2023 Denver Mayoral Candidate Runoff Solution Studio

Engaging and inspiring the voters and leaders of tomorrow.

The Solution Studio is a new media program designed to engage and inspire the voters and leaders of tomorrow. The Solution Studio provides a format for candidates for public office to focus on proposed solutions, in a manner viewers find informative and engaging.

The Solution Studio is presented by the Institute for Public Service, in partnership with:

• New Voices Strategies
• The Department of Journalism and Media Production
• CLLARO
• 9news+
• The League of Women Voters of Denver

Denver Mayoral Election Solution Studio 2023

With substantial student involvement from policy to production, the Solution Studio invites candidates to “audition” – one at a time – on the strength of their solutions to the most pressing policy issues important to Colorado. Going beyond soundbites, this is an opportunity for dialogue between a single candidate and real students facing real challenges– away from the debate stage, political rally platforms, and their opponents. You, the voter, will be able to watch these sessions in their entirety or in segments on various media outlets. You can then decide, for yourself, which candidate can best envision what it takes to solve intractable problems or develop new opportunities for our community.

In 2023, the Solution Studio welcomes the candidates for Denver Mayor, Kelly Brough and Mike Johnston. MSU Denver students posed challenges and follow up questions covering issues including affordable housing and the distribution of wealth creation from homeownership, equitable economic mobility and the role of higher education, public safety and criminal justice reform, and care for the unhoused in our city.

Our sincere appreciation to all our partners, especially our students, whose work in front of and behind the camera makes the Solution Studio possible.

The Solution Studio™ is a creation of New Voices Strategies,

Background and Context

Over the past several years, Americans have seen our foundational beliefs and constitutional support for free and fair elections put at risk. While this did not happen overnight, it may be linked to incremental shifts in media coverage of legislative policy, executive action and elections through an entertainment lens.

Due to MSU Denver’s unique and diverse student population, it is essential their voices are included and heard. Initiatives like the Solution Studio provides such an opportunity.