Independent Majority: to provide a home for independent-minded Coloradans who value affordability, transparency, accountability, and practical solutions over party talking points.

Colorado’s future will be shaped by citizens who think for themselves. We’re working to make sure those voices are heard.

Watch the 9NEWS report and learn why unaffiliated voters matter more than ever.

Two million unaffiliated voters can return either the Democratic primary ballot or the Republican ballot, but not both.

06/16/2026

Xcel Energy is seeking its largest rate hike ever. What’s driving it, and are Colorado ratepayers stuck footing the bill?

Jake Fogleman and Amy Cooke break it down in the latest PowerGab.

Watch: https://youtu.be/v-dV71vwQXg

06/15/2026

New Learning Curve episode!

Colorado's 2026 legislative session ended with major last-minute changes impacting homeschool enrichment programs and part-time funding.

Ross Izard & Erin Brantley break down what changed, what it means for families, and what's next as rulemaking begins.

Watch Episode 14: https://youtu.be/9FaMcUpir4I

06/14/2026

Colorado's sanctuary policies are drawing national attention.

At a recent congressional hearing, Congressman Gabe Evans questioned a Department of Homeland Security official about the impact of sanctuary jurisdictions and federal immigration enforcement.

What was discussed, and what does it mean for Colorado?

Read more from Complete Colorado:

Evans asked Mullin to make visa renewal for lawful immigrants in Colorado a more smooth and efficient process.

06/11/2026

"You can't fight city hall."

Brandon Wark of Free State Colorado disagrees.

In this episode of Devil's Advocate, Jon Caldara sits down with Brandon to discuss how ordinary citizens can make an extraordinary impact when they get involved. From local government battles to grassroots victories, this conversation highlights why citizen activism still matters—and how engaged residents can hold government accountable.

If you've ever wondered whether one person can make a difference, this episode may change your mind.

Watch now: https://youtu.be/YAYba9fVOa8

06/10/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this year's Continuing Legal Education seminar, "Emerging Legal Issues in the Mountain West: Equity, Diversity, Inclusivity, and Constitutional Litigation."

Missed it? The program will soon be available as an approved homestudy, allowing participants to earn CLE credit on their own schedule.

Stay tuned for details.

06/09/2026

Climate lawsuits against oil and gas companies keep coming. But what are they really trying to accomplish?

In the latest episode of PowerGab, Jake Fogleman and Amy Cooke sit down with Russ Greene, Executive Director of the Prime Mover Institute, to discuss the growing trend of climate lawfare. Who benefits from these lawsuits? What are the costs? And are they aimed at changing energy policy through the courts rather than the legislative process?

If you've wondered why these cases continue to surface despite significant legal hurdles, this conversation is worth your time.

Watch now: https://youtu.be/aHV7yo2FNFA