Title: Independence Institute: Fighting for Freedom at the Local Level

By Nancy Murray

Kathleen Chandler from the Independence Institute recently visited the Republican Strategy Forum to discuss the organization’s mission and how individuals can get involved in the fight for freedom at the local level. The Independence Institute, a non-partisan group, is turning 40 next year. Comprised of freedom-oriented individuals, the organization seeks to limit government and educate the public on policies that enhance personal and economic freedom. While the Institute does not engage in social issues, it has a strong focus on tax policy and has resorted to court action in the past, though less frequently now due to less favorable court conditions.

The Independence Institute’s media arm, Complete Colorado, features writing from notable contributors such as Mike Rosen. With a budget of $3 million, the small organization is funded by small donations and operates out of Denver at 16th and Clarkson, offering free parking for visitors to the capital and serving as a hub for those looking to engage in the fight for freedom.

Kathleen Chandler’s boss, John Caldera, leads the Independence Institute, which was founded by John Andrews, a key figure in passing TABOR and a former President of the Senate. Andrews also met Charlie Kirk before he launched Turning Point. Paul Prentice of the Republican Strategy Forum is a Fellow at the Independence Institute, working alongside the organization to write policy briefs and fight at the Capitol.

The Independence Institute emphasizes the importance of local government, stating that county and municipal governments have the most significant impact on our lives, while the federal government has the least. With over 4000 governing bodies in the 7-county Denver area, including HOAs, the organization stresses the need to hold local government accountable.

To break the cycle and change our culture, the Independence Institute encourages individuals to take inventory of their skillsets and volunteer where they can, forming coalitions. Both Republicans and Democrats are working on issues such as education and energy. The organization also advises writing down long-term goals, spreading the word, and staying informed.

Boards and Commissions, which advise, conduct hearings, and create policies, are seen as the most impactful level for the average citizen to get involved. With a commitment of about 10-15 hours per month, the Independence Institute aims to fill these boards with liberty-loving individuals who will work to dissolve unnecessary boards and commissions, as not all are elected or accountable.

With the mantra “Think Freedom!” the Independence Institute emphasizes the importance of generational change, pointing out that our media focuses too much on national news and not enough on local news, which is essential for hearing, digesting, and taking action. The Independence Institute encourages sharing civic-minded involvement with the next generation, rather than just the “protest culture” our kids are taught and reminds us of the motto “E Pluribus Unum” – “out of many, one.”

To stop the growth of unaccountable government, the Independence Institute advises knowing when and where your City Council meets, as you get 3 minutes to speak. Mayors and City Councils appoint members to boards, and the organization encourages individuals to visit the Colorado Springs website to apply, view open positions, and sign up for vacancy alerts. With 70 boards and commissions the opportunities for involvement are numerous.

Special committees, such as those celebrating the US 250th Anniversary on July 4th, 2026, and the Colorado 150th Anniversary on August 1st, 2026, are also areas where individuals can contribute. To apply for a position on a board or commission, one must live in the district, city, or county of the commission. The application process involves submitting and following up, ensuring the application is non-partisan, calling with questions, and attending meetings of the council that appoints the seats to shake hands and build relationships.

The Independence Institute encourages reaching out to the community and using social media to invite others to council and board meetings, bringing support and asking the crucial question for every action taken by a council or commission: “Is this the proper role of government?”

Five years ago, an individual in Centennial went through this training and was appointed to a board, then ran for county Commissioner and is now a candidate for the mayor of Centenial, certainly a success story. 

The Independence Institute encourages speaking softly and shrinking government. Holding ballot parties to discuss issues, controlling what you can control, using your influence at the local level, and being persistent are all essential steps in the fight for freedom.

As Kathleen Chandler and the Independence Institute continue to fight for freedom on the streets and in the halls of government, they invite all those who believe in liberty to join them in their mission to limit government and enhance personal and economic freedom at the local level.

Abraham Lincoln didn’t win every race.

Kathleen can be reached at: 720-621-3602, kathleenchandler@i2i.org.