Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Fireworks not the only explosions in the Beehive State

Fireworks exploded in the past two weeks, but not all were ignited in celebration of our nation's independence. We explore some of the hot national political topics and how they could impact the Beehive State.

Cable and Internet news sources almost melted from the heat generated by millions of comments in response to Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump. The New York billionaire disparaged illegal immigrants from Mexico and some of his claims were simply untrue. But Trump is running well in some of the Republican presidential polls. How does this impact national and state GOP efforts to broaden their base in the next election?

Pignanelli: “Trump is a car accident candidacy. You don't want to slow down. You don't want to look. But there's always traffic because everybody slows down and everybody looks.”—Chris Cillizza, The Washington Post

The American electorate should be grateful to the Republican presidential candidates. Apparently they decided to concede the election 15 months early and avoid a nasty campaign season. Nothing else can explain their collective failure to immediately and unequivocally distance themselves from Trump’s racist allegations that Mexican immigrants are drug-dealing criminals and rapists. This was a blown opportunity for the GOP to embrace families of Mexican origin and build the coalition they must have to win in 2016.

Trump’s continual spewing of outrageous slurs finally forced long-overdue responses from presidential aspirants — mostly weak, to keep favor with Trump’s bigoted supporters. In addition to offending Americans of every color, the GOP now has a new problem. If the wannabe presidents are frightened of confronting the billionaire buffoon, how can our country have confidence they will stand up to the real bullies — Putin, the Ayatollahs, ISIS?

Webb: Republicans should denounce Trump as a cartoonish troglodyte who has no business running for president. Trouble is, enough fellow trogs exist in the GOP base for Trump to enjoy 10 or 12 percent support, which is enough to keep him going in a multicandidate field. It’s also enough to keep Republican leaders mostly quiet about Trump’s antics, not wanting to offend the hardcore, anti-immigrant base.

Trump has no chance of winning the nomination or the presidency, but he’s already damaging the Republican brand. Other candidates and GOP leaders should make it clear he doesn’t represent them.

U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., is churning excitement among left-wing activists in his bid for the Democrat presidential nomination. He is gaining on Hillary Clinton in key states. How does this impact national and state Democrats?

Pignanelli: For years, mainstream Democratic candidates could appeal to centrist moderates and extreme left-wing voters. But now the feisty Vermonter is forcing an uncomfortable decision. Sanders is a famous committed socialist whose agenda is identical to the Progressive wing of the Democratic Party (members of which are embracing him in droves). Therefore, Democrats aligned with Progressives will be labeled “socialist” by their Republican opponents. This will happen nationally and in Utah (which has a small but strong Progressive faction). Regardless of the results of the 2016 elections, this dynamic will haunt Democrats for years.

Webb: Go Bernie! Hopefully, he will drive Clinton to the left and she will be less appealing to mainstream voters in the general election. She needs a taste of what Republicans are going through.

In reality, Sanders is like a Pekingese biting her ankles. He will be an irritant but won’t make much difference.

Let’s all send a few bucks to Joe Biden and encourage him to get in the race. That would be fun to watch. Clinton needs some competition.

Financial insiders have watched with some nervousness the debt crisis plaguing Greece and now Puerto Rico. Are these circumstances unique, or do they offer some lessons and threats to our nation?

Pignanelli: Americans are ambivalent, or amused, by the activities in Greece. But a similar situation is occurring on American soil, and there is no smiling. Puerto Rico could be the "sleeper" issue for the 2016 elections. How congressional and presidential candidates develop solutions and responses will either be an opportunity to demonstrate leadership on government debt or drown in a quagmire of political mush.

Webb: The United States is also hopelessly in debt and owes many trillions more in unfunded obligations. The difference is that investors have lost confidence in Greece. The day purchasers of U.S. debt lose confidence in our government’s ability to pay, we will also be in trouble. Or if interest rates go up, our debt suddenly becomes dramatically more expensive.

If we continue on our present course, debt payments plus entitlement spending will crowd out all other discretionary spending.

Credible experts and commissions keep warning that we are on a Greecelike trajectory. And we keep ignoring them. Greece proves that the day of reckoning will come. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the fiscal 2015 deficit will be $486 billion. That means the U.S. government is borrowing $1.33 billion EVERY DAY(!!) to keep the federal programs going.

I will be just fine. I’ll get my Social Security and Medicare. But my children and grandchildren? I apologize for the mess my generation is leaving behind.

