Is our nation still worthy of celebration this Independence Day?

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Renae is a Republican, political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

This weekend, we celebrate the founding of our republic 249 years ago. On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress proclaimed independence, and two days later, adopted the Declaration of Independence. Since then, our nation has endured much and today faces severe challenges. Your columnists report on the health of the good old USA as we approach the Semiquincentennial (250th anniversary) celebrations.

A recent Marist poll revealed 76% of Americans believe there is a serious threat to the future of U.S. democracy when considering the issues that divide the nation. This astounding result aligns with similar surveys conducted in prior years. Is the country, and our constitutional principles, in jeopardy? Should we be celebrating or grieving this Independence Day?

Cowley: Many claim our nation is more divisive than ever. I tend to disagree, as we have not had a civil war since 1865, no vice president has committed murder in a duel since 1804, and no U.S. Senator has been nearly caned to death on the senate floor since 1856.

The biggest change, for better or worse, is technology. No longer are Americans solely reliant on a handful of media outlets with a monopoly on the happenings of government. Everyone has a camera in their pocket and can share information across the globe in seconds. Rather than restricted access to information, we now have an overabundance of it. The burden we now bear is filtering what is real and what is not. This has become exacerbated with the emergence of AI. I’m grateful to live in the information age, but am not naive enough to ignore the dangers that accompany it.

America’s future is bright, but we are not without significant obstacles to overcome. The biggest threat to our democracy is our skyrocketing debt. Our nation’s leaders need to show the courage their predecessors lacked and stop spending more than they have. This will secure our freedoms for another 250 years.

Pignanelli: ”There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured with what is right in America.” — Former President Bill Clinton

Fifty years ago this summer, I spent my time watching “Jaws” multiple times. However, 1975 was a challenging time for this country, as inflation surged to 10%, the federal deficit reached an all-time high and domestic terrorism was on the rise. There were two assassination attempts on President Gerald Ford. Also, Ford assumed the presidency because Richard Nixon and Spiro Agnew had resigned in disgrace several years earlier. The South Vietnamese government was collapsing, and foreign adversaries were agitating against us. Worst of all, the most popular song was “Love Will Keep Us Together” by Captain & Tennille.

Despite these challenges, the country was preparing with enthusiasm for the 1976 Bicentennial, featuring public works programs, entertainment activities and numerous commemorations.

Since then, our country has experienced significant economic and social growth, and continues to be a global superpower. But there is only a nominal mention of the anniversary next year, which is disappointing. The principles underlying our constitution and nation are as strong today as they were in 1975 and before. Democracy among our 300 million citizens is messy, frustrating and successful. There is much to celebrate this week, in preparation for next year.

Recent events demonstrate the many geopolitical challenges our country faces. Should we enhance or reduce military and economic influence? Is America still the world’s beacon of hope?

Cowley: As a millennial, I watched the 9/11 attacks unfold from my junior high classrooms. I lived through decades-long wars in the Middle East, survived two recessions and a global pandemic, and endured far too many seasons of Keeping up With the Kardashians. My generation has been through a lot and is gravely concerned that we are now standing on the precipice of World War III.

It is the failure of previous administrations that has allowed the BRICS alliance to flourish. A shared foe has a unique way of bringing countries together. Prolonged strife has been allowed to fester between the U.S. and these foreign countries, strengthening their bonds together and their ire against us. The U.S. still has the strongest economy in the world. Let’s use it and flex our economic muscles more and our military might less.

Pignanelli: Warfare secured our independence. Since the 1801 Barbary War, the United States has reluctantly engaged, with economic and military weapons, against adversaries that threaten allies and our ultimate well-being. This must continue.

Immigration is an enduring controversy because our economic and lifestyle opportunities, along with the abundance of liberty, provide hope to the world.

Why should Utahns, especially, observe this July 4 anniversary with joy and pride?

Cowley: Utahns are the epitome of the American pioneering spirit and have much to be grateful for — a strong economy, great neighbors and millions of acres of pristine wilderness to enjoy during the golden days of summer.

I will be celebrating our nation’s birthday the best way I know how: competing in the Oakley and West Jordan rodeos.

Pignanelli: The issues facing our state are growth — people want to stay or move here. Economic prosperity, vibrant democracy and wonderful lifestyles are great reasons for celebration.

Will voters repeal law that outlaws collective bargaining for public employees?

