NEWS & EVENTS

Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25 Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25

New and old political challenges — redistricting, drought and mail-in voting

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.

Three issues that could challenge Utah’s success have received recent media attention. We offer hope to readers.

According to a Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll, more than 80% of Utahns approve of the ballot mailing system in some form. Yet, President Donald Trump recently promised an executive order eliminating vote-by-mail across the country. Is our preference for electioneering in jeopardy?

Cowley: President Trump blames vote-by-mail for his 2020 loss. Cox stated Trump is right to be suspicious of mail-in ballots due to the increased risk of fraud. Both are correct, but Utah has successfully implemented universal by-mail balloting for almost a decade and does it right.

Last session, HB300 passed, requiring voters to opt-in for by-mail voting and to renew this preference every eight years. Thankfully, the process is easy. This will help clean up voter rolls, ensuring only eligible Utahns cast ballots, reducing fraud.

Our government depends on free and fair elections. This requires a secure process to safeguard our democracy. Our nation also benefits from greater voter participation, which vote-by-mail yields. We don’t have to give up one to get the other. Sen. Lee is right. It should be “easy to vote” but “hard to cheat,” but that doesn’t require the full elimination of by-mail ballots. I, and many of my fellow Utahns, will continue to ardently defend our right to perform our civic duty in fuzzy slippers.

Pignanelli: “Our country … was set up by the Constitution to be a federation of sovereign States, not administrative districts of a Federal Government that retained all the power itself.” — Ronald Reagan

In a Truth Social post, President Trump threatened an executive order to eliminate mail-in voting. He stated, “The States are merely an ‘agent’ for the Federal Government in counting and tabulating the votes.”

It is intriguing (to be kind) how few defenders of the Constitution objected to this convoluted understanding of federalism.

The Constitution authorizes states to appoint electors who will cast ballots for president and vice president without reference to public approval. Indeed, general elections were not used by most states to select electors until 1824. The role of states in determining the president and vice president is almost sacred in this representative democracy.

Utah honors this fundamental right of sovereignty by conducting efficient elections that are almost entirely free from fraud, thanks to a well-managed mailing system. Utahns have worked hard to achieve this success and will retain the benefits, regardless of any potential executive order.

All of Utah is in a drought condition. Parts of the state have faced similar challenges for most of the last 20 years. Lawmakers have been aggressive in funding and altering laws to save the Great Salt Lake and promote greater efficiency. But more is needed. Will it happen?

Cowley: I know firsthand the severity of this year’s drought conditions. My horse pastures have suffered, and our irrigation is getting shut off early. This is a casualty of living in a high, arid desert.

The Great Salt Lake, critical to our ecosystem and lifestyle, contributes to the greatest snow on earth, but experts say it will need an additional 770,000 acre-feet of water annually to reach ideal levels. That is more than twice the capacity of Jordanelle Reservoir.

We can’t legislate our way out of living in this climate. What we can do is be responsible and thrifty with the resources we have. Lush lawns and water-intensive landscaping need to be sacrificed to ensure we meet the bare minimum requirements for drinking water.

Pignanelli: Former speaker Brad Wilson deserves gratitude and respect for how he focused the attention of the Legislature on addressing the Great Salt Lake in water issues. Along with Gov. Spencer Cox and Senate President Stuart Adams, our state leaders adjusted funds and policies towards better use of our water resources. As a result, Utahns overwhelmingly responded by limiting their usage of water in many conservation efforts.

However, if nature continues a measly allocation of precipitation, further modifications to public policy regarding usage will be necessary, especially because of predicted growth. This will require sacrifice and a total collective readjustment towards this precious resource. Utah’s renowned legacy and commitment to excellence will drive practical and successful solutions.

Utah’s Supreme Court just ruled that Utah will need to draw new congressional district maps. Pending an appeal by the Legislature, these new maps will need to be finalized by November so that election officials can prepare for the election. What impact might this have on the upcoming election cycle?

Cowley & Pignanelli: This case will be appealed to the Utah Supreme Court, and possibly the U.S. Supreme Court, which will delay a decision for months, if not years.

Regardless of legal machinations, candidates will file for office in January. Many are already fundraising and readying campaign plans. This uncertainty on congressional maps is compounded by legislative election pressures — increased union involvement (an unavoidable outcome of the referendum) and a left-wing special interest group’s attempt to flip 10 districts from red to blue. If this ruling stands, we will be engaged in an interesting but turbulent election cycle.

NOTE: We recently passed the one-year anniversary of Renae participating in this column. Many readers, including me, are grateful for her perspective.

Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25 Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25

Utah’s legislative process remains strong

By Frank Pignanelli, Renae Cowley

Technically, the dog days of summer concluded, but the weather and politics remain hot. We explain this current heat wave.

The media has published several stories of some demanding the resignation of Senate President Stuart Adams. They are alleging that SB213, Criminal Justice Modifications (passed in 2024), was used to help a family member at a sentencing hearing. Was the legislative process thwarted?

Cowley & Pignanelli: “Information is the currency of democracy.” — author unknown

We passionately believe in, and have consistently advocated for, an open and transparent process in government. This experience confirms that state law cannot be altered outside the established process. Every bill must receive affirmative support through every step. No step can be skipped, nor can a majority opposition be bypassed at any point. Otherwise, the legislation fails.

Senate Bill 213 was introduced on February 8, 2024, and contained many amendments to the criminal justice system. On the front page, in the highlighted provisions, was a summary of language modifying the crime of adolescent sexual activity by an 18-year-old enrolled in high school.

The bill was heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee and passed 3-0. It passed the Senate 17-5-7 and no objection to this provision was offered. The language was reviewed in the House Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice committee and passed 6-0-6. The House of Representatives discussed SB213 on February 27, during which a question was raised about this provision. The House sponsor read the provision to the body, and it passed 67-4-4. Due to a House amendment unrelated to this issue, the bill was sent back to the Senate, where it passed 20-4-5. The governor signed SB213 on March 19, 2024.

Special interest organizations, prosecutors, defense lawyers and others reviewed the legislation during the process. (The public can view the legislative history at https://le.utah.gov/~2024/bills/static/SB0213.html.)

Many lawmakers sponsor legislation based on the input of constituents, friends, colleagues, family members and others. Regardless of where the concept originated, all bills undergo the same process, which allows for both discussion and debate.

The modification to public policy criminalizing sexual conduct between an 18-year-old high school student and a minor was approved in an open and transparent process. Those who disagree with the new policy can request a legislator to file legislation and submit it to the same examination SB213 underwent.

Because of the openness and transparency throughout the legislative consideration of SB213, the process was not thwarted. President Adams fulfilled his duties as a lawmaker by submitting this policy change to the scrutiny of a robust and transparent legislative process.

Last week, the primary results were finalized, or filing deadlines closed, in cities with ranked choice voting. What are the hotly contested municipal elections that politicos are watching?

Cowley & Pignanelli: Salt Lake City is maintaining the ranked choice voting system (RCV). Thus, there is no primary, only the general election on November 4. Two of the four city council races promise to be vigorous battles. Usually, incumbents have the advantage. However, due to RCV, a strong sentiment of anti-incumbency can have a greater impact. Therefore, observers are watching the elections in two council districts.

In District 1 (Fairpark, Jordan Meadows, Rose Park and Westpointe), incumbent Victoria Petro is challenged by Yussuf Abdi and Stephen Otterstrom. In District 3 (Avenues, Capitol Hill, Federal Heights, Guadalupe and Marmalade), incumbent Chris Wharton will face Blake McClary and Elizabeth Huntsman in the general election.

Municipal primaries, especially for at-large seats, serve as an electoral warm-up or audition for many candidates, where strategies are tested and voter turnout is scrutinized. We highlight a few such races.

The Provo mayoral primary was a tight two-way finish with just over a 2.5% margin between incumbent Mayor Michelle Kaufusi and former State Representative Marsha Judkins. As these women advance to the ballot in November, expect both to ramp up campaign efforts.

Highlighting a smaller city contest, the Vineyard municipal race is shaping up to be a faction fight where all candidates are aligned as either the “Hatfields” or the “McCoys.” Primary results yielded success from both sides. It will be interesting to see how these results impact each camp’s strategies in the lead-up to the general election.

Public disputes between Salt Lake City and state government leadership percolated last week. Some observers are wondering if the state government mirrors the Trump administration by assuming control of Los Angeles or Washington, D.C. Does this happen?

Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25 Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25

Congress’ unruly summer recess

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Congress is out of session with members on vacation or engaging with constituents. Normally the August recess is quiet, but this year has been radically different. We explore the current controversies and the potential impact on Utah politics.

Texas Republicans are attempting the very rare action of redrawing congressional boundaries mid-decade. Democratic Texas lawmakers fled the state to prevent a vote. Blue-state governors are threatening the same tactic. Utah could be forced into mid-decade redistricting from an upcoming court decision. What are the effects on national and local politics?