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Charleston shooting has sparked national discussion on racism

A horrific massacre in a South Carolina church has sparked a national discussion on racism and the symbols of the Confederacy. But, as usually happens in America, tragedy provides a new foundation on which to improve ourselves. Utah citizens have also been engaged in this debate.

While the nation was mourning, Utah captured negative media attention as the Orem Owlz baseball team sponsored a "Caucasian Heritage" night. And the Herriman Days parade proudly featured Utah’s black Congresswoman Mia Love, but also an entry by the Utah division of the Sons of Confederate Veterans. Did our state react appropriately?

Pignanelli: “Each generation wants new symbols, new people, new names.” — Jim Morrison

Utahns expressing disgust with Owlz management must back off. Then they can rest a few days and renew their legitimate attacks with even greater vigor against these clueless individuals who deserve ridicule — especially for their lame apology. The Owlz silly event is not only an offense to people of color, it's an insult to all humanity.

Our good state did not deserve the nasty international backlash this nonsense created. Most Utahns are tolerant and accepting of different faiths, cultures, colors and sexual orientation. For example, long before the events of last week, Dixie State University students and faculty demanded elimination of the Confederate inspired mascot and team name. The Rebel moniker was replaced with “Red Storm.”

The Herriman parade committee deserves a pass as most Utahns did not understand — or care — anything about the “Sons of Confederate Veterans.” The group is committed to “the vindication of the cause for which we fought.” Apparently, they want to reverse 150 years of freedom for all citizens. (That is some grudge!) Hopefully, future public activities in Utah will not be blemished with such misguided longings.

Webb: Certainly, Utah is sensitized to these issues and those two incidents sparked plenty of criticism. I believe we should eliminate symbols that are offensive or can be construed as bigoted, even if no racism or slur is intended. If these symbols are hurtful, we ought to be rid of them.

But eliminating the symbols of racism is easy. It might make us feel good, but it doesn’t solve the underlying problems of poverty, crime and homelessness, and especially the plague of black-on-black violence, pervasive in inner city communities.

Unfortunately, in all this debate over symbols, the real problems are mostly being ignored. Preventing teen pregnancy, keeping families intact, keeping young people in school, solving the problems of structural, generational poverty — those are the hard things.

And I reject the notion that racism is the root cause of those problems. Yes, we have racists. We also have terrorists and murderers. We’re not a racist nation any more than we’re a criminal or terrorist nation. Racists are aberrant. Those who resort to violence are deviant monsters. They are not what America is.

Mitt Romney was one of the first national political leaders to call for the removal of the Confederate flag from the South Carolina statehouse. Did this have an impact? Did the Republican presidential contenders react appropriately?

Pignanelli: Romney's anti-flag tweet received loads of media attention because reporters knew he was sending an important signal that prominent mainstream Republicans would not be bullied by Southern right wingers. Other national GOP leaders telegraphed their personal choice, but did not make any demands out of deference to “states rights.” Such dodges were frustrating, but later revealed to be the right choice as South Carolina leaders were making plans for the historic announcement on Monday. Perceived pressure from out-of-state candidates may have derailed this.

Webb: Romney got out in front of this issue and set the right tone. I didn’t see the response of each GOP candidate, but I’m confident that none of them are racist. It doesn’t bother me if they don’t discuss the Confederate flag as long as they propose workable solutions to the underlying problems, including strengthening families and ensuring educational opportunities.

Springing from the Charleston murders is a movement across the country, and in this state, to remove Confederate memorabilia from government and commercial activities. Overreaction or long overdue?

Pignanelli: America is great because we are constantly reinventing and improving ourselves. Confederate symbols are irrelevant in the 21st century. Poignant expressions of forgiveness made by families of the Charleston martyrs represent the new standards of courage and community. The loss of the nine souls unleashed a wonderful transformation in the American psyche.

Webb: The heinous crime in South Carolina was certainly an act of racism. It should motivate us to work harder to eradicate racism, continuing the excellent progress made over the last half century. Removing symbols that are offensive is certainly part of that. But, again, if all we do is remove symbols we haven’t really accomplished much.

I agree with a lot of black conservative politicians and commentators who say inner city crime and poverty is caused a whole lot more by the breakdown of the family and a dysfunctional welfare system than by racism.

It’s worth reading the inspirational story of Ben Carson, whose mother, in very difficult circumstances, used strict discipline, a laser focus on education, and high expectations to lift her children out of poverty and into success. He is now running for president of the United States.