By Renae Cowley & Frank Pignanelli

We explain why political pundits are already speculating about the actions lawmakers must take soon in anticipation of elections 18 months away.

Employee associations and unions collected an overwhelming number of signatures to place HB 267 (which prohibits collective bargaining for government employees) on the ballot for repeal. A recent Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics survey shows 36% of registered voters are in favor of the referendum to rescind the legislation, 32% are against, and 31% are undecided. What can be ascertained from these results?

COWLEY: With voters divided into almost perfect thirds, neither proponents nor opponents of the referendum have proven their case yet. Unions gathered an undeniably impressive 320,000 signatures, but the volume of signatures is not a direct correlation to their level of support. Many people were likely persuaded by the argument that signing simply puts the matter on the ballot for all Utah voters to weigh in on — a compelling argument, regardless of the issue being referred.

If this moves to the ballot, and it’s still a big “if” in my mind, it will result in the most money spent yet on a ballot measure in Utah. Unions will have to explain why they support union bosses receiving public employee benefits and taxpayer-funded retirements. Supporters of the bill are going to have to draw a distinction between the teachers in their kids’ classrooms that they know and love, versus UEA leadership and their support of a radical liberal agenda.

PIGNANELLI: “He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight.”— Sun Tzu Election and public affairs campaigns utilize strategies similar to those employed in military actions. (Of course, armed combatants confront horrendous challenges.) The shrewdest generals choose their battleground and when to fight. Cagey political warriors attempt similar planning.

The contest fostered by the collective bargaining referendum has devolved into a proxy battle between large national special interest organizations. The survey results will compel these well-funded entities to invest substantial resources. Further, firefighters, police officers, and teachers will be reaching out to their neighbors and friends to support the referendum. This promises a horrific battle.

The survey suggests that if the Legislature avoids this contentious issue (by repealing the law), few will object.

Political stirrings extend beyond collective bargaining. Major issues include: The Utah Fits All scholarship in jeopardy pending an appeal; judicial reform percolating, high-profile court matters on redistricting, and the Legislature’s hope for another shot at Amendment D. How do all of these issues impact one another?

COWLEY: If all of these issues become protracted battles, we could see a very crowded ballot in 2026. My prediction: several will be resolved before ballots are printed.

Should the Utah Fits All Scholarship ruling be upheld, other programs like dual-immersion and the Carson Smith Scholarship may be in jeopardy, prompting the Legislature to run a constitutional question clarifying educational funding.

Controversy surrounds several judges. Rep. Angela Romero joined Speaker Schultz in calling for 7th District Judge Don Torgerson to resign for comments he made at the end of a sentencing hearing in a felony child sexual exploitation case in Grand County. Any resulting judicial system reform is unlikely to require a ballot question; but will garner significant attention during the 2026 General Session.

Amendment D is the most likely to appear on the 2026 ballot. The Legislature is adamant about clarifying or reversing the Supreme Court’s ruling, which prohibits them from changing citizen initiatives or referenda in perpetuity. Without taking this issue to the voters, the ruling will result in initiatives becoming forever laws that can only be updated through another costly and difficult initiative.

In the unlikely event that all or most of these appear on the ballot, they will detract from one another. Prioritization and prudence are recommended if any of these is to succeed.

PIGNANELLI: Military history documents that fighting a multi-front war is expensive and requires prioritization to achieve any success. For GOP officials, the most critical target of their efforts is a ballot proposition in 2026 that would adjust the Constitution to allow amendments to successful initiatives. To attract voter approval, lawmakers will need to circumvent the collective bargaining referendum and adopt a strategic approach to other controversies.

All these matters will influence each other, but to what extent will be determined by where lawmakers place their focus. Such is political warfare.

November 2026 is a long way off. What, if anything, will happen on these matters before then?

COWLEY: The Legislature and unions will negotiate, seeking a compromise on repeal and replace. Cox intends to place the referendum on the 2026 ballot, yet many legislators will not want to run their reelection campaigns alongside this issue. It is only logical that the Legislature will consider repealing the law to avoid further fallout, as they did with tax reform. Should negotiations fail, replacing the law will be tricky without Amendment D clarification.

I’m optimistic Attorney General Derek Brown will be successful in winning the Utah Fits All Scholarship appeal, avoiding a ballot battle.

PIGNANELLI: Early next year, lawmakers will begin garnering support for the constitutional amendment that allows them to amend initiatives. Their success will require an intensive, comprehensive strategy. Other issues will likely be solved or held until 2027.

