Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Supreme Court nominations and Utah delegates

As Utah’s Legislature slogs along, wild and crazy politics at the national level are capturing the most public attention. Some Utah congressional leaders are in the thick of it.

What role will Utah Sens. Orrin Hatch and Mike Lee play in the confirmation or lack thereof of a new U.S. Supreme Court justice? 

(Pignanelli) "Supreme Court arguments and decisions are fascinating to a few of us and really pretty boring to most.” — Dan Abrams

I have sympathy for the family of the deceased U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. But it does warm my heart to witness the public expression of respect and admiration by Republicans for a short, swarthy, gregarious Italian.

For 40 years, Sen. Hatch was the "go to” guy for Democrat and Republican presidents in pushing their nominations. Utah's senior senator is not too "go to"-ish this year, especially if the president nominates an East Coast liberal jurist.

The president should exercise his constitutional prerogative and select a replacement for Scalia, but based upon the recommendations detailed by Justice Scalia in a recent opinion. Look for a quality lawyer with public university education, living in the middle sector of the country. This nominee should enjoy the benefit of a practical experience and not the cocoon of academia or a long thread of judgeships. He or she is a centrist (a word rarely used), well respected in legal and community circles.

This strategy sends important signals. The president is willing to work with Republicans on filling the bench. More importantly, a much-needed message is conveyed: Americans do not need to attend an elite university, or live on a coast, to be raised to the highest levels of our government. The entire nation will benefit from such an exercise.

(Webb) Orrin Hatch has been mentioned as a possible Supreme Court appointee over the years, and even today as a “consensus” nominee. That obviously isn’t going to happen, but Hatch will be in the middle of the nomination process.

Mike Lee is a young, scholarly, intellectual conservative senator/attorney with a keen legal mind. One day he could be the nominee of a conservative president, especially if he continues to display his practical, problem-solving side.

It was a mistake for Republicans to say they won’t even consider the president’s nominee. The president should nominate and the Senate should run it through their regular process. It’s highly unlikely the president will choose someone capable of being approved by the Republican Senate. But go through the process. As they say in old movie Westerns, “Have the trial and then hang him.”

Utah’s four U.S. House members are supporting Sen. Marco Rubio for president, while Sen. Hatch is supporting Jeb Bush, and Sen. Lee is staying neutral for now. Why the Utah support for Rubio, and why don’t Donald Trump and Ted Cruz attract more support in Utah?

(Pignanelli) Our congressional delegation is reflecting the habits and preferences of their constituents. They may never admit it, but Utah Republicans have more in common with Barack Obama (commitment to family, appreciation of intelligent discourse, abhorrence of intolerance, etc.) than with Trump. Furthermore, Utahns are not an angry people (it's impossible to stay mad living in this great state). Thus, Cruz has little traction. Our state has a legacy of pragmatism — which explains the affinity for Rubio and Bush.

(Webb) I’m proud of Utahns for not buying the Trump snake oil. He runs third in Utah, behind Rubio and Cruz, among both Republicans and voters in general. Utah might be his worst state in the country. Trump has now criticized the pope. I assume Mother Teresa will be next. I don’t know who’s left for him to ridicule (perhaps God?). If he runs out of living people, I suppose he could turn his vulgar mouth on George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.

Will Utah get a new national monument courtesy of President Obama before year’s end?

(