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Brouhaha exploding around Becker's firing of Burbank

Last week saw the entry of more presidential candidates, the collapse of the trade agreement and a court appearance by a former attorney general. But Utah political tongues were wagging most about the brouhaha exploding in Salt Lake City — Mayor Ralph Becker’s firing of Police Chief Chris Burbank. We can’t resist sharing our opinions.

It appears most Utahns believe this matter was handled poorly by City Hall. How big a problem is it for Becker’s re-election campaign?

Pignanelli: "Political necessities sometime turn out to be political mistakes." — George Bernard Shaw

The kerfuffle is attracting more attention and "tut-tutting" because it emphasizes perceived weaknesses within the Becker administration (out of touch with everyday operations, traveling too much, etc.). The controversy is further highlighted because Becker is not burdened with other disgraces. Parking kiosks, pesky bike lanes (which I really hate) and business complaints are small beer compared to the problems of his predecessors. If Becker maintains his usual, cool statesmanlike demeanor in response to criticisms in this matter, his challengers — especially Jackie Biskupskiand Luke Garrott — will bludgeon the mayor on the vulnerability.

Becker is at heart a policy wonk committed to environmental and human rights causes. But he can be a very shrewd politician. If the normally reserved Becker uses passion to explain his actions, the dispute is a tool to harvest the strong emotions city voters possess on privacy and sexual harassment. Becker's alter ego could transform this supposed crisis into an election year advantage.

Thankfully, watching this drama unfold partially fills the void caused by the season ending of “Game of Thrones.”

Webb: For Republicans like me, it’s entertaining to watch a politically progressive mayor brawl with his politically progressive police chief. In reality, there’s plenty of blame to go around. Becker and Burbank should have been able to work out their differences and shown a united front against sexual harassment long before it came to the point of an explosive firing. It should not have taken a notice of claim by the three women involved to bring this matter to a head.

Burbank was a visible and popular chief who appeared to run a highly professional operation. He supported his officers and the need for rigorous law enforcement, while also being sensitive to the concerns of minority groups and the nationwide soul-searching over police brutality.

Certainly, the police chief serves at the pleasure of the mayor, and if the mayor had lost confidence in him it was time to make a change. But the abruptness of the firing was a shock, and Becker is paying a political price. He has time to recover, but the incident is a setback in his bid for a third term.

Both Becker and Burbank have received criticism for the city’s handling of the sexual harassment allegations. Did they bungle this or is that just the nature of such controversies?

Pignanelli: Police Chief Burbank is extremely popular (I love the guy) who deserves the fondness of city residents for an amazing career. But there is another dynamic: almost every city voter has a cellphone, treasures the privacy of their family members and friends, and abhors sexual harassment. These emotions trump affection for the chief.

The demands of SLC residents for speedy action and deep punishment for offenders, in response to the outrageous violations the female police officers suffered, were not satisfied. Although clumsy in delivery, Becker finally resolved the matter.

Webb: Unfortunately, the sexual harassment issue has almost become lost in the publicity over the abrupt firing. Becker was obviously trying to show he has no tolerance for sexual harassment and he didn’t like the fact that the apparent perpetrator essentially enjoyed six months of paid vacation and then retired with full benefits.

But remember that the sexual harassment started four years ago in 2011. The review boards substantiated the claims by January 2014, a year and a half ago, and the perpetrator had been placed on paid administrative leave in November 2013. So Becker and Burbank had plenty of time to thoroughly air this matter, work out their differences, support the victims, and demonstrate zero tolerance for sexual harassment. It’s unfortunate they did not do so.

The claims of the three women may yet be vetted in court proceedings, so this story is not over.

An interesting twist to the story is how embattled state Rep. Justin Miller is trying to blame his problems on the police chief. While this accusation gets sorted out, House Democrats unanimously called for the resignation of their colleague Miller. Did these Democrats handle the issue appropriately?

Pignanelli: Miller admitted to theft on tape. He is attempting to destroy Mayor Ben McAdams — who gave him an opportunity to succeed. He refuses to offer his colleagues information about the allegations to help spare them embarrassment. Regardless of actual charges filed, Miller is guilty of political crimes. Minority Leader Brian King and his caucus handled this well.

Webb: In the Republican state of Utah, the only top seats Democrats control are the Salt Lake City and Salt Lake County mayorships. Now Democrats are forming circular firing squads in both entities to kill each other off. For such a small party, Democrats seem bent on self-destruction.

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Utah political leaders ascend to top positions

Utah state leaders are ascending to top positions in their various national organizations. And some Utah members of Congress enjoy powerful chairmanships. We look at Utah’s political power, and other current issues.

