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The Straight-Up 30
The Straight-Up 30 cuts through the noise and delivers clear, accessible breakdowns of the most relevant policy, political, and governmental issues shaping our world. No partisanship. No spin. No tired talking points. Just straightforward analysis that anyone can understand — in 30 minutes or less. Whether you’re a seasoned policymaker, a political professional, or an engaged citizen, The Straight-Up 30 gives you the clarity you need in a world full of confusion.
The Straight-Up 30
Data Centers, Coal, and Colorado’s Environmental Fight with Sierra Club’s Garrett Royer
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In this episode of the Straight-Up 30, host Ross Izard talks with Garrett Royer, Political Director at Sierra Club Colorado, about what environmental policy looks like on the ground right now—at the Capitol and at the ballot box. They dig into two fast-moving issues shaping Colorado’s energy future: the rapid buildout of AI-driven data centers and the renewed fight over coal plant retirements. Garrett also explains how Sierra Club’s volunteer-powered model works, why elections (and primaries) matter for climate policy, and how everyday Coloradans can get involved.
What we cover:
• How Sierra Club Colorado’s volunteer-led advocacy model works
• Data centers: energy demand, water impacts, and the policy gap
• Coal plant retirements, federal intervention, and consumer cost transparency
• Why environmental politics increasingly runs through primaries and statewide races
• How to plug in, including Sierra Club Colorado’s Lobby Day (March 9)
About the guest:
Garrett Royer is the Political Director for Sierra Club Colorado, where he leads the organization’s legislative and electoral work. Before joining Sierra Club, Garrett spent years in LGBTQ advocacy and Colorado campaigns, including work with One Colorado and major statewide and local races.
Resources:
Sierra Club Colorado: https://sierraclubco.org
Sierra Club Colorado Lobby Day (March 9): Details and sign-up via the website
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