Denver Clerk and Recorder Paul Lopez talks in front of students, faculty, staff, and community members about election safety and best practices for voting.
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, Denver Clerk and Recorder Paul López and community organizations joined more than 75 attendees for a nonpartisan discussion about election security, voter education and civic engagement.
With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, students at the University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) had an opportunity to hear directly from local government leaders and community organizations about the voting process, election security, and ways to participate in democracy.
On Oct. 14, CU Denver’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Political Science Department hosted “Democracy Under Pressure,” a nonpartisan educational event that brought together more than 50 students, faculty, staff, and community members.
Held in the Student Commons Building on CU Denver's campus, the event featured presentations from Denver Mayor Mike Johnston and Denver Clerk and Recorder Paul D. López, a CU Denver alumnus, alongside representatives from local civic organizations. The event was co-sponsored by the CU Denver Student Government, CU Denver Political Science Department, and other CLAS academic departments.
"By connecting students with public officials and organizations working in civic education, CU Denver's Political Science Department provided a setting for attendees to ask questions, explore different perspectives, and learn more about how to participate in and protect our free and fair elections," said CU Denver Political Science Department Chair Tony Robinson, Ph.D.
The discussion focused on helping attendees better understand the upcoming elections, the systems designed to protect the voting process and the resources available to eligible voters.
Connecting Students With Denver's Civic Leaders
For CU Denver students, the event provided an opportunity to engage with the people responsible for administering and supporting elections in the city where they live and study.
Johnston and López shared information about Denver's efforts to support a safe, secure, and fair election season. Both leaders also answered questions from attendees, creating opportunities for dialogue about election procedures, voter access, and public confidence in the electoral process.
López's participation brought an additional connection to the CU Denver community. As an alumnus who now serves as Denver's clerk and recorder, he offered students an example of how a CU Denver education can connect to careers in government, public service, and civic leadership.
The event also demonstrated how studying political science extends beyond textbooks and classroom discussions. By bringing local officials to campus, the department gave students an opportunity to connect academic topics with the institutions and processes that affect their communities.
Making Voting Information Accessible
A central focus of the event was helping attendees understand how to participate in the upcoming midterm elections.
Representatives from Common Cause, New Era Colorado, the League of Women Voters, ACLU of Colorado, and Indivisible Colorado shared voter education resources while encouraging eligible students and community members to participate in the electoral process. Attendees received guidance on voting options, including how to return mail ballots, locate ballot drop boxes, and vote in person.
For students voting for the first time, navigating election procedures or balancing school, work, and other responsibilities, access to clear information can help make the process easier to understand.
The participating organizations also introduced attendees to community resources where they could find additional information and support.
Bringing Civic Education Into the CU Denver Community
Events like this reflect the role universities can play in creating opportunities for civic learning, informed discussion and community engagement.
By connecting students with public officials and organizations working in civic education, CU Denver's Political Science Department provided a setting for attendees to ask questions, explore different perspectives and learn more about participating in elections.
The event was educational and nonpartisan. CU Denver does not endorse any candidate, political party or ballot measure.
How to Meet Your Moment: Get Informed and Get Involved
Students interested in participating in the upcoming elections can start by checking their voter registration, reviewing voting options, and learning where to find reliable election information.
Colorado voters can visit GoVoteColorado.gov to check their registration, find voting locations, and access official election resources.
For students interested in government, public policy or civic engagement, opportunities like this event also offer ways to explore how political institutions work and connect with organizations serving their communities.
Community Organizations and Voting Resources
The following organizations participated in the event, sharing information about voting, civic engagement and opportunities for community involvement. Their participation does not constitute an endorsement by CU Denver.
Common Cause
A nonpartisan organization dedicated to strengthening democracy through voter education, government accountability, and protecting voting rights. Common Cause works to ensure that people have opportunities to participate in the political process.
New Era Colorado
An organization focused on engaging and empowering young Coloradans through voter education, civic participation, and community organizing. Its work helps young people understand elections and participate in decisions affecting their futures.
League of Women Voters of Colorado
A nonpartisan, grassroots organization that promotes informed participation in government and works to protect voting rights. It provides election information, voter guides, and educational resources.
ACLU of Colorado
A nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting civil rights and civil liberties through education, advocacy and legal action. Its work includes protecting voting rights and helping Coloradans understand their constitutional rights.
Indivisible Colorado
A statewide network connecting local grassroots groups to coordinate civic engagement and advocacy efforts. The organization supports community organizing and opportunities for Coloradans to participate in public policy discussions.