Are we seeing the zenith of Utah influence on the nation?

Pignanelli: "In Utah, there are no bad things in the water there. It's just smooth, really beautiful." — Steve Guttenberg

Notwithstanding the recent controversies of prior attorneys general and (a soon-to-be former) Democratic lawmaker, Utah officials are dedicated, ethical and friendly individuals. Therefore, it is no surprise that colleagues in other states catapult them to prominence. It is always a safe bet to select a Utahn to lead an organization. Our whole culture is focused on preparation, organization, consensus building and providing quality. (Of course, there's the added bonus of no outrageous bar tabs at meetings.)

More importantly, our leaders shine on the national scene because of whom they represent. They are reflecting the strong work ethic, honesty and determination shared by almost all Utahns. Our state and local governments are well-managed not just from decisions made by elected politicians, but also because that's who we are.

Utah is definitely punching above its weight class in Washington, D.C., and among numerous national organizations. This is a testimony to the quality of our leaders, but also a shining example of "Utah Exceptionalism." So take a moment and pat yourself on the back.

Webb: With Gov. Gary Herbert chairing the National Governors Association, and Curt Bramble presiding over the National Conference of State Legislators, and Wayne Niederhauser taking top positions in the Assembly of States and the American Legislative Exchange Council, and Ralph Becker leading the National League of Cities, and Sens. Orrin Hatch, Rob Bishop and Jason Chaffetz chairing powerful congressional committees, I suggest these good Utahns collaboratively produce and promote a far-reaching agenda to leverage their leadership positions and accomplish something truly meaningful.

I humbly propose, while they enjoy the national spotlight and are leading their peers from across the country, that they jointly develop a practical, common-sense, progressive federalism agenda to responsibly devolve power from the federal government to states. If Republicans win the presidency next year and maintain control of Congress, the agenda could become the blueprint for a rejuvenation of balanced federalism and a promising new era in American governance.

But the agenda would have to be developed and communicated smartly and responsibly, with a focus on good governance, not on ideology. The worst thing that has happened to federalism is that it has been co-opted by the far right and has been associated with racism and slashing programs for the less fortunate. It doesn’t have to be that way. A great case can be made for balanced federalism as the responsible and workable solution to a lot of the nation’s problems.

It would be an ambitious agenda. Perhaps they could ask former Gov. Mike Leavitt, who did some great work in federalism, to chair a joint working group.

They’re in the right positions. Why not go for something big — something historic?

Utah is a hot spot for medical device manufacturing. Next week the medical device tax will be debated in Congress. Should it be repealed? 

Pignanelli: The wonderful aspect about the medical device tax is that it provides such a clear unambiguous textbook example of how really dumb counterproductive provisions are placed into law by intelligent people with fancy degrees. Congressional staff was desperately looking for different revenue sources to fund health care reform and determined medical device manufacturers profit under the new law (more patients with more insurance means more devices) and so these companies should help fund programs. Using this logic, cancer survivors should pay an additional tax because they benefit from federal grants sponsoring medical research. The fee is so outrageous that liberals and conservatives are uniting behind a repeal. So Congress has no excuse.

Webb: Only an ultra-liberal Democratic president and an ultra-liberal Democratic Congress hell-bent on funding a big, new unpopular federal program could have dreamed up a tax as bad as the medical device tax.

And, yes, that’s exactly what happened. To help pay for Obamacare, President Barack Obama and his Democratic Congress in 2010 imposed a gross revenue tax on the medical device manufacturing industry. It is a terrible tax because it singles out one industry and taxes gross revenue instead of profits.

One of Utah’s most successful businessmen, Fred Lampropoulos, the chairman and CEO of Merit Medical Systems, which employs nearly 1,500 people in Utah, notes the tax has increased Merit’s federal taxes by 41 percent. It is driving businesses and jobs overseas. It should be repealed.

This year’s Legislature gave counties the authority to place a proposal for a quarter cent sales tax increase on the ballot to pay for transportation projects and road maintenance. Should counties place the proposal on the ballot this year, or wait until the general election in 2016?

Pignanelli: The local option tax is the culmination of thousands of hours of negotiations between many parties in the last legislative session. A result of these discussions is that the Utah Transit Authority receives a portion of new monies generated. While the goals of enhancing public transportation are important, this organization remains controversial. Salt Lake County municipalities support placing the issue on the 2015 ballot. But many elected officials are nervous about pushback from voters because of angst with UTA. So expect creative political messaging from the county this fall.

