August 22, 2025: Republican resigns to avoid censure, health insurers pull out, hoax attack, State Fair starts

There’s an effort underway in Colorado to shore up health insurance access for thousands of people before it goes away or costs rise and force people to drop their coverage. Then, an unusual punishment for a state lawmaker who got caught kicking off a crude group chat. Plus, as the State Fair kicks off, hear what’s new – and what’s back. Plus, an attack on a park ranger now appears to be a hoax. This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Megan Verlee and Stephanie Wolf. The executive producer is Rachel Estabrook. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño. 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 John Daley reports on health insurers who may pull plans off of Connect for Health Colorado . CPR’s Bente Birkeland reports on a resignation and attempted censure at the Capitol . CPR’s Ben Markus reports on the bizarre crime that now appears to have been a hoax . KRCC’s Shanna Lewis previews the Colorado State Fair .