Welcome to Briefly, Colorado Politics’ daily news briefing. Here’s what’s happening today:

Polis, Owens host “Disagree Better” event

Gov. Jared Polis hosted an event alongside former Colorado Gov. Bill Owens and Tim Shriver, CEO of the Special Olympics and co-creator of the Dignity Index, a scoring system for ranking the civility and divisiveness of political discourse.

The event, “Repairing the Breach in a Time of Political Polarization,” included a discussion on how individuals with differing views can communicate respectfully and was part of Polis’ Disagree Better initiative through the National Governor’s Association.

“As public leaders, we have a responsibility to lead with dignity and respect,” said Polis. “Research shows that when political leaders stand together publicly and commit to constructively addressing our differences, we can have a depolarizing impact.”

Other attendees included Paul Edwards of Brigham Young University’s Wheatley Institute and a panel of religious leaders.

Disagree Better was created by Polis and Utah Gov. Spencer Cox. The initiative aims to show that Americans how to work through political differences and have productive, thoughtful conversations. 

Polis speaks at Ed Commission meeting, visits Denver Indian Health and Family Services

Gov. Polis spoke at the Education Commission of the State’s Winter commissioners meeting, which brings the states educators together to discuss trends, share initiatives, and collaborate to address challenges. 

“Helping all students get a high-quality education and secure good jobs in our innovative economy is critical for their future and Colorado’s future,” said Polis. “I was excited to discuss my National Governor’s Association Chair Initiative ‘Let’s Get Ready’ at today’s meeting and the importance of creating opportunities that lead students to successful careers through many different education paths.”

Let’s Get Ready is Polis’ initiative as chair of the National Governor’s Association and focuses on how to make sure young people are prepared for the workforce.

Polis then visited Denver Indian Health and Family Services, the city’s only Indian health clinic.

In 2022, Polis signed House Bill 1190, which appropriated funds to the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to address healthcare challenges among Indigenous people living in urban areas.

“Providing all Coloradans culturally appropriate care is critical to creating a Colorado For All,” Polis said. “I am thankful to Denver Indian Health and Family Services for helping our Native communities receive the care and services needed to thrive.”

Bennet, Hickenlooper praise federal funding for Springs-based semiconductor company

Colorado Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper praised the U.S. Department of Commerce’s announcement of a $77 million investment from the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act, which authorized nearly $300 billion in funding for research and manufacturing of semiconductors in the United States.

The newest investment will help semiconductor manufacturer Entegris expand its facility in Colorado Springs, creating about 900 new jobs.

“Thanks to the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, we’re bringing the semiconductor industry back to America – and more economic opportunity to Colorado,” said Bennet. “This historic funding for Entegris will create good-paying jobs and help our state continue to lead the way in advanced manufacturing.”