Cowley: The anticipated Texas maps will create new Hispanic Republican districts, but the real question is whether Texas should be doing this with unconventional timing. Trump and Gov. Abbott cite significant errors in the 2020 census as justification. Covid created numerous challenges during the last census. Counting immigrants living in the country illegally had an outsized impact in Texas, further skewing their numbers. Lastly, modern technology makes creating, then altering, these maps fairly easy and cheap, making a mid-decade fix less burdensome than before.

Before Democrats light torches and brandish pitchforks, keep in mind that Democrat-controlled California, Illinois and Maryland have some of the most egregiously gerrymandered maps in the country. New York’s Supreme Court found their Legislature had grossly ignored the rules when drawing lines, and continue to cross them. There are several infamously creative districts nationwide — for example, the “earmuff” in Illinois and the “lasso” in Arizona. Gerrymandering is a political tradition that isn’t exclusive to just Republicans or Democrats. Both have drawn districts that look more like ink blots than communities of interest.

Texas Democrats skipping town to avoid their duties as elected officials is cowardly but provides plenty of political theater. Districting is an intensely political act, so Democrats’ theatrics are hypocritical at best.

The pending decision from Utah’s highest court regarding redistricting could plunge Utah into the same mid-decade battle as Texas.

Pignanelli: “Stability in government is essential to national character … [and] among the chief blessings of civil society.” — James Madison, Federalist No. 37

I am not a constitutional scholar, but have read the document (many times), the Federalist Papers and other valuable treatises. Therefore, I believe when legislative bodies — Congress and state — surrender constitutional prerogatives to other branches of government or entities, they erode principles underlying our republic.

Thus I believe legislatures (including Texas) have the primary responsibility and authority for redistricting of federal and state offices. But to do so mid-decade is contrary to the spirit of our governing documents as articulated by the founders.

The Constitution creates a careful balance between an energetic government and one that assures stability. Conducting redistricting (except by court order) more than once every 10 years dramatically undermines confidence and dependability. If many states decide to redraw the boundaries every two to four years, chaos will dominate. There is a reason Texas’ dangerous path was rarely pursued in the past two centuries.

A Utah district court will soon rule on the next steps for a potential redrawing of congressional boundaries. The current national controversy will cause pressure on both sides for a partisan outcome. Next summer may bring more drama.

Congressional town hall meetings have become battlegrounds reflecting the current divisiveness in the country. Emotional outbursts, from enraged citizens or activists, are dominating such gatherings across the country. (This happened earlier in the year in Utah.) Some members are resorting to tele-town halls and other structured formats. Town halls are a longstanding tradition of our democracy, but are they becoming endangered?

Cowley: Times change and technology does along with it. People and businesses are regularly conducting important meetings virtually where even five years ago, they would have only been held in person. This evolving trend comes at a cost. People are less engaged and more distracted in virtual meetings. They are less personal, more sterile and highly censored.

I’m disappointed in the mob-like behaviors of my fellow Utahns who booed and jeered two of our hardworking members of Congress. I don’t blame elected officials for moving to a more controlled environment; I just hope this doesn’t lead to less access and accountability to constituents. If this becomes the norm, it will be harder to return to more authentic, in-person interactions.

Pignanelli: The town hall meeting is an American activity developed long before the republic was established. It is crushing to admit this important interchange between elected officials and voters is a victim to professional political tactics. Their goal of gathering clips for the media effectively prevents earnest audience members from engaging and influencing.

As an elected official, I conducted such meetings and found them invigorating and informative. Attendees came to learn or to disagree, but in a manner that allowed fellow participants to understand the discussion.

Artificial intelligence cannot save the town hall meetings, so the alternative — through electronic means or targeted groups — will become a mainstay in the near future.

Will this summertime partisan wrangling prevent the necessary compromises to avoid a government shutdown when Congress reconvenes next month?

Cowley: A looming shutdown used to seem a lot more ominous, but is overplayed. If Democrats try to drag it out too long, it will only work against their long-term goals, yet they will try.

Pignanelli: The unanticipated Texas redistricting will harden partisan differences. Consequently, a government shutdown is likely in October.

Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25 Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25

Do Utahns trust their institutions?

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

New polls and national special interest groups are raising issues about Utah politics. Whether you love the surveys or hate them, we love to talk about them.

A recent Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll asked voters about their respect for institutions. An average of 20% of respondents had zero confidence in the Utah Legislature, the governor, the U.S. Supreme Court and the Utah Supreme Court. Many Democrats showed no affection for the Legislature (47%) or Congress (57%). Republicans expressed higher levels of confidence in these institutions, but not all by resounding margins. Is this lack of trust, especially by Democrats, worrisome?