The unknown is the timing and outcome of the Planned Parenthood case, which could impact electioneering activities.

Are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints becoming politically purple?

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

Analyzing partisan trends of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, especially the youth, is a favorite endeavor of pundits nationwide. With new research on the subject, it’s also a favored activity for us.

The Cooperative Election Survey has been conducting post-mortems on Utah elections since 2006 and recently published their latest findings. Among the interesting results is that members who identify as ideologically moderate jumped to 38% in 2024, with conservatives dropping from 61% in 2016 to 50%. Members are not strongly tied to the Republican party, yet Trump received 66% of the vote. Does the data indicate political affiliation shifts in Latter-day Saint voters, and why?

Cowley: When I peer into the kaleidoscope of Ryan Burge’s data, I see GOP affiliation is falling slightly among voters of the faith; however, those who still identify as Republican are becoming more MAGA. Trump received his largest share of the vote from this demographic in the most recent election. Their earlier reluctance to support Trump is understandable. His demeanor is off-putting, yet he delivers on campaign promises — something presidents from either party failed to achieve in recent history.

The data suggests Latter-day Saint voters are not strongly committed to either party. People feel they have the intellectual high ground by claiming to be non-partisan or moderate. They profess to be open to the best arguments from either side. Nevertheless, the values of members of the faith make it hard to vote for progressive candidates.

What data cannot demonstrate is how deeply patriotic members of the church are, despite a fractious history with government. The church encourages civic engagement but does not weigh in on party politics. Homogeneity within voting preferences is attributable to members supporting candidates who most closely align with their strongly-held values of “family first.”

Pignanelli: “If a person is not a liberal when he is 20, he has no heart; if he is not a conservative when he is 40, he has no head.” — Attribution unknown

Sociologists, cultural analysts and political scientists love to analyze Church members. This is fostered by members wishing to be examined separately from other denominations. (Few care what Catholics think unless a new pope is elected.)

Church members across the country are courteous, compassionate and often express gratitude to liberals for their involvement in the civic process. Left-wing organizations frequently confuse this niceness with a potential acceptance of a new ideology, which explains the ongoing predictions of a partisan shift.

While formal engagement with the Republican Party is declining, it is not translating into increased support for Democrats. The independent sector is growing, which could present opportunities to moderate Republicans and, perhaps, the occasional shrewd, conservative Democrat.

Once again, it is essential to remember in Utah that politeness does not necessarily imply acceptance.

According to the survey, in 2024 half of the young members of the church identify as Republicans and 35% as Democrats. Is the left gaining traction with these voters?

Cowley: College is a time for exploration, experimentation and discovering one’s values. My radical act of rebellion during this formative phase was to color my hair dark brown (huge mistake). Young members of the church are similarly rebelling on their path to discovery by departing the party of their parents and trending more Democratic. Still, a majority of college-aged to mid-Millennial voters identify as Republican, but the spread is much closer than that of their elders.

Despite their more left-leaning base, in 2024, this group increased its support for Trump. There is evidence that as they age, they become more Republican.

Pignanelli: I remember the 1972 presidential elections, beset by fear that the newly minted 18-year-old voters (through passage of the 26th Amendment to the Constitution) would storm the ballot boxes to sweep in liberal George McGovern. His opponent, Richard Nixon, won in a landslide.

The lesson remains the same. While younger voters may not identify with a particular party, it does not necessarily mean they prefer another one. According to the survey, older Church members identify as Republicans, while the younger members are less likely to do so. This does not translate into an automatic win for Democrats, but it does provide them with an opportunity to attract young voters with strategic messaging.

How might this impact politics in Utah and nationally?

Cowley: Members of the faith are not a large enough voting bloc in national elections to warrant much attention, though in Utah and other states with a significant population of these voters, candidates would be wise to use this data to shape campaign tactics.

Their largest departure from the GOP was in 2016, when Evan McMullin’s popularity surged. In subsequent elections, there hasn’t been a strong third-party candidate, making this theory hard to prove. Still, this anomaly could signal Latter-day Saint voters’ willingness to keep their options open with a viable alternative to the two-party norm.

Pignanelli: The partisan makeup of the respondents approximates recent Utah election results. But the survey also documents a shift by some members from conservative to independent. If the Democrats want to capitalize on this dynamic, they must meet the members halfway in terms of messaging and policy articulation.

