Jay Bouchard, Digital Assistant Editor

Jay writes and edits stories for 5280.com and assists the digital team with social media and online strategy. He studied English and political science at Carroll College in Helena, Montana, and went on to earn a master’s degree in journalism from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. Before coming to 5280, Jay was an editorial fellow at Outside magazine in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he covered topics including South American kayaking, marathon training, and the climbing season on Mt. Everest. Born and raised in New Hampshire with roots in the west, he is an avid skier, a neurotic Chicago Cubs fan, and a connoisseur of gas station hotdogs.

Author Article Archive

Hickenlooper’s Running for Senate. His Opponents Are Not Impressed

Former Gov. John Hickenlooper is officially running for U.S. Senate. Here's what the 11 Democrats already in the primary race—as well as Sen. Cory Gardner—have to say about that.

By 5280

Your Complete Guide to Colorado’s 2020 Senate Election

Colorado's political landscape has changed drastically since Cory Gardner was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 2014. Here's who he's up against in 2020.

By 5280

Colorado’s 2020 Senate Candidates: Andrew Romanoff

This former state representative and two-time Speaker of the House hopes to take lessons from what he has accomplished in Colorado to Washington, D.C.

By Jay Bouchard

Colorado’s 2020 Senate Candidates: Angela Williams

As a sitting legislator, Williams says her recent track record—with successes in building coalitions and tackling environmental issues—ensures that she's ready to represent Colorado in Washington, D.C.

By Jay Bouchard

Colorado’s 2020 Senate Candidates: Trish Zornio

As a scientist, Zornio wants to use her professional experience to represent Colorado in the U.S. Senate and impact change for climate, health care, and education issues.

By Jay Bouchard

Colorado’s 2020 Senate Candidates: Cory Gardner

The incumbent senator touts his bipartisan politics and hopes to return to Washington, D.C. to focus on energy issues, jobs, and opportunities for Coloradans.

By Jay Bouchard

Colorado’s 2020 Senate Candidates: Michelle Ferrigno Warren

The first-time candidate, who highlights her ability to listen and build bridges, hopes her nonprofit and community advocacy background will propel her to the Senate.

By Jay Bouchard

John Hickenlooper Walks Away From His Presidential Run. So What’s Next?

The former Colorado governor has officially ended his presidential campaign, but it's still unclear whether or not he'll run for Senate.

By Jay Bouchard

It’s Been One Year Since Electric Scooters Officially Landed in Denver

And what a year it's been.

By Jay Bouchard

John Elway: Reviewing His Time as the Broncos Chief Executive

Before the team kicks off its ninth season under Elway's rule—with a new quarterback and coach—we take a look at the highs, lows, and headlines we've seen during his tenure.

By Jay Bouchard

Corey Baker Is Out as Chef at Sushi Ronin and Izakaya Ronin

The longtime sushi chef says he was pushed out of the restaurants, though his soon-to-be-former partner says the split was mutual.

By Denise Mickelsen, Jay Bouchard

It’s Official: Electric Scooters Aren’t Going Anywhere

The pilot program authorizing e-scooters to operate in Denver has been extended through the end of the summer, and a longterm plan to keep them in the city is in the works.

By Jay Bouchard

Why We Shouldn’t Be Celebrating the “End of Drought” in Colorado

The Centennial State is lush and wet right now, but experts stress we’re still in the midst of an unprecedented stretch of drought lasting more than two decades. One high-water year won't change that.

By Jay Bouchard

Deadly Rivers: At Least 10 People Have Drowned in Colorado This Year

Centennial State waterways are bursting with snowmelt, and fatalities are on the rise as we enter peak recreation season.

By Jay Bouchard

The Best Spots to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks Around Denver

Don't let the big crowds dampen your Independence Day celebrations. Here are a few spots where you can see Mile High fireworks—and have a little breathing room while you do it.

By Jay Bouchard

Why the Fate of Yates Theater Hangs on a Liquor License

Efforts to reopen Yates Theater in Berkeley hinges on the ability to secure liquor and cabaret licenses. But for neighbors who oppose the project, blocking those licenses is one of the surest ways to sink the development.

By Jay Bouchard

With the Drought Over, Will Prescribed Fire Be a Priority?

After a big winter and wet spring, one might think Colorado has the perfect conditions for increased prescribed burning. Turns out it's more complicated than that.

By Jay Bouchard

Dog-Friendly Denver: Rules for Bringing Your Dog to Restaurants

So you want to bring Lassie out for a beer and a bite? Here's what you need to know.

By Jay Bouchard

Is Breckenridge Brewery’s Founder Forcing the Company Out of its Home?

The original outpost of the iconic brewery has been operating in the same building since it was founded 29 years ago. Now, employees say the landlord wants it gone.

By Jay Bouchard

Denver Runoff Results: Hancock Hangs On, City Council Shakes It Up

After a long and contentious race, Mayor Michael Hancock defeated challenger Jamie Giellis to win a third term as Denver's mayor on Tuesday night, while a handful of new names were elected to City Council.

By Jay Bouchard

What Social Media Tells Us About Denver’s Mayoral Runoff Race

Here are some of the most important tweets, comments, and questions about the race to become Denver's next mayor.

By Jay Bouchard

A Guide to Denver’s 2019 Runoff Election

Ballots are in the mail and the much-anticipated June 4 runoff election is heating up. Here's what you need to know.

By Jay Bouchard, Natasha Gardner

Denver’s 2019 Mayoral Runoff: A Q&A with Incumbent Michael Hancock

The two-term incumbent mayor is making the pitch to Denver voters for four more years while facing criticism about growth, sexual harassment claims, and a lack in cohesive strategy.

By Jay Bouchard, Natasha Gardner

Denver’s 2019 Mayoral Runoff: A Q&A with Challenger Jamie Giellis

A new name in politics, Giellis wants to use her urban planning experience (she was president of the RiNo Art District) to “reimagine” the city, but is facing criticism from her opponent about the way her campaign has navigated racial issues.

By Jay Bouchard, Natasha Gardner

Denver’s 2019 Mayoral Runoff: The Race Heats Up

Will the incumbent hold on for a third term or will a first-time candidate unseat him? Here's what you need to know.

By Jay Bouchard, Natasha Gardner

Denver Police Don’t Ticket People Who Ride Scooters on Sidewalks—at Least Not Yet

According to court records, no one in Denver has been cited for operating an e-scooter on the sidewalk, despite a new law that bans such behavior in most parts of the city.

By Jay Bouchard

Denver 2019 Election Results: Everything You Need to Know

More than 150,000 (and counting) Denver voters cast ballots in Tuesday's election, which saw close races in many city offices and the major defeat of one closely watched ballot initiative. Next up: a series of runoff races on June 4.

By Jay Bouchard

Denver Clerk and Recorder: A Guide to the Race You Didn’t Know Was Happening

We spoke with the three candidates on the May 7 ballot for the Denver County Clerk and Recorder race. Here's what they had to say about voter turnout, public records, and more.

By Jay Bouchard