Cowley: Watergate, the Kennedy assassination, Epstein Files and COVID vaccine lies have all contributed to an overall erosion of trust in government. History has shown that the government has repeatedly lied to its citizens, and after enough betrayals, it is hard for many to believe in the ideal of a government “for the people.”

Utah Republicans were the most trusting of state institutions, and for good reason. Utah continually wins awards for having the best-managed state. Our economy is strong, and our communities are safe. The Republican-led Legislature consistently advances policies that their Republican constituents voted for; thus, satisfaction is higher.

Both Democrats and Republicans expressed the least amount of trust in Congress — a time-honored tradition for Utahns, considering the rocky relationship between our state’s founders and the feds.

It’s always the losing team that has the most criticism for the refs. Being a super minority in Utah, Democrats don’t get many wins, but perhaps they should redefine victory. Stop wasting effort trying to restore Roe v. Wade and focus on policies that benefit blue-collar workers.

Pignanelli: ”American democracy is not on the verge of disappearing. Americans are much deeper than the sum of their political beliefs ” — Deseret News Editorial Board

For more than 400 years, immigrants to this country left their homeland frustrated with religious, economic or government institutions. Native Americans, Black Americans and descendants of our state’s pioneer founders have legitimate historic issues with similar entities on this continent. Thus, Americans and Utahns are bred with some distrust for authority.

This emotion is especially exemplified by the Democrats’ confusing lower approval rating of the Utah Supreme Court, which recently delivered several setbacks to the Legislature (whom the minority party apparently does not trust).

But dismissive comments about the government do not accurately reflect deeply held beliefs. Participation in elections is relatively high. Every year, I witness thousands of people at the State Capitol protesting, speaking in committees, and interacting with lawmakers. Citizens inundate congressional offices with emails and attend town hall meetings. If there was no confidence, they would not engage with such vigor.

Many pundits opine that this lack of confidence is a threat to democracy. However, as the editorial board of this paper wisely stated, such allegations are unfounded. We are born and bred to challenge — and simultaneously engage with — our institutions.

The same poll indicated that 25% of GOP voters had no confidence in universities nationwide. Yet Utah Republicans and Democrats reported great respect for the Utah higher education system, with almost 60%. What does this say about Utah’s colleges and universities?

Cowley: Utah’s colleges and universities outpace their out-of-state cohorts on ROI and culture. If survey respondents’ collegiate experiences were anything like mine, they remember it as transformative. Attending Utah State University was one of the best decisions I ever made. There is still significant work to be done to modernize degree offerings, eliminate woke bias and make college affordable again, but Utah is on the right track.

Pignanelli: Throughout the country, large public and elite universities are plagued with controversies, which explains the discomfort. In Utah, the face of the higher education system is Taylor Randall, president of the University of Utah. His persona is especially exemplified as several other institutions have been without observable leadership.

Randall effectively addressed DEI issues raised at the Legislature and utilized the required re-allocation of funds to promote effective instruction. A native Utahn, he understands how to communicate and work with government, political, business and religious organizations. His success is benefiting the entire state system. Randall’s colleagues across the country would be astute to seek his guidance.

A national political action committee, “Save America,” will partner with the local lefty Elevate Utah PAC to spend at least $20,000 against Republican incumbent lawmakers. Will this make a difference in 2026?

Cowley: Out-of-state and out-of-touch Democrats likely saw the Utah Education Association’s highly successful signature-gathering efforts as a misguided sign that Utah is turning blue. It’s not.

$20,000 spread across 10 races intended to unseat incumbents is about as impactful as spilling a thimbleful of water in Moab. My compliments to their PR team for garnering coverage for this announcement, especially since many of those incumbents have wisely been using this as an opportunity to fundraise. Their grand scheme has backfired.

Pignanelli: Elevate Utah shrewdly captured valuable publicity, which promoted their causes. Many companies, organizations and special interest groups (on the left and right) spend much more on state races. The PAC may not spend anything significant, but it achieved impressive PR results through artful messaging. Such is politics.

Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25 Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25

Who is enduring the political heatwave?

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

The summer of 2025 is predicted to be among the hottest seasons in modern history — meteorologically and politically. This is causing internal strife within the parties. We explore who is weathering or flourishing in this weather.

Prolonged Epstein drama, unresolved wars, tumultuous tariff negotiations, deportation tactics and more are plaguing the Trump administration and Republicans. Yet, a Wall Street Journal poll shows that Trump’s approval ratings remain stagnant. Are Trump and the GOP invincible?