Will the ‘Abundance’ agenda change politics?

Every few generations, a controversial book is published that sparks a dramatic shift in political trajectory. Upton Sinclair’s “The Jungle” (workplace and food safety reforms), Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” (environmental activism), and Milton and Rose Friedman’s “Free to Choose” (the Reagan Revolution) are a few examples. We suggest that “Abundance,” authored by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, may be such a tome.

“Abundance” dissects how progressivism has crippled innovation, housing and essential development. The liberal authors artfully recommend a liberalism that protects and builds. Although causing a rift in the Democratic Party, could this signal a shift in the trajectory of national politics?

COWLEY: Reminiscent of Princess Leia’s plea to Obi-Wan Kenobi, the Abundance agenda is Democrats’ “only hope.” Government is getting in their way, stifled by layers of self-imposed regulatory burdens. Government should be judged by its outcomes, not the rigid principles it follows. Process has been prioritized over product.

Stymied public projects are merely symptoms of a larger illness within the Democratic Party. They have countless militant factions, each fighting for their niche issue to be pervasively included in all facets of government. Environmental activists demand prairie dog protection from new transmission lines. Clean air advocates want mass transit to be carbon-neutral. Even Biden saw how his infrastructure spending bills didn’t have a meaningful impact because a large chunk was gobbled up by red tape and compliance costs. Imposing restrictions on their own desired outcomes results in money spent, time wasted and little to show for it. They cannot be all things to all people. Leadership is sometimes saying no.

Although not entirely the fault of Democrats, upward mobility and the American Dream are becoming relics of the past. In 1940, children had a 92% chance of out-earning their parents. By 1980, it fell to 50%. If we don’t build and innovate, economic opportunity dwindles. AI is the next frontier for discovery and development. This global race is one that Americans cannot afford to lose, and both parties should be paying attention.

PIGNANELLI: “The formation of ideological factions within political parties — starting among intellectuals and writers — is a staple of American history.” — Jonathan Chait, The Atlantic

I remember when Friedman’s program promoting the free market aired on PBS (that’s right) in January 1980, when President Jimmy Carter was beating Ronald Reagan 65%-31 %. In November, Reagan won in a landslide. Ideas have power.

Abundance philosophy has existed for years. But this book compiled supportive documentation into a mass communication vehicle. The well-intentioned government programs established 50 years ago are crippling housing and the implementation of technological innovations. The authors argue that progressives are focused on process and litigation rather than achieving results that benefit society. Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden passed massive legislation to fund projects in healthcare, technology and alternative fuels that were impossible to initiate due to regulatory barriers.

Severe left-wing opposition to abundance advocates underscores their fear of losing influence. Indeed, pundits predict a civil war within the Democratic Party between the far left and moderates eager for a new ideology. This demand for competent, efficient government can attract independents and moderate Republicans.

America is amidst a major political realignment, and abundance is a new dynamic. We are witnessing history.

Utah is well governed. But are there aspects of “Abundance” that could be utilized to promote the objectives of our state officials?

COWLEY: Utah understands that less is more when it comes to government. The Legislature is actively removing government barriers to innovation. For example, Utah’s regulatory sandbox allows entrepreneurs to seek regulatory relief in their businesses while serving as laboratories of innovation. Look at the speed with which nuclear power is coming to Utah. Yet, more could be done on permitting and zoning to address Utah’s significant housing shortage.

PIGNANELLI: Gov. Spencer Cox appropriately notes that Utah has performed DOGE-like functions for years. Senate President Stuart Adams is promoting clean nuclear energy. Speaker Mike Schultz and lawmakers pursued a similar objective by mandating that the Utah Higher Education reallocate 10% of state funds to more productive uses. Despite public grumbling, insiders are grateful for the political protection that compels them to readjust resources.

These goals also apply to conservatives to discourage their policies that inhibit housing and economic development at the local government level. Abundance should not be beholden to any political party, but rather a mindset that if government is used, it must be practical and not an interference.

Will “Abundance” be a campaign issue in the future?

COWLEY: The Abundance agenda may help Democrat candidates become more appealing to Utah voters as the battle between progressives and moderates wages on. The real question is if they see the existential crisis befalling them and what will they do to avoid extinction. Staying the course doesn’t have an upside. There is no drama-filled Twitter spat or blunder big enough that Trump could commit for the millions of Americans who voted for him to suddenly support the progressive agenda. Democrats need to loosen the stranglehold activists have on their party in order to rack up wins.