Webb: Municipal elections aren’t usually the best time to vote on county-wide ballot proposals. But because essentially all of Salt Lake County will be voting anyway, and because many cities and counties will use vote-by-mail systems, voting participation should be high. So it makes sense to go forward this year. The money is badly needed by local governments for local roads, biking and walking trails, and to improve public transit.

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: For springtime, we stop to smell the political roses

In a bit of a springtime twist, May showers are bringing June flowers. We stop to smell the political roses.

Politicos are awaiting a special legislative session to address Healthy Utah, the governor’s Medicaid expansion program. A new player is now on the scene: the billionaire Koch brothers’ super PAC Americans for Prosperity has opened an office in Utah. What impact will this have?

Pignanelli: “Money has always been in politics. And I'm not sure you'd want money to be completely out of politics.” — Bill Gates

Proponents of Medicaid expansion dominate the media with compelling arguments to increase medical coverage. Republican and Democrat politicians, business and community leaders push the PR offensive against recalcitrant House members. Lefty organizations bombard constituents with mailers attacking these stubborn lawmakers. This legislative holdout is reminiscent of the siege of the Alamo.

But a rescue operation has commenced. The controversial Koch Super PAC will alter the debate with huge efforts on television, radio and the mail. Moreover, the organization tapped a savvy Utahn, the experienced political operative Evelyn Everton, to direct activities. Her expertise and sensitivities to local dynamics guarantees reverberations.

Also, this new development is an acknowledgment that Utah matters because the ultimate Medicaid decision will be a leverage tool with other states. To reaffirm the following is arrogant (a standard insult hurled at me) but true: what happens in Utah often impacts the nation.

Webb: I say welcome, Brothers Koch, to Utah. Your money will be good for the economy. Now if we can get Sheldon Adelson, MoveOn.org, George Soros, and a few other billionaire front groups to set up shop here we can bring in enough revenue to overtake Idaho in per-pupil spending.

The Koch group has already sent mailers to the constituents of key legislators opposing Healthy Utah. But I believe Utahns and Utah legislators are smart enough not to be swayed by these groups that take blunt, simplistic positions on complex problems.

Gov. Gary Herbert and legislative leaders are moving toward a reasonable Medicaid expansion solution that uses money Utah taxpayers are already paying for health care services, while protecting the state from long-term financial perils. I don’t think the Koch group will prevent Utah lawmakers from finding common-sense solutions to Utah’s challenges.

In a rare burst of bipartisanship, the U.S. Senate passed legislation that maintains — but also narrows — the National Security Agency’s authority to gather phone calling data. Are Sen. Mike Lee's outspoken positions on the issue, and his leadership in constructing the new snooping law, helpful or harmful to his reputation in Utah?

Pignanelli: A prominent community leader grumbled last week: "I wish Lee would coach the Jazz. He's an obvious turnaround master who had a better season than they did." Last month, the National Journal highlighted Lee as a “hard-core policy entrepreneur” with an “ideas factory” who is garnering praise from the media and politicos of all affiliations. His foray into the national security debate was brilliant. Tea party and left wing activists appreciated his tough stance protecting privacy. Moderate Republicans are complimentary of his ability to craft a bipartisan solution that passed. Potential Republican challengers now face an even larger hurdle.

Webb: This is Mike Lee’s law. He gets credit or blame for it. It is a compromise, and it’s much better than Sen. Rand Paul’s frontal attack on NSA. I love to hear Lee arguing against “cynical government-by-cliff brinkmanship.” He’s obviously turned a corner in his Senate career. He said if Republicans “ever want to improve their standing among the American people, then we must abandon this habit of political gamesmanship.”

Of course, 20 months ago he was blithely engaging in brinkmanship and gamesmanship and helping to shut down the government. But he’s a fast learner. From now on, we can expect Lee the Master of Compromise.

Personally, I’m with Sen. Orrin Hatch on this issue. I don’t believe it was necessary to leash the NSA and erode our national security.

Anyone who travels around Salt Lake City cannot help but notice the spring flowering of Jackie Biskupskilawn signs. Is the challenger to incumbent Mayor Ralph Becker turning this into a real race?

Pignanelli: Veteran campaigners understand signs are an unreliable indicator of support. Yet, politicos are noticing Biskupski’s feisty campaign that is grabbing attention and mounting credible opposition to Becker. The usually reserved Becker is more aggressive with the media and working retail politics. While the Mayor enjoys tremendous advantages, no one is claiming an easy walk for him this year.

