Chuck and Julie Show, March 9, 2026

Chuck And Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden Can the Save Act save Colorado? Election Integrity, Global Strategy, and Colorado’s Shifting Political Landscape This episode of the Chuck and Julie Show explores the potential impact of the federal SAVE Act on Colorado’s election system, analyzes the rapid military decline of Iran under current U.S. pressure, and discusses local Colorado developments, including significant economic losses in Denver and recent political appointments. The SAVE Act and the Fight for Election Integrity The hosts argue that the SAVE Act is essential for restoring voter confidence in Colorado, a state they describe as having a "closed system" favoring progressive outcomes. Chuck emphasizes two transformative provisions: the requirement for in-person registration with proof of citizenship and the prohibition of universal mail-in voting. They contend that shifting back to a request-based absentee ballot system would eliminate what they perceive as a massive structural advantage for the Democratic party. The discussion highlights a personal anecdote regarding the "Motor Voter" system, where the hosts' 15-year-old son was automatically prompted to register to vote while obtaining a learner's permit. They express concern over the efficiency of the state's registration outreach compared to the slow delivery of actual government IDs, suggesting that the current system lacks sufficient safeguards against non-citizen or underage voting. Geopolitics: The Neutralization of Iran Donald Trump has reportedly indicated that the conflict in the Middle East is nearing a conclusion much faster than anticipated. According to the discussion, Iran's military capabilities have been severely diminished, leaving them with no functional navy, air force, or reliable communication systems. The hosts, supported by analysis from Victor Davis Hanson, suggest that Iran’s previous "rope-a-dope" strategy—waiting for a change in U.S. administration—has failed as the current executive action has moved to eliminate the nuclear threat directly. The conversation also touches on the broader geopolitical consequences of this shift. As the U.S. exerts control over global energy interests, including potential moves in Venezuela, the hosts suggest that driving oil prices down to approximately $50 per barrel would lead to the economic collapse of Russia. They note that China has already begun scaling back military exercises near Taiwan due to fuel shortages, indicating that energy-based diplomacy is yielding tangible national security results. Colorado Economic Trends and Local Policy The hosts discuss the financial health of Denver, citing a study that estimates the city has lost nearly $1 billion in revenue due to downtown office vacancies, declining property taxes, and lost sales tax from retail closures. They argue that the current municipal and state leadership is pursuing "unsustainable" financial paths. On a more positive note for the hosts, they celebrate the appointment of Dr. Brian Dundep to the EPA’s Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee. They view this as a sign that the federal government is dismantling "regulatory warfare" in favor of common-sense environmental policies. Additionally, they note that Colorado Democrats have withdrawn a controversial bill aimed at legalizing prostitution, which the hosts attribute to a lack of public support and a desire to avoid giving Republicans a potent campaign talking point. The episode underscores a sense of urgency regarding structural reforms in Colorado's election laws while expressing optimism about the effectiveness of current U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. Despite local economic challenges in Denver, the hosts see the withdrawal of radical legislation and new federal appointments as signs of a shifting political tide.