PIGNANELLI: Abundance will be weaponized against moderate Democrats by left-wing progressives in internal battles. Democrats and Republicans in swing districts will advocate for this philosophy.

About those Democrats

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

Although the actions of President Donald Trump dominate political discussions, occasionally, there are forays into important topics, such as the future of the Democratic Party. National and local politicos, as well as the media, have provided survey-based analysis on this matter. Naturally, we must offer our insights.

National publications, including the New York Times, conducted methodologically impressive analyses documenting the geographic and demographic gains made by Trump and Republicans in the last three election cycles. If this trend continues, the GOP will remain the majority party in federal and many state governments. Will the trend continue?

Cowley: For the Trump train to slow down, it will require Democrats to completely flip the script. Republicans are making gains in part because of Trump’s ability to appeal to Americans from all walks of life with common-sense messages: cutting government waste, avoiding foreign wars, banning harmful chemicals from our food and water, ridding our country of dangerous foreign invaders, and strengthening both our economy and national security through better trade deals and increased domestic manufacturing.

According to the NYT, Democrats are only making gains with wealthy voters, those who have the luxury of prioritizing preferred pronouns over egg prices and public education. Democrats used to be the party of blue-collar workers and communities of color. Republicans were once the Wall Street elite. Now they have nearly flipped, and in a very short amount of time.

Recent Republican gains are not solely the outcome of Trump’s political achievements, but are equally attributable to the dereliction of Democrats and their dedication to fringe issues and woke self-righteousness. Democrats have lost their way, and in an effort to please the fringes of their party, they have alienated their base.

Pignanelli: “Over a long period of time, Democrats overdrew our trust account with the American people.” — Rob Flaherty, Deputy Manager, Harris for President campaign

In my lifetime, Democrats were enshrined by “experts” as the permanent majority party three times while claiming Republicans were nearing extinction. Last rites should never be given to the major political parties. The question is not if but when Democrats come back from the wilderness. (The current environment suggests no immediate return.)

Analysis of prior presidential election results documents that Republicans gained support in every demographic (except wealthy whites) and almost half of the nation’s counties. Trump is beleaguered by tariff chaos, Ukraine and controversy over his family’s business interests. Yet, polling reveals Democrats are less popular than the president. Long-winded speeches on the Senate floor and holding masks during the State of the Union have no impact. (I am being kind.) Left-wing progressives control the party’s doctrines, even though portions of their agenda are antithetical to mainstream Americans. Additionally, the Biden administration’s shortcomings continue to tarnish the Democratic Party’s perception.

Being the “Not Trump” party is a weak strategy, primarily because numerous opportunities exist to establish an attractive ideology and agenda. If a sunny, positive conservative runs against a left-wing progressive Democrat in the 2028 presidential election, the GOP will dominate for a generation.

Utah Democrats held their convention last Saturday, where former lawmaker Brian King was elected chairman with 52% of the vote. He promised to build a coalition between far-left progressives, moderates and disenfranchised Republicans. Is this possible?

Cowley: Party chairs, both locally and nationally, should have only one goal: winning elections, something Utah Democrats have struggled with since my co-author left office.

Utah has a decent number of “Never-Trump” Republicans, but getting them to vote for any Democrat who supports biological males in women’s sports or DEI policies will be a stretch. In order to accomplish Mr. King’s goal of unity, the party requires a unifying message. Democrats need to identify issues and candidates that break from the national platform and appeal to a broader swath of voters. As long as they are beholden to progressives, their party will remain on life support.

Pignanelli: King and I were debate partners at Cottonwood High School. (Yes, I got some great stories.) His goal of unifying the various constituencies is laudatory, but extremely difficult. My fellow Colt’s problem will not be a dominant GOP. Left-wing special interest groups will push hard against his attempts to build a coalition at the expense of their entire agenda.

What is the future for the Democratic Party, nationally and locally?

Cowley: I haven’t seen any real evidence of Democrats throwing out the old playbook and looking for new strategies. If the current trend is to be slowed or even reversed, Democrats will need a little less “hope” and a lot more “change.” A blue version of MAGA that promotes economic opportunity and patriotism might be the winning ticket for the flailing party. They should become champions for domestic manufacturing, which creates blue-collar jobs, or support Senate President Stuart Adams’ advocacy for clean nuclear energy. Democrats can either call an audible or keep racking up election losses.

