📸 Behind that local food influencer drama

🏛️ Johnston Praises Denver’s Asylum Program

At a conference in Washington, D.C., Mayor Mike Johnston referred to the migration crisis that has brought thousands of newcomers to Denver as an “opportunity.” He touted the Denver Asylum Seeker program, which provides newcomers with temporary housing and assists in a path to work authorization within 180 days, as a model for other cities. [Denverite]

• Flashback: We talked to Mayor Johnston earlier this year about the newcomer crisis, right after his first trip to D.C. [City Cast Denver 🎧]

👀 Will Trump Actually Visit Aurora?

On Sept. 18, Former President Donald Trump said he planned to visit Aurora within the next two weeks — but no such plans have been confirmed. Meanwhile, Vice Presidential candidate J.D. Vance will host a campaign fundraiser in Denver Oct. 8 alongside a few notable Republican figures and supporters. [Denver Post 🔒]

• Some context: Aurora’s mayor says he welcomes a Trump campaign stop to dispel false claims over the Venezuelan gang, Tren de Agua, supposedly infiltrating the city. Here’s what we know so far. [Hey Denver]

🤳 Denver Influencer Drama Unfolds

A local food influencer stirred up Instagram drama last week when some allegedly scammy behavior involving local restaurants was exposed. But does financial transparency and honesty with your followers even matter to the Denver world of social media? Two fellow Mile High influencers weigh in. [City Cast Denver 🎧]

🪧 Workers Protest Kroger-Albertsons Merger

The protest Monday coincided with the first day of the state trial seeking to block Kroger and Albertsons from merging. The state attorney general and labor unions say the merger would negatively impact workers and food prices, while grocery corporation attorneys say a merger would prevent store closures. This court trial could have far-reaching implications for U.S. consumers. [CPR; Denver 7]