Independence Institute

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Independence Institute Founded in 1985, Independence Institute is a non-partisan, free-market think tank in Colorado. But we have never been content with just research.

A central role of an effective think tank is to produce quality research and analysis. For over 35 years we have provided research resulting in changes in law and policy. We are more than a think tank. We are an “action tank.” We put our ideas into action through groundbreaking litigation, activist training, work on ballot initiatives, new media and investigative reporting. We don’t just fight on paper. We fight for freedom on the streets, in the statehouse, in the media, on the ballot, and in the courts.

10/14/2026

Think you can make a better political ad than we can? Prove it.

Affordable Colorado is putting up prize money for the best videos taking on three measures on Colorado’s November ballot: Proposition NN, Amendment 87, and Issue 7A.
Pick a measure. Make your case. Make it funny, clever, serious, satirical—or just better than ours. AI-generated videos are welcome, too.

The video with the most combined views wins $2,000 for each ballot initiative.
Entries are open now through October 29.
Contest details and official rules: i2i.org/affordablecolorado
Paid for by Affordable Colorado, Katie Kennedy Registered Agent

10/14/2026

Before Election Day, get the facts. Watch our latest explainer, research the proposal, and understand what's on your ballot.

Paid for by Affordable Colorado, Katie Kennedy, Registered Agent

10/13/2026

Wind and solar projects, data centers, and the future of energy in Colorado. Who gets to make the decisions?

On the latest episode of PowerGab, Weld County Commissioner Scott James joins host Amy Cooke to discuss a recent divided vote on a wind and solar facility, the growing demand for data centers, and the challenges facing local communities as Colorado's energy landscape evolves.

Are Colorado's energy policies keeping up with the state's changing needs?

Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/ibl649xmQlg

10/13/2026

Think you can make a better political ad than we can?

Prove it—and you could win $2,000.

Create an ad taking on Proposition NN, Amendment 87, or Issue 7A and enter the Affordable Colorado video contest by October 29.

Details: i2i.org/affordablecolorado
Paid for by Affordable Colorado, Katie Kennedy, Registered Agent

10/13/2026

Colorado was first in the nation to pass comprehensive AI regulations. But when it comes to regulating emerging technology, is being first always a good thing?

On the latest episode of Code at the Capitol, host Vanessa Rutledge sits down with Kaden Rosenbaum of the Reason Foundation to examine Colorado's controversial AI legislation, its recent revisions, and whether lawmakers are striking the right balance between consumer protection and innovation.

Will these regulations protect Coloradans or create more red tape for businesses and developers?

Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/ExO_MjKL6Sg

Can political satire cross the line into illegal speech? An Independence Institute ad featuring an AI-generated version ...
10/12/2026

Can political satire cross the line into illegal speech? An Independence Institute ad featuring an AI-generated version of State Sen. Cathy Kipp has sparked a first-of-its-kind legal dispute in Colorado.

At the center of the controversy: where does the state draw the line between regulating AI-generated political content and protecting free speech under the First Amendment? CBS Colorado spoke with attorney David Lane, who is representing Independence Institute, about the case and what's at stake for political satire.

https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/deepfake-ad-colorado-state-senator-prompts-court-case/

A deepfake political ad is at the center of a precedent-setting court case in Colorado.

10/12/2026

What happens when a child is struggling to read, but their test scores say they're doing just fine?

For some children with dyslexia, strong vocabulary and other skills can mask reading difficulties, leaving parents struggling to get their child the support they need.

On this episode of Learning Curve, the cofounders of CO Kid discuss Colorado's new dyslexia screening requirements under SB25-200, the importance of early identification, and what parents need to know.

Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/D3_MabFd2tk

Colorado parents, stay informed! Follow Learning Curve for conversations that break down education policies, explain how they impact your children, and help you better navigate Colorado's changing education landscape.

10/11/2026

Want to understand what Proposition NN would actually change?

Our latest explainer breaks down TABOR, the revenue cap, where the money would go, and what the measure could mean for future refunds.

Watch the explainer and get the facts before you vote.
Paid for by Affordable Colorado, Katie Kennedy Registered Agent

10/11/2026

Think you can make a better political ad than we can? Prove it.

Affordable Colorado is putting up prize money for the best videos taking on three measures on Colorado’s November ballot: Proposition NN, Amendment 87, and Issue 7A.
Pick a measure. Make your case. Make it funny, clever, serious, satirical—or just better than ours. AI-generated videos are welcome, too.

The video with the most combined views wins $2,000 for each ballot initiative.
Entries are open now through October 29.

Contest details and official rules: i2i.org/affordablecolorado
Paid for by Affordable Colorado, Katie Kennedy Registered Agent

10/10/2026

“They look at us like we’re the problem.”

On this episode of Devil’s Advocate, the conversation turns to the growing tension between law enforcement, policymakers, and the communities officers are expected to protect.
What happens when the people enforcing the law feel like they’re also being treated as the problem?

Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/KrCC5ouXC50

Address

727 E 16th Avenue
Denver, CO
80203

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+13032796536

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