Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Identifying proper roles of various government levels

Gov. Gary Herbert is now chairman of the National Governors Association and has chosen federalism — restoring a proper balance in the federal-state relationship — as his key focus. His initiative comes at a time of when major questions are being raised regarding the proper roles of the different levels of government.

Can Gov. Herbert make meaningful progress with his federalism initiative?

Pignanelli: "I do believe states' rights was a sound doctrine that got hijacked by some unsavory customers for a while — like 150 years or so.” — John Shelton Reed

My parents recently celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary. (A modern-day miracle considering the Italian-Irish ethnic mix, compounded by family stubbornness and the daily drama.) I learned from them that in a successful relationship, there is friction and constant give-and-take by either party for an adjustment of responsibilities based upon circumstances. Our republic is in the 226th year of the marriage between the federal government and the states, and is enduring continual tug-of-war in response to changing dynamics.

Early in my life, the federals did all the cool things: forcing desegregation in schools, protecting civil rights, mandating clean air and water, etc. But Washington, D.C., has lost the sheen for numerous incompetencies: weak responses to crisis, bloated and wasteful bureaucracies, bizarre and burdensome regulations. Most federal employees are hard workers, but the massive leviathan prevents realization of important objectives.

Therefore, Gov. Herbert can succeed if his important endeavor is framed correctly. Americans do not understand "states' rights." Yet they enthusiastically support the form of governance that best defends their families, liberties and livelihood. Sometimes that is the feds, but in most cases it's the states. Local governments are responsive, innovative, consumer friendly and efficient. Thus, marketing competency and not ideology, is the best strategy for Herbert.

Webb: Addressing federalism is an ambitious undertaking and a worthy pursuit. In his one year as NGA chairman, Herbert won’t have time to make great progress sorting out the tangle of federal/state programs, funding and responsibility. But focusing attention will be helpful, and Herbert’s plan to highlight state-level innovation and best practices will demonstrate that states can better perform many of the things the federal government is struggling to do.

Reversing many decades of centralization at the federal level will be a long and difficult process. In fact, even today the trend is toward more consolidation and power at the federal level, not less.

Sen. Mike Lee wants to dramatically reduce the federal role in transportation funding and shift most funding and responsibility to the states. Does his plan make sense?

Pignanelli: Sen. Lee does not shy away from a battle, which his "Transportation Empowerment" legislation will deliver. All the interests vested in the federal fund regime (i.e. construction, engineering, etc.) are building a defense against this proposal — which implies some reform is needed. Policy gurus do have legitimate concerns whether the states will adequately replace the lost federal revenues. A lively debate is expected.

Webb: Lee’s big idea makes sense philosophically, although the federal government has a legitimate and important role in interstate transportation. Nationwide connectivity via highway, rail and air is crucial to every state economy, and especially Utah’s, as the crossroads of the West.

The devil is always in the details, and the problem with Lee’s legislation is the logistics, funding reductions and difficult transition. My experience with the Salt Lake Chamber’s Transportation Coalition indicates that even in conservative states like Utah, transportation agencies and business leaders concerned about transportation infrastructure don’t support Lee’s plan as currently written, and they don’t expect it to gain traction.

Lee apparently wants to do states a favor and help balance the federal budget, but he did not engage in meaningful discussions with state transportation leaders to discuss how devolution could occur in a rational, practical, common-sense way that doesn’t upend state budgets and disrupt planned projects and financing structures.

In the meantime, by vocally opposing short-term efforts to protect transportation funding, Lee loses credibility with the state and local transportation agencies he purports to help.

Lee has a lot of nuts-and-bolts work to do with the local folks if he wants his devolution idea to take off.

Efforts continue in Western states to take over federal land, even as Barack Obama's administration considers designating a huge new national monument. Are efforts to take title to federal land a futile exercise?

Pignanelli: For decades, Western officials have shouted demands at the Feds — and were always ignored. But recent actions by the Utah Legislature are the right approach. Republican and Democratic legislative leaders agreed to hire a legal/public affairs team (my firm is a participant) to determine viability of any legal strategy to increase state control of public lands.

Webb: More than 60 percent of Utah is owned by the federal government, compared with less than 2 percent in many states. That’s a real economic disadvantage for Utah and the other public land states. Certainly, national parks, conservation areas, military reservations and wilderness areas ought to be retained in federal ownership. That’s a lot of land. But substantial acreage could be better managed by the state.