COWLEY: If an assassin’s bullet couldn’t bring Trump down, neither can a few political setbacks. Bad news just doesn’t stick to him. One reason, I believe, is that the American public is tired of politicians’ empty promises and do-nothing leaders. Even when things don’t go according to plan, Trump supporters are willing to stick by him because they are grateful he is at least trying to do something — akin to Theodore Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena.”

Yet, enough self-inflicted faux pas will eventually start to wear down Trump’s credibility. Much like the boy who cried wolf, supporters might be able to get past his about-face on the Epstein files, but Trump better be darn sure about his accusations against Obama, or his credibility, which is already hanging on by a thread, will be shot.

PIGNANELLI: “You don’t always have to outrun the bear. You just have to outrun the guy next to you. So, that’s pretty clear in politics.” — Former RNC Chair Reince Priebus.

Hard-core rules of politics guided humans for millennia and will continue to do so despite artificial intelligence. Trump and Republicans are following two fundamental principles: demonstrating strength and taking action rather than doing nothing. Despite what our species may think of the persons fomenting change, many are attracted to such energy.

The GOP is benefiting especially because the opposition is weak (more on that below). So far, the stock market and significant portions of the economy have adapted to the stop-and-start actions of Trump. The big, beautiful bill has problems, but it signals momentum.

Polling experts now claim that 40% is the new 50% in terms of positive approval because the country is divided. This dynamic, along with Trump’s solid support in his party, is contributing to this defense against controversies.

Another rule of politics is that no political faction is invincible forever. However, the GOP’s favorability seems durable for some time.

The same WSJ poll shows 63% of voters hold an unfavorable view of the Democratic Party, noting a “far weaker assessment than voters give to either President Trump or the Republican Party.” Newsweek conducted a hypothetical survey of the 2028 presidential match-up with JD Vance dominating the field of Democrats and Kamala Harris gaining the most support among her party. What does this mean for the future of the Democratic Party?

COWLEY: The survey shows 63% of voters view the Democratic Party unfavorably. That is a pretty deep hole to dig out of, especially when you consider only a measly 8% view the Democrats “very favorably,” compared to 19% for Republicans.

Hoping and praying Trump’s popularity fades isn’t a winning strategy. Democrats have been gifted countless opportunities in the current political climate and haven’t capitalized on any of them. Whoever the Democratic nominee will be needs to throw out the current playbook, because it simply isn’t working. California Gov. Gavin Newsom seems the most willing to do just that. He’s launched a review of California’s COVID response and acknowledges the very obvious truth that males competing in women’s sports have a biological advantage. Newsom has charisma, patriotism, optimism and likeability — all traits Harris struggles with. He’s also following Trump’s playbook, making the rounds on bro-style podcasts. Given time, his popularity is likely to rise.

PIGNANELLI: Another key rule of politics is that you have to fight something with something. The Democrats don’t have something (a progressive ideology isn’t working). The New York Times published an early obituary for the party (authored by Yale professor Daniel Martinez HoSang), explaining the drift of minorities to Republicans. A restructuring of society, combined with concerns for the economy and public safety shared by people of all colors, eroded the Democratic Party base.

For over two decades in this column, I have criticized politicians on the right and left extremes for their policies. Yet, I never accused them of treason, because such would be a betrayal of American principles. Barack Obama is a decent individual who is good to his family and did what he thought best for this country. A strong, loyal opposition is needed to push back forcefully against outrageous and dangerous accusations that he is a traitor. This should be enough incentive for Democrats to develop a new voice and practical ideology.

Will these trends have any impact on Utah elections and politics?

COWLEY: Utahns are accustomed to complete and total Republican domination, but I would be curious to see a Utah-specific poll of Vance’s approval. Will he fare better than Trump in the Beehive State, who has historically underperformed, or will the stain of Vance’s predecessor transfer to him?

PIGNANELLI: In Utah general elections, it’s always about the swing districts. If Republicans maintain their resilience, Democrats will face difficulty gaining in these contests. However, a blue wave, fueled by a struggling economy and other GOP controversies, will bolster those efforts.

Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25 Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25

Our suggested parade floats for Utah politicians and others

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 week, we celebrate Pioneer Day, a unique Utah holiday that honors all Utahns who were, or are currently, pioneers in various ways. While the rest of the country is at work, most of our citizens will be attending parades, picnics, rodeos and fireworks as a way to acknowledge the fantastic people who built the greatest place on Earth to live.

