City Cast Denver logo
July 2, 2026

Who Really Won and Lost the Primaries? Dark Money, the DSA, Predictions Markets, and More

City Cast Denver

Who Really Won and Lost the Primaries? Dark Money, the DSA, Predictions Markets, and More

00:00:00
View all City Cast Denver episodes

The primaries on Tuesday ushered in historic change to our Mile High City, with a 29-year-old Democratic Socialist primed to take over the 1st Congressional District seat from a 30-year incumbent. But what exactly can we expect from Melat Kiros in Congress? And what change will Attorney General Phil Weiser bring if he can defeat the Republican nominee for governor in November? The Lever editor-in-chief David Sirota joins producer Paul Karolyi to question the narratives coming out of the Colorado primary elections this week, sort out the true winners and losers, and finish up with a special non-election-related Wins and Fails of the Week.

Paul talked about redistricting and a new housing development planned at York St. Yards. David talked about ice cream and his friend Bret Saunders

For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter at denver.citycast.fm.

Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver

Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver

Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm

What do you think Denverites should expect from Melat Kiros if she wins the general in November? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418

If you enjoyed today's interview with Tess Rowser, the Marketing Manager of the Water Lantern Festival, learn more here.

Learn more about the sponsors of this July 2nd episode:

Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Hey Denver

Stay connected to City Cast Denver and get ready to join the local conversation.

Can't subscribe? Turn off your ad blocker and try again.

Latest Episodes

See all
August 3

Cool Down With Denver’s Best Ice Cold Treats

‘Tis the season for sweet and icy treats! From a classic mangonada to innovative ice cream nachos, we’ve rounded up a list of great local...

City Cast Denver podcast episode art
August 2

‘Your City Could Be Better’: How One City Beat Restrictive Zoning — Presented By City Cast Denver

Do you know how zoning laws affect Denver’s housing costs? New Haven, CT, has been governed for years by restrictive zoning that made it...

City Cast Denver podcast episode art
July 31

Your Guide to August 2026 in Denver

We’re in the thick of the summer season! There’s no end to the high temps in sight, so how do you stay cool and keep your sanity? Green c...

City Cast Denver podcast episode art
July 30

Are Denver’s Neglected Buildings Being Exploited for Profit?

You know that busted old, abandoned home down the block? City officials revamped the regulations around these neglected properties last y...

City Cast Denver podcast episode art
July 29

The Data Center Being Built in Elyria-Swansea is Getting Loud

The CoreSite data center in Elyria-Swansea is nearly complete, and some skeptical neighbors are already starting to see their concerns ma...

City Cast Denver podcast episode art
July 28

Is Utah Luring One of Denver's Biggest Companies? Plus, a Huge City Council Shake-Up and the Science of 4AM Bars

Denverites will vote in both a special election in November and municipal election in April as at-large councilmember Sarah Parady steps...

City Cast Denver podcast episode art
July 27

City Cast vs. Denverite: Who Knows Colfax Best?

Colfax Avenue is undoubtedly one of Denver’s most infamous and storied streets. It’s got so much gritty charm that it’s practically a rit...

City Cast Denver podcast episode art
July 26

‘Your City Could Be Better’: The Trick to Getting People To Volunteer — Presented By City Cast Denver

It’s not a given that every Denverite will chip in to help their community. In this episode, City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with writer...

City Cast Denver podcast episode art
July 24

How Denver Chefs Are Changing Our Mexican Food Scene

For a long time, Mexican food in Denver was seen as an unchangeable, untouchable cuisine. While Den-Mex is still king, local chefs are br...

City Cast Denver podcast episode art
July 23

Are Mayor Mike’s Big New Promises Enough to Win Him Reelection? Plus, Coloradans Think This Place is Pretty OK!

On Tuesday night, Mayor Mike Johnston delivered his annual State of the City address, which included a pilot program for universal childc...

City Cast Denver podcast episode art