For now, Rep. Rob Bishop’s Public Lands Initiative is the best vehicle to balance conservation, energy, recreation and other land management disputes. It deserves support. Another big federal monument designation would be disastrous.

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: A more political version of a Pioneer Day parade

The Days of ’47 Parade Committee likes to keep the parade as nonpolitical as possible, as we saw last Friday. We understand the need for decorum at this important historic event. But if we were in charge, here’s what the parade might look like:

Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker would eschew suit and tie in favor of showing off his lissome figure in spandex on a bike, surrounded by other cyclists with signs saying, “SLC — Car Free by ’23,” and a huge banner with the slogan: "Re-elect Ralph — he's not quite as boring as Hillary!"

Mitt Romney would be on an ornate float shaped like a dog carrier, sporting a sign: “It’s great to be back in Utah where 47 percent of the people also haul their dogs on top of their cars.”

The "Utahns for Donald Trump” committee would walk behind a banner saying, “Brigham Young was no pioneer hero. I like my pioneer heroes to be killed by Indians.”

Sen. Orrin Hatch would be riding on a float shaped like a giant vitamin bottle, with a banner saying, “Take these and you can grow as old as me!” Another sign would be a warning: "As President Pro Tem, I’m assigned full-time security. Those guys in black suits with earpieces really are Secret Service. Do not make suspicious movements or nasty comments."

Gov. Gary Herbert would stand atop a float shaped like the Wasatch Mountains, with a banner: “Gary Herbert: A Man to Match Our Mountains — delivering the best economy in the country, recapturing our Medicaid dollars, and defending Utahns’ right to trespass on federal lands. If you get caught, I’ll contribute $10,000 to your defense.”

Likely GOP gubernatorial candidate Jonathan Johnson, both arms immobilized in plaster casts, would be limping behind the Herbert float with a simple sign: “Despite all the arm-twisting to get me out of the race, I’m still here.”

House Minority Leader Brian King would be on a fenced-in float labeled: "Threatened and Endangered Species! A rare live active Mormon Democrat! Federal law needed to protect this genus.”

Former state lawmaker and current mayoral candidate Jackie Biskupski would be walking behind a large billboard: "Please ignore those dark money PACs dodging election laws to help my campaign. Just know that I’m a lot more liberal and a lot more fun than Ralph and his bikes.”

Those other Salt Lake City mayoral candidates (City Councilman Luke Garrott, George Chapman and Dave Robinson) would be hoisting a banner together proclaiming, "Good news! The news media say we are legitimate candidates. Really!”

Eagle Forum President Gayle Ruzicka’s float would feature a thousand followers in pioneer garb atop a float with the banner, “Holding firm to 1847 culture in 2015 and beyond.”

Utah Republican Chairman James Evans and Utah Democratic Chairman Peter Corroon would stand together on a bipartisan float featuring a sign: "Champions of Lost Causes — Electing Democrats and Restoring the Caucus/Convention System."

Troy Williams, president of Equality Utah (Utah's largest gay and lesbian advocacy group) would stand on a huge pedestal on a float over a banner reading, “Welcome to Salt Lake City. … This is the place … and we own it!”

State Sen. Jim Dabakis would carry a banner stating, "Welcome to my downtown Senate District. Remember me when I announce I’m running in 2016 for Governor, or Senator or Congressman. … Unless I quickly drop out."

Congressmen Rob Bishop and Chris Stewart would be on a float with a gigantic mound of dirt and rock labeled “National Monument.” They would be tearing it down with their bare hands.

Salt Lake County Mayor Ben McAdams would be on a float with a huge banner: "Your guilt-free candidate in 2016. Support political diversity by voting for a Democrat. … While still getting Republican policies.”

Fourth District Democratic candidate Doug Owenswould be dressed as a knight in shining armor, lance in hand, tilting at a windmill resembling Mia Love.

Congressman Jason Chaffetz wouldn’t be on a float or walking the parade route. He would send a stand-in who would wave with vigor — because he is having too much fun excoriating Hilary and the IRS in Washington, D.C.

Some parade invitees would likely send their regrets. The 16 Republican presidential candidates would collaborate on a joint note to the Parade Committee, saying, “Love ya, Utah. … Just can’t break away from the beautiful Iowa summer sunsets.” Hillary Clintonwould respond, “What’s a Utah?”

