Bente Birkeland

Bente Birkeland and Lucas Brady Woods, both hosts of Purplish, delve into Colorado's 2025 legislative session, sharing insights shaped by their journalism careers. They explore the experiences of first-time lawmakers navigating party dynamics and building relationships. Key debates over AI and gun legislation highlight shifting tensions between lawmakers and lobbyists. With a surprisingly calm session, the duo reflects on creative haikus about significant laws like K-Trucks legalization and clean energy initiatives, infused with personal stories from the Capitol.

Bente Birkeland, a Colorado Public Radio reporter, discusses the struggles of state Republican parties facing internal divisions and financial challenges. She highlights how deep disagreements about the GOP's future are impacting Colorado, Michigan, and Minnesota. The conversation dives into the implications of loyalty to Trump on fundraising and candidate recruitment. Additionally, shifts in campaign finance laws are pushing wealthy donors toward super PACs, further complicating party influence in an increasingly polarized environment.

Bente Birkeland, a public affairs reporter from Colorado Public Radio, dives into a remarkable court case questioning Donald Trump's candidacy eligibility based on the 14th Amendment. The discussion centers on legal battles amidst divergent voter opinions and the implications for democracy. Birkeland highlights how this trial might set precedents, comparing situations in other states like Minnesota and Michigan. The complexities of election law, democracy risks, and the intense political polarization surrounding these issues make for a gripping conversation.