Pignanelli: The formula for Democrat success in Utah has been evident for 50 years: capturing most of their voters plus a share of the GOP and right-leaning independents. Thus, personal attacks on Republicans are counterintuitive. Further, a calculated distance between the local contenders and the national Democratic Party is necessary. Although annoying to some, these are the facts.

A summer of politics awaits

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer. This season also sees the launch of various political activities among officials and the media. We provide a primer.

Media and political pundits love timeline markers. By the end of July, President Donald Trump will be in his second term for over 180 days. When this milepost is reached, who is likely to be viewed as the most effective cabinet member? What metrics may be used to evaluate effectiveness?

COWLEY: As a pageant queen, I’m well-qualified to crown the most effective cabinet member, and who wins each category: making headlines, budget impact, ticking off democrats, and delivering on Trump’s campaign promises.

Nobody comes close to Elon Musk in making headlines, budget impact, and ticking off the Democrats. Yet his reign is ending as he is stepping back from DOGE.

First runner-up is Tom Homan, border Czar. Under his leadership, the border is far more secure (points for delivering on promises). His first act was arresting targeted illegal immigrants in Chicago, a sanctuary city where the mayor said he was “not welcome” (scores a perfect 10 for ticking off Democrats).

The tiara and sash go to smooth and steady Kennedy. RFK is delivering big. He removed junk food from SNAP, is phasing out artificial dyes, making school lunch healthy, and he launched an investigation into autism. His remarks aren’t firebrand, he’s neither clout-chasing nor committing group thread faux pas. He’s simply furthering the policy agenda he was put in that role to do.

Oh, and Karoline Leavitt wins Miss Congeniality. Not for kindness, but for toughness, for which I award extra points.

PIGNANELLI: “Evaluate what you want - because what gets measured, gets produced.” – James A. Belasco

In this hyper-partisan environment, when evaluating public officials I recommend the Time magazine Person of the Year criterion: “Who most affected the news and our lives, for good or ill.” (Yep, this is a not-so-clever tactic to reduce nasty responses.) With such analysis, Elon Musk will be noted this summer for impacts on society, through reductions in government funding. Although hindered by officials from further narrowing the annual deficit, he initiated a serious endeavor. No one in the executive or legislative branches dared to do what he did.

Initially, DOGE was supported by two-thirds of Americans as an important effort to reduce federal expenditures. But through needless insults and false starts, this goodwill was lost. This, too, will be evaluated.

The passage (or non-passage) of the “big beautiful bill”, and its impact on Americans will be scrutinized. The state’s congressional delegation will defend the legislation, while Utah officials will provide explanations of its effects on local governments.

The best leisure activities this summer will likely include water sports, reading fiction, hiking, biking, and not politics.

Will Gov. Spencer Cox endure the same evaluations as Trump? What issues will lawmakers be considering in anticipation of special sessions this year?

COWLEY: A politician’s legacy is evaluated by effectiveness and likability, which can have an inverse correlation. Trump gets a lot accomplished with little tact. To be “more successful,” Cox advised Trump to “disagree better.” However, Trump’s success is due in part to being a bit unhinged. World leaders and political adversaries fear him because they believe he may actually do what he threatens to do. Cox strives to strike a balance between these legacy-building traits. He’s equal parts likable, with his farm kid charm, and is effective, like leading a national effort against social media’s impact on children.

Expect a special session to address two bills from the governor’s veto letter, possibly moving the union referendum election to this November, strengthening Utah Fits All, and launching more arrows at the judiciary. Speaker Schultz is clear - judges must serve justice or be served a legislative pink slip.

PIGNANELLI: The Governor will be evaluated by the success of his projects, including housing, energy and civic discourse. Since the session is a distant memory, he can establish his unique metrics for evaluation. We anticipate some novel approaches from the executive branch.

There will likely be one special session to correct some technical errors in legislation passed earlier in the year. But this open door will also allow lawmakers to consider passing different versions of bills that were vetoed and could survive gubernatorial critiques. Judicial decisions on private scholarships and other social issues will influence legislative deliberations, which are expected to be reflected later in the year. Expect a busy summer at the Capitol.