The famous parade through downtown Salt Lake City remains a key feature of this historic celebration, which honors traditional virtues, even if our ancestors were not part of the original pioneer company crossing the plains. Political themes are banned in the Days of ’47 parade, but we can’t help but envision what parade floats politicos and others would create.

Gov. Spencer Cox: Riding on a flatbed truck with a waterfall slip and slide, preceded by a huge banner proclaiming, “Please pray for rain and ignore the cynics. It worked the last time.”Sen. Mike Lee: Dressed in a cowboy outfit, holding a banner with friends stating, “Proud to bring together local ranchers, hunters and environmentalists … to oppose my public lands bill.”

Public Service Commission: Walking together, tossing out rock-hard salt water taffy to parade observers and holding a banner: “Enjoy the treats, either by eating them or throwing them at the Rocky Mountain Power float.”

Rocky Mountain Power Execs: Dressed as Doc Brown from “Back to the Future,” driving a DeLorean, desperately trying to create enough gigawatts to meet Utah’s growing need for power, with the sign “You may be mad, but you need us.”

NPR and PBS: They couldn’t afford a float this year, but staff will walk the parade route, shaking a tin cup, asking for donations, shouting, “Please remember Big Bird and Mr. Rogers.”

Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson: Playing the role of a Pony Express rider, Utah’s chief election officer will deliver municipal primary election ballots along the route while assuring voters that by-mail elections are safe and secure. (Your authors would like to remind readers that ballots arrive this week.)

Elon Musk: Unhappy with last year’s parade, he will be organizing his own on July 25th in Wendover.

Sen. John Curtis: Dressed as a warrior holding a spear, shouting, “I’m leading the charge on Social Security reform. Millennials and Gen Zers, you’re welcome!”

Utah Congressional Delegation — Burgess Owens, Blake Moore, Celeste Maloy and Mike Kennedy: Walking down the parade route, locking arms, while holding a banner: “We love the Big Beautiful Bill. Something for everyone and Trump leaves us alone.”

Canadians in Utah: Will be sitting on a large float, with a large loudspeaker shouting the message: “Keep the apologies coming, and we will continue the maple syrup flowing.”

Utah Supreme Court Justices: In their robes, carrying a banner: “Proud to be a constitutionally protected third branch of government … just saying.”

Utah Senate President Stuart Adams: In an effort to address Utah’s growing energy concerns, President Adams will be dressed as the wizard of Menlo Park, Thomas Edison, atop a small cell nuclear reactor, proclaiming, “Let there be light!”

Speaker Mike Schultz: Portraying a wagon boss while donning a 10-gallon hat, he’ll be driving a chuck wagon equally yoked with representatives from Utah’s colleges and universities, each pulling their weight.
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall: Eagerly waves to passersby aboard a brightly embellished rainbow flag float — the official float of Salt Lake City.

Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson: Wearing a deep blue dress atop a bright red float with the banner, “Providing the needed liberal voice in the ocean of conservatives.”

Brad Wilson, Olympic Committee Chairman: Atop a medal ceremony podium, shouting, “Make Winter Olympics Great Again!”

Ryan Smith: Riding a life-size animatronic mammoth in celebration of the Utah Hockey Club’s official mascot, while proclaiming, “Mammoths are cooler than Yetis, right!?”

Sen. Dan McCay and Rep. Trevor Lee: Both will be patrolling the parade route vigilantly on the lookout for any banners that do not conform to legislative standards, keeping an eye out for flags with extra colors, unauthorized stripes or the year “1847” inscribed on them.

Pam Bondi: Making an unexpected appearance in Utah’s celebration will be dressed as a magician, showing observers a folder labeled “Epstein Files: Classified” and saying, “Now you see them, now you don’t!”

Republican Party leadership: Will be burning candidate signature packets with “Braveheart” blue-painted faces, ready to charge up the hill and fight to the death to restore the caucus/convention-only system, but aren’t exactly sure how to go about it.

Democratic Party leadership: A smaller entry as compared to their Republican colleagues, they proudly march down State Street holding a banner saying, “Utah Democrats have a proud legacy. Please ignore Zohran Mamdani.”

Cowley & Pignanelli: Renae will ably ride her favorite steed in full rodeo regalia. Frank will perform his traditional function: walking behind the parade, scooping the poop.

Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25 Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25

The political climate is warming

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

The political climate is consistently changing and often unpredictable. This includes the ongoing fissures in the Democratic party, new cracks inside MAGA Republicans and the possibility of a new party. We review these intriguing events.