Webb: As the token Republican living in downtown Salt Lake City, I wish I had a nice Republican mayoral candidate to vote for. Alas, it’s not to be. City Republicans are so scarce we can’t even field a candidate, let alone get one elected.

But the city is doing quite well. Downtown has problems all big cities have, but it is alive, vibrant and a great place to live. Becker has been a steady hand. He even gets along with business-oriented Mormon Republicans like me. Certainly, barnacles and mistakes pile up over two terms in office, but I predict the good liberals of the capital city will re-elect him.

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: What prospective commencement speakers should have said

The season for the famous and influential to convey their wisdom to graduating college graduates is almost over. Your columnists waited patiently by the phone (Webb even took it to bed) for a prestigious university to invite us to deliver the commencement address. Alas, the call never came. We’re still sad, but slowly recovering.

Nevertheless, the snub doesn’t prevent us from retaliating by revealing snippets of the insights prospective commencement speakers SHOULD have imparted to the proud Class of 2015:

U.S. Sen. Mike Lee: "Yes, you have achieved a great deal in your cocoon here on campus. But the moment you set foot in the real world, the NSA and the Feds will be monitoring all your activities — if they don’t already. So run. Hide. Become a hermit. Do not use your iPhone, and be sure to delete your Facebook account. Big Brother is watching."

Utah GOP Chairman James Evans: "Always follow your dreams and passions — no matter how futile and annoying they are. Don't let others prevent you from following the direction of the most extreme and eccentric people in any organization you join. Keep pursuing pointless causes even if it alienates half the people around you.”

U.S. Sen. Orrin Hatch: “Now is the time to live your dreams. I advise you to outlive all your opponents and most of your friends. Nothing is more invigorating than staying in power while everyone else retires, or goes gently into that good night. You, too, could live long enough to be third in line for the presidency (and I’m gonna outlive those other guys!)."

Salt Lake County Mayor Ben McAdams: “As you go out into the world, trust in the goodness of your fellow human beings. Challenge yourself to be accepting of everyone around you. And remember to carry a voice-activated recording device when you confront a ‘good human being’ who absconded with your hard-earned resources."

Gov. Gary Herbert: “Congratulations! You and your fellow graduates are about to enter the noble world of work. Unfortunately, many of you will no longer qualify for your parents’ health insurance. And entry-level employment won’t offer insurance. And you might contract a severe disease. And without treatment you might die an ignominious (wow, did I really pronounce that?) death. So contact your legislators right now and tell them to support Healthy Utah!"

Utah House Minority Leader Brian King: "The world is waiting for you out there. So please do everything you can to support a healthy, vibrant, balanced, diverse, democracy in our state and country. Therefore, please, please do not vote in the next election, since most of you are Republicans."

House Speaker Greg Hughes: "Never, never forget where you came from. Use the experiences of your childhood, no matter how difficult, to motivate you. The tougher the neighborhood you came from, the better — even the mean streets of Pittsburgh. And for sure learn boxing, judo, karate, back-stabbing, street fighting and break dancing to impress and intimidate your work colleagues. It’s a beautiful thing.”

Democratic Party Chairman Peter Corroon: "When you leave this campus today and make the first step toward the rest of your life, please remember to take care of those in need, those who are helpless, those who can't defend themselves, those who are bereft, poor and in dire straits. In other words, remember to help a Utah Democrat.”

President Obama: You are the hope of the world. Never let setbacks make you frown. After all, I started with a Democratic Congress. Now it’s all Republican. I got Obamacare passed. Now it’s still unpopular and faces judicial challenges. I have ignored Congress and issued executive orders on many issues. Now the courts are reversing my orders. I have tried to be friendly to the world. Now the globe is in disarray and falling apart. But I’m still smiling.”

Mitt Romney: "As you go forth, always be genuine. Stick to the positions you really believe in. Don’t flip-flop. In other words, use my 2012 presidential campaign as a case study of what not to do.”

Former Congressman Jim Matheson: "Strive to be a productive member of society. There is an axiom in politics that nothing is more useless than a liberal out of office. Well I'm living proof that one can be a Democrat, who is not a liberal, who's out of office and is useful — at least to my new clients."

Congressman Jason Chaffetz: "I impart two important lessons to you today. First, there is no such thing as overexposure in the media. Second, never underestimate the ability of your enemies to be stupid. No matter how smart they are, they usually end up hiding emails, unlawfully targeting political opponents and always providing fodder for investigations."