COWLEY: Drought-induced wildfires and arsenic dust storms from a receding Great Salt Lake sound like the plot of a horror movie, but are very real possibilities. On a brighter note, the Fourth of July and Pioneer Day are around the corner, marking the greatest rodeo-filled days of summer, so I and my fellow rodeo fans have that to look forward to.

PIGNANELLI: The predictions are for another record-breaking heat wave in the Rocky Mountains. This will foster obvious discussions regarding water and climate change. However, there is a trend in national and local policymakers to confront major issues with greater efficiency and sensitivity.

One-of-a-kind stained-glass dome will top Utah’s new Capitol building

By Brigham Tomco

Brigham is a staff writer on the politics team covering Utah politics and the conservative movement.

KEY POINTS

• A colorful stained-glass dome was completed for the new Utah North Capitol Building.

• The skylight contains scenes and materials from all 29 Utah counties.

• The $1.6 million price tag is part of growing costs for the project since its announcement.

The crown jewel of Utah’s new North Capitol Building is a $1.6 million, one-of-a-kind stained-glass dome designed to take visitors’ breath away even as it unites them in shared appreciation for the state’s beauty.

The custom-made vaulted ceiling will flood a multistory atrium with the diverse colors of the Utah landscapes it depicts once the expanded state office building, which will also house Utah’s first state history museum, is opened to the public in 2026.

“This stained glass laylight is a powerful reminder that Utah’s strength lies in our shared roots and our commitment to building a brighter future together,” Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said in a statement.

Composed of 14,000 individual glass pieces, the 25-by-25-foot window carries the colors of Utah’s four central ecosystems, with detailed paintings of state symbols like the honeybee, sego lily and California gull against the backdrop of state and national parks like Wasatch Mountain, Goblin Valley and Bryce Canyon.

One artistic element has a special connection to Utah: a pair of bristlecone pines containing sand, rock and wood from each of Utah’s 29 counties. The Great Basin, or ancient, bristlecone pine is one of the oldest-living organisms on the planet and is found in only three states, including Utah.

Identifiable landmarks like Dead Horse Point, Rainbow Bridge arch and Mount Olympus stand below the deep blues, golden yellows and whites of a sky centered around crystals taken from decommissioned government telescopes that will scatter rainbows down to the second floor where tourists can pick out their favorite Utah destinations.

Orr works for Holdman Studios, a Lehi-based company that has done stained-glass displays for a number of public and private facilities, including a 200-foot wall at the Utah Valley University library, and for several temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

While it is not their biggest project ever, it is by far the largest skylight they have built, according to James Graham, the project manager at Holdman Studios.

The difficulty of applying stained glass to curved architecture meant they had to build each of the 89 glass panels on uniquely shaped forms at their workshop in Lehi before their installation at the Capitol, which was completed on May 2, Graham said.

Graham hopes the project can elevate the quality of conversations on Capitol Hill as concerned citizens and elected officials stand in awe of the same piece of art.

“It’s really an opportunity for us to come together and enjoy something on a very emotional, personal level,” Graham said.

How much did the new building cost?

The artwork was procured through the Division of Facilities and Construction Management with input from some members of the Capitol Preservation Board and the Department of Government Operations.
Coming in at $1.6 million, according to the preservation board’s executive director, Dana Jones, the stained-glass dome was not part of the original plans for the North Capitol Building.

In 2022, the state’s 60-year-old office building, used mainly for executive agency staff, was torn down to make room for a new five-story, 151,535-square-foot building that would replace the former building’s mid-20th century design with a neoclassical style matching the historic Capitol building dedicated in 1916.

The size and cost of the project has grown throughout the process.

At the 2022 groundbreaking ceremony, the project was expected to come in at $168 million, but is now projected to cost a total of $281 million, which includes renovations to the central plaza, and the construction of a 400-spot underground parking garage, as the Deseret News previously reported.

While much of this increase was reportedly caused by inflated construction costs, it was also impacted by add-ons like the stained-glass dome.

But the building‘s first-of-its-kind stained-glass double-dome marks an important investment in the future, according to Jones. It will become “part of the historic fabric” of the Capitol complex for generations into the future, she said.

“We had a vision that we wanted Utahns to connect with this building,” Jones said. “For anybody that comes into this building to have a ‘wow’ moment and to find their own way to connect with Utah.”

Lessons from the state GOP convention

By Renae Cowley & Frank Pignanelli

The recently concluded Utah Republican Organizing Convention results offer an interesting insight into what may happen in the near future. We offer our perspectives.