With his wealth, eccentric personality and leadership of 21st-century technologies (electric cars, modern rockets and social media platforms), Elon Musk’s musing on developing an alternative political party has captured much attention. This effort has been tried many times and failed, so is it doable — even for a billionaire?

Cowley: The new pet project of the world’s wealthiest man has the consultant class jumping for joy. Although not without some campaign credibility (Elon’s America PAC successfully ran Trump’s ground game in 2024), creating a viable third party, let alone qualifying for the ballot in various states, is about as difficult as launching rockets into space.

I’m unconvinced that voters actually want a new party; rather, their initial support for Elon’s effort demonstrates their frustration with the vitriol between both mainstream parties.

Displaced Democrats like RFK Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard seem to have found a home with MAGA, but Elon must recruit candidates with star power if his new party is to stand a chance.

Pignanelli: “Third-party politics has always had an element of romance.” — John Kenneth Galbraith

Knowledgeable experts quickly dismiss a third party, because a new alternative entrant has not succeeded since the 1850s. The attempts made gained notoriety but little else. Democrats and Republicans are enduring internal strife, but dominate the election process with thousands of local, state and federal elected officials. Thus, history suggests that there is little traction for Musk’s proposal.

However, history also reveals that our current political and social environment is ripe for a new movement. I recall the Ross Perot phenomenon, which was driven by extreme dissatisfaction with both parties — a situation that exists today. Progressives guide the ideology of Democrats, and MAGA controls Republican actions, which explains the expansion of independent voters, as recent polls indicate.

The strongest argument against third parties is their inability to effectively fundraise, mobilize voters and disseminate their messaging. These concerns are obliterated by 21st-century technology (as evidenced by the elections of Donald Trump, the New York mayoral contest, etc.). Retail politics continues to evolve, benefiting upstarts.

Unless either party adjusts its trajectory within the next 10 years, a strong alternative is likely to emerge.

Democratic Socialist Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani defied expectations and captured the Democratic nomination for New York mayor. This victory for progressives is deepening antagonisms with moderates nationwide. MAGA true believers are openly condemning high-level Trump administration officials for recent actions deflating conspiracy theories and confusing tariff policies. Are these divisions just minor wrinkles or an internal civil war?

Cowley: I am more confused than ever about what the real story is behind Jeffrey Epstein. What I do know is someone in the Trump administration is lying. Fractures among supporters aren’t just about who is on the list, if it exists, or how Epstein died. It’s a litmus test for the Trump White House whether they really will be the most transparent administration or are beholden to political elites and the deep state. Honesty is not just the best policy; it is a requirement for MAGA supporters.

Tariffs generated $27 billion in revenue in June alone. This isn’t the ultimate goal of tariffs, but will help ease new deficits created in the “Big Beautiful Bill.” Long term, Trump tariffs are intended to lessen our reliance on foreign goods by increasing domestic manufacturing. Should this policy succeed, we will see even greater revenues through job growth, sales tax, etc. Unfortunately, vast economic shifts like this take time to come to fruition, perhaps longer than what remains of Trump’s term in office.

I can’t decide if Zohran Mamdani is wildly naive or deeply sinister, but New York voters have fallen victim to his rage-baiting. Just as Biden attempted to buy off voters with false promises of canceling student loan debt, Mamdani is exploiting people’s financial hardships by offering an “easy government fix” for complex problems. Market manipulation and government-run grocery stores are a dangerous step towards socialism.

Pignanelli: The MAGA soldiers grumble but have nowhere else to go. The New York mayor’s race documents Democrats’ ongoing problems. Left-wing progressives control the ideology and passion, while the older officials waste resources on outdated strategies to bolster worn-out candidates. This is a lopsided boxing match.

Will any of the struggles have an impact on Utah politics?

Cowley: The devil is in the details. Utah voters like to shake things up, yet Elon will need viable candidates if his new party is going to gain any traction.

Utah has been more reluctant to support Trump than other red states, but it’s unlikely that Epstein espionage will be the issue that turns Utah blue. At best, it might be fodder for voters to side-eye future Trump-endorsed candidates.

Pignanelli: Utah is attracted to alternative candidates. Theodore Roosevelt’s Bull Moose party received over 20% in 1912, and Ross Perot placed second in the 1992 race with 27%. Independent Evan McMullin captured 21.5% percent in his 2016 presidential bid and 42.7% as a Senate candidate. Third-party activists should do more than just fly over Utah, and spend time here.

Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25 Foxley & Pignanelli 8/27/25

Are Utah women the new political force?