Senate President Wayne Neiderhauser: "Be patient with the weak, foolish and slow-witted. Yes, however backward, the House of Representatives does have a role in our state."

Congressman Chris Stewart: "Always remember our Founding Fathers, the bravery of our veterans and the miracles that saved this country — and be sure to read my books about these great things.”

Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox: "Work hard and do your best to get ahead. Rarely do silver bullets and jackpots occur in life. But when lightning does strike, it’s pretty sweet."

Former President George W. Bush (actual quote): “To those of you who received honors, awards and distinctions, I say well done. And to the C students, I say, you too may one day be president of the United States.”

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Mediocre 'favorability' ratings hint at Utah's varied attitudes toward Congress

Last week, a UtahPolicy.com poll, which was picked up by other media, showed mediocre “favorability” ratings for Utah’s four U.S. House members. Your columnists weigh in.

Why the dismal ratings? Are Utahns really that upset with U.S. House members? Also, to many observers, the delegation — especially Rep. Jason Chaffetz — seems rather quiet. What is happening? 

Pignanelli: "We may not imagine how our lives could be more frustrating and complex — but Congress can." — Cullen Hightower

Enough time has passed since the last real scare so the boundaries of decency (rarely a barrier for this miscreant) now allow me to reinstate my frequent distasteful comparisons between the federal government and the Ebola virus. Polls continue to document that by large margins Americans are more fearful of Washington, D.C., than the African pestilence. The complaints — legitimate and otherwise — Utahns have with the feds is blemishing their view of our elected representatives. (Well, that's the best reason I have to explain the rough survey results.)

Regardless of ideologies, political insiders know that Utah's congressional delegation is actually quite busy with substantive matters. Furthermore, members are very aggressive in maintaining contact with constituents in their weekly trips home on the weekend. But any good works are filtered by the grumpiness towards all things federal.

Congressman Jason Chaffetz and Rob Bishop each serve as chairman of an important House committee, and must limit extracurricular activities with the media to allow their colleagues to shine. Bishop prefers such solitude, and the publicity-savvy Chaffetz is selective in his PR excursions.

Webb: The modest favorability ratings don’t indicate that Utah’s members of Congress are in political trouble. But they do show that many registered voters aren’t paying much attention, and Utah’s representatives need to communicate better with their constituents.

Favorability ratings are usually lower than job approval ratings. Favorability ratings seem to be partly about likability and personal connection. Many people rate a politician low on favorability but higher on job approval.

The high number of respondents who had no opinion or hadn’t heard of the politician shows members of Congress need to communicate better with voters. They send out a lot of mail, do town hall meetings and try to get the news media to pay attention. But in the digital age with thousands of images and messages bombarding citizens every day, politicians must work harder to cut through the clutter.

That means working on issues their constituents care about and monitor, providing great constituent service, and effectively using social media.

Does this poll indicate re-election vulnerabilities for the House members?

Pignanelli: Utahns eject an incumbent member of Congress every 8-10 years (or so). History will be haunting one of them in the next several election cycles. In the past, the best defense against such threats was a strong support within party delegates. But with the changes to nomination system through SB54, officeholders will now have to adjust such tactics to keep the more moderate primary voters happy.

Webb: All four of Utah’s members of Congress are in pretty good shape. They are clear favorites for re-election — unless someone very well-known with a lot of money challenges them. The best thing they can do is show they are solving the nation’s problems, not just throwing bombs and criticizing the federal government. After all, they’re in charge now. It’s their responsibility to make the federal government work.

Is Congress getting more done under Republican leadership?

Pignanelli: Congress has been in session for only a handful of weeks in 2015, but there are signs of rational thought (confirmation of Attorney General Loretta Lynch, likely passage of the trade bill). The GOP made loads of promises in 2014 to capture the Senate, and will be expected to pass tax and immigration reform, some relief of Dodd Frank, revamps to Obamacare and streamline of entitlements. It is an ambitious agenda. The master of bipartisanship solutions, Sen. Orrin Hatch, is well placed as Senate Finance chairman to shepherd these legislative packages through the Capitol. If he cannot, then we are in real trouble and Ebola will look even more attractive.

Webb: If the Republicans aren’t careful, they’re going to ruin Congress’ reputation as gridlocked and dysfunctional. In a relatively short time, Congress has accomplished a great deal and has shown it can solve problems. Even President Obama seems more willing to compromise and work with Congress on some issues. Sen. Hatch has been particularly effective. “Regular order” is being restored. Bills from both parties are being debated. The House and Senate are working together.