Current GOP chair Rob Axson prevailed over his opponent, former state representative Phil Lyman 52%-48%. This was more than just a contest to see who would be the next chairman. This election was influenced by external forces and signaled direction for the state’s majority party. What does Axson’s reelection mean?

COWLEY: President Trump and Sen. Mike Lee are the darlings of delegates, and their endorsements tipped the scales in this contest. It wasn’t Lee’s endorsement of Axson that I found more notable from the convention. It was his urging that the Legislature repeal SB54, which allowed candidates to bypass the convention process. Both Axson and Lyman campaigned on eliminating the signature path, but were split on who has the authority to implement the change.

Trump’s policies may be popular with delegates, but many MAGA Republicans side-eye the usurpation of the 22nd Amendment regarding a third presidential term. Delegates narrowly voted down a resolution to “oppose and condemn any measure or action” that would allow the president to serve more than two terms. With one faction of delegates opposing a third Trump term, juxtaposed with another faction donning Trump 2028 hats, the upcoming presidential election will be interesting, to say the least.

Delegates’ clear penchant for Trump and Lee is the antithesis of their sentiment toward Gov. Spencer Cox. Nobody can blame the governor for not attending this year’s convention after the delegates’ crass behavior last year. Disagreeing with a politician is one thing, but boos and jeers for our state’s highest office holder is unbecoming of our party and Utah as a whole.

PIGNANELLI: “What we have in our power is gratitude. It can be culturally contagious.”— Kathryn Jean Lopez, National Review

Various conditions can plague successful people and prevent them from enjoying their achievements. Something similar is affecting the local GOP. Republicans control the congressional delegation, over two-thirds of the state Legislature, all the statewide offices, most county governments, etc. Utah is continually honored for a well-managed government and strong economy. Thus, activists should have spent Saturday morning congratulating themselves, thanking voters, and re-electing Axson by acclamation.

Instead, they engaged once again in this silly fight over minutia, which blemishes positive messaging to the general public. The closeness of the race defies reason because Axson is a solid chairman.

Without strong Democratic opposition to focus their energies, Republican delegates are instead chewing on other party members.

Although delegates deferred a decision on the proposed resolution to the party constitution revoking membership of candidates seeking nomination through signatures, it’s still a major issue for the party’s activists. Where is this issue heading into the next legislative session and beyond?

COWLEY: Let’s examine why delegates support only one path to party nomination. Some believe delegates are more engaged and better informed for candidate vetting. As a former delegate, I can fully endorse that statement. Others say the convention is harder to manipulate and produces more conservative candidates. Since the passage of SB54, I haven’t observed Republican candidates becoming less conservative, and both processes yield creative campaign tactics - caucus stacking and coordinated, paid signature gathering. Convention-only arguments seem to be rooted in protectionism while signature gathering favors wealthy candidates. Neither path is without its shortcomings.

As candidates, legislators conduct a cost-benefit analysis. Signature gathering is costly, but it’s an insurance policy. Convention-only can be expensive without any guarantee of making it to the Primary. As policymakers, legislators are divided on the best approach for candidate selection.

PIGNANELLI: Delegates comprise less than 1% of Republican voters. But they want control over the nominating process restored. Because they are more engaged than the average citizen, their activism cannot be dismissed.

But on the other side of the conundrum is the fact that, should the Legislature eliminate the signature gathering process, many events would be triggered. A referendum, an initiative, and a restricting of resources to the party will likely occur should delegates regain control of the nominating process.

What’s likely to happen? The existing passive-aggressive strategy will continue. Many elected Republican officials will grumble about the signature gathering process, praise legislation that reverses it, but ensure the bill fades away in the last days of the session. This will keep the peace. Such is practical politics.

COWLEY: Congressional holdouts are conservative hardliners. They like the “big beautiful budget bill” but feel it doesn’t go far enough to reduce the deficit. Moody’s downgrading of the U.S. credit rating fuels these concerns. Comparable budget hawks also serve in Utah’s Legislature, but because of our constitutionally mandated balanced budget, similar dynamics don’t arise.

PIGNANELLI: The Utah delegation has perfected the ability of throwing red meat to the activists but working behind the scenes to ensure a working relationship with the president, his team and their colleagues. Similar dynamics occur in the Legislature, in which local MAGA lawmakers receive attention but the necessary work (budgets, appropriations, infrastructure, economic features, etc.) are always a priority.