By popular vote, Frank Pignanelli and LaVarr Webb would be contained in a cage on a float guarded by tea party soldiers with a sign saying, “Do not release these sad old clowns until their juvenile humor is actually funny.”

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Utah's political nerds now have reasons to 'geek out'

The Utah political nerd society (we are charter members) is excited about new developments in local elections. We “geek out” on the intriguing questions:

Almost all Salt Lake County municipal elections will be conducted by mail-in ballots this year. How will this impact the mayor's race in Salt Lake City and other contests?

Pignanelli: "Boomers and Xers totally want to unplug from voting as a social activity. They don’t have time for it; they don’t want to participate in some institutional ceremony” — Neal Howe

This campaign season is best described as "Revenge of the Nerds,” because those political operatives who understand and crunch the numbers, mechanics and demographics will prevail.

National studies indicate “all-mail” balloting increases voter participation in local elections, which otherwise have abysmal turnouts. Politicos are conjecturing whether this new dynamic benefits incumbents (with name identification and decent job approval ratings) or challengers (because grumpy citizens can easier express complaints), especially in the battle between Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker and his major opponent Jackie Biskupski.

City candidates and apartment dwellers usually ignore each other. But now, the presence of a handy ballot lying around may prompt a newly discovered civic responsibility — and unpredictably alter a close race. Most mayoral and council contenders lack financial resources to track support in various demographic groups, so they have to make the “best guesses” and then utilize retail politics for persuasion. But the wrong gut feeling is riskier with mail ballots.

So there are no real answers — a frustration to candidates and their campaign managers (but great fun for us political weirdos).

Webb: For several years, voter turnout in Utah has been lousy, especially in municipal elections, where a few votes can make a big difference. One suggested solution is to make it easier to vote. Nothing’s easier than marking a ballot and dropping it in the mail. So we will see if voting by mail results in more ballots being cast. It’s worth trying.

The fact that results are less predictable with mail-in voting is actually a good thing. It forces candidates to campaign more broadly, to all registered voters and citizens, instead of just those who have voted in past elections. It’s very easy now to register to vote. And now it’s very easy to vote. That means candidates can’t zero in on select voters as they have in the past. This is good for democracy.

How do mail-in ballots and the likely involvement of the conservative Super PAC Americans for Prosperity affect the local option sales tax proposal that county leaders are considering placing on the ballot?

Pignanelli: Long-established knowledge dictates that tax and bonding initiatives are more likely to succeed in lower turnout elections. But conventional wisdom is in jeopardy. The local option gas tax proposal enjoys only soft support because many residents are grumpy with the Utah Transit Authority (which is a beneficiary along with cities and counties). So the likely increase in voter participation this November, compounded with the well-funded super PAC media blitz, offers unprecedented challenges to the tax supporters. (The dynamics of this is entertaining to the really demented political hacks.)

Webb: The conventional wisdom is that mail-in ballots will increase voter turnout and higher turnout improves the chances of ballot proposals.

I have worked with the Salt Lake Chamber’s Transportation Coalition and I’ve watched as mayors, city council members and county leaders have worked hard to assess and plan their transportation infrastructure needs in the face of dramatic growth.

So I’m personally rather insulted that an out-of-state, unelected, unrepresentative special interest group funded by the Koch brothers would waltz into Utah and tell Utah’s local leaders it knows what’s best for them.

For years, local leaders, close to taxpayers, have asked the Legislature for tools to address their local transportation needs. In the last session, the Legislature gave them the tools. I’m confident they won’t be intimidated by an out-of-state special interest group that knows nothing about local conditions.

A new Utah PAC controlled by billboard magnates Billand Dewey Reagan is spending money supporting Biskupski over Becker in the Salt Lake mayoral race. Does this alter the outcome?

Pignanelli: The intense support of a well-connected wealthy family is a real benefit to the lucky candidate … usually. But our capital metropolis is a different place. Becker built his political career opposing billboards. If the mayor cleverly uses this new election revelation to reaffirm his green urban planning background, and play to the suspicions of city voters towards corporate PACs, he will have transformed an obstacle into an effective weapon.

Webb: Municipalities, in particular Salt Lake City, like to make life miserable for billboard companies. I believe, in some cases, the outdoor advertising firms haven’t been treated fairly.

But I’m not sure siding with one liberal Democrat over another liberal Democrat will help the Reagan operation very much. In reality, this is the Reagan folks flexing some political muscle, sending a message to politicians that if they take on the outdoor advertising industry there will be consequences.

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.