Certainly, not all is well in Washington. Too much power is concentrated there. It’s impossible for Washington to solve all of our problems. Congress faces many difficult issues and certainly won’t conquer all of them. Dysfunction still reigns in many ways. But under GOP leadership, Congress is finally working hard and making progress.

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Count My Vote compromise seems to provoke contradicting reactions

Utah’s confusing weather — rain and high mountain snow interspersed with summer-like heat — is a perfect backdrop to the turmoil in Utah politics. We offer our political/meteorological insights.

The Utah Republican Party sent a survey to 60,000 Republicans to measure opinions regarding SB54 — the much-debated law passed as a compromise to the Count My Vote (CMV) petition to replace the caucus/convention system with direct primary elections. A majority of some 3,000 respondents want to comply with the law, yet want the legal challenges to continue. These activists want candidates to swear fealty to the platform, but don't want candidates interviewed by "purity" committees candidates. Why this storm of contradictions?

Pignanelli: “Mixed feelings, like mixed drinks, are a confusion to the soul.” — George Carmen

The poll reveals Republicans are suffering from perplexities that ail teenagers. As with my kids, they procrastinated before dealing with the momentum behind CMV, which could have been remedied by a simple fix (minor modifications to the nomination process). Eventually, positive forces within them forged a compromise solution (the Bramble legislation). Now they are having second thoughts while blaming other family members.

Many delegates pound their chest with the admonition "Utah is a republic” (of course it is). Smart elected representatives thoroughly vetted the legislation and voted in behalf of their constituents. Now these activists are behaving as in a democracy by trying to thwart legitimate laws with means outside the legislative process.

Confusion always results when humans try to have it both ways — just like teenagers.

Webb: The party’s unscientific survey, along with numerous professional polls, clearly show that Republicans want to comply with the law, move forward, and provide certainty for 2016 candidates so they know how to run their campaigns. Bottom line is that the party needs to quit fighting SB54 and prepare for 2016.

To restore credibility, the party also needs new leadership. I like Chairman James Evans personally and respect his mettle. But he’s led the party on too many senseless kamikaze attacks and he’s losing membership by the hour. Alienating mainstream Utahns doesn’t build the Grand Old Party, and Evans is way past rehabilitation.

Legislators forged many remarkable and well-publicized achievements in the last legislative session (anti-discrimination amendments, education funding, transportation improvements, criminal justice reform, etc.). We offer other items that were under the radar, but helpful to Utahns.

Pignanelli: Utah is a wonderful place. Unfortunately, too often con artists and flim flam men ravage the pure decency of our trusting citizens. So the White Collar Crime Offender Registry (the nation’s first), which places the names and pictures of these financial felons on a website will diminish future financial fraud schemes. Rep. Michael Mckell and Sen. Curt Bramble sponsored this important legislation, in conjunction with Attorney General Sean Reyes.

With similar goals, Bramble passed new requirements providing public access to complaints against certain businesses filed with the Department of Commerce. In the same bill, the Provo senator expanded the ability of citizens to obtain public records from local government through the appeals process.

Quietly, all Utahns benefit from this good work.

Webb: We have too much carnage on the highways and the primary seat belt law will help. Buckling up might not just save your own life, but others around you as well.

The influential British publication, "The Economist," recently heralded Utah as “Young, tolerant and surprising” … a state that “is quietly forging a model of constructive Republicanism.” Really?

Pignanelli: Most Utah households are positively influenced by a wonderful periodical with a name that begins with “E.” The Pignanelli family is no exception, except that our weekly dose of excellent writing and thought emanates from the prominent weekly Economist. This publication explained to its global leadership how this magnificent state accepts diversity, promotes a quality lifestyle, but demands efficiency in government. Jolly good for us!

Webb: Don’t look now, folks on the far right, but Utah has been recaptured by mainstream conservatives. The reign of the tea party is over. Evidence is everywhere, and people across the country and the world are starting to notice. A state is going to receive attention when it can overcome political dysfunction, compromise to solve problems, pass critical legislation on pressing issues, and govern in a practical, conservative way. Utah is demonstrating that applying conservative principles sensibly is the right approach.

Certainly, Utah still faces many significant challenges and plenty of fights are ahead. We still need to find common ground on a conservative approach to Medicaid expansion; we need long-term education funding and reform; and we need to deal with a number of public lands and environmental issues. But we’ll eventually make good progress on those matters as well. You can read The Economist article here: http://econ.st/1EZ5mmh.