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Political operatives enjoy identifying and predicting trends in voters’ behavior. We examine new information regarding a dynamic shift and whether recent congressional action could lead to emerging trends.

The Utah State University “Utah Women & Leadership Project” reported on voting patterns in Utah. In 2006, Utah ranked 51st in the nation, with 36.8% of female voters participating; by 2024, it had risen to 67.3%, ranking 29th nationally. Also noted was that Utah leads the country with volunteer and community services, predominantly led by women. How will this affect politics?

COWLEY: Utah has a rich history of women participating in politics, from Seraph Young being the first woman in the United States to vote, to Kanab being one of the first all-women-led cities, to Martha Hughes Cannon, who, among her many accolades, became Utah’s first female state senator by defeating her husband.

I’m grateful my beloved USU conducted this rigorous study. The evidence sustains that voters of the fairer sex are an important demographic, but are far from homogeneous in political preferences. One’s political values cannot be distilled down to gender alone. Religion, community, ethnicity and age are all contributing factors.

There are some obvious explanations for the ebbs and flows of female voter turnout in Utah. The 2012 bump was evidence of enthusiasm for Utah’s adopted son, Mitt Romney, running for president. In 2016, Utah men and women turned out in droves to support Evan McMullin, demonstrating our willingness to buck two-party norms.

Utah embodies the spirit of “neighbor helping neighbor.” The study’s findings on service are not surprising and a source of immense pride for my fellow stateswomen.

PIGNANELLI: “It was we, the people; not we, the white male citizens; nor yet we, the male citizens; but we, the whole people, who formed the Union.” — Susan B. Anthony

A half-century of political involvement has provided me with knowledge that women voters, elected officials and appointed officials may be fewer in number, but have an equal — and often greater — impact than their male counterparts.

This understanding is also derived from my mother, a three-term Holladay City Councilmember; my wife, a city manager, Utah director of administrative services and state tax commissioner; my strong, opinionated daughter, sisters and business partner; etc.

Most of the powerful trade and nonprofit government relations organizations are led or strongly influenced by women. Their impact on the public policy process is apparent during the legislative session, in county and city meetings, and throughout various agencies.

According to the surveys, Utah women’s highest priorities are affordable housing, civility among elected officials and inflation. Regardless of gender and political affiliation, all candidates should take note of this significant expansion of the electorate and their needs.

In the latest poll from the Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics conducted by HarrisX, the results suggest that Trump enjoys greater support among men than women in Utah. Will the “Big Beautiful Bill” impact Utah voters, especially women?

COWLEY: Women have been understandably repulsed by Trump’s brash manner and moral shortcomings. Although in 2024, women nationally supported Trump by a larger margin, Utah women were less willing to overlook his character defects.

Women primarily manage the household budget. They are on the frontlines when egg prices rise, inflation surges and mortgage rates shoot through the roof. As such, Trump’s signature fiscal bill is of great importance to women. There are numerous provisions I expect budget-conscious women will appreciate, including increasing state and local tax deductions, increasing the child tax credit, and no tax on tips.

PIGNANELLI: According to a recent Washington Post/Ipsos poll, 42% of Americans opposed the bill and 23% supported it, but 34% had no opinion. This implies there is a blank slate and an opportunity for either party. However, the spin doctors must avoid patronizing messaging that offends women. The parties that construct the best case will have the most influence.

Does partisanship change in Utah because of women or Trump’s budget bill?

COWLEY: Women are not monolithic in their political priorities. Just as some dislike the bill for imposing work requirements on select Medicaid recipients, others are rejoicing over the 2017 tax cuts becoming permanent. It’s unlikely this singular bill will shift political tides in Utah.

The budget bill will likely be old news by the time midterms roll around, but if they play their cards right, it could provide opportunities for Democrats as it adds $3.4 trillion to federal deficits over the next ten years. Even as a conservative, I’m gravely concerned this unpaid bill will be left to our children, yet, given the current state of dysfunction in the Democratic Party, it is unlikely they can propose a better alternative.

Although I think Elon Musk’s attempt to form a new party is idiotic, misguided and will only result in the Ross Perot-ing of swing elections, I am not counting out the ability of the world’s richest man to be a disrupter, nor Utahns’ historical willingness to support third-party candidates.

PIGNANELLI: National pundits believe the recent legislation helps Democrats to salvage their electoral chances. However, it is unclear how changes to Medicaid alter the trajectory of elections. If the bill is viewed in conjunction with other actions, as supporting or hindering the priorities of Utah women, the result could be fluctuations in the usual outcomes.