Not a lot of good options there, all three have significant negatives right now. Best bet is Trans States and hope it gets bought by Republic.

That's a pretty risky bet. What if Republic closes the DEN base after the merger? What if TSA doesn't get bought by republic and either goes under or gets sold to someone else?

It was said in tongue and cheek. i.e., there are no good options for Denver. So pick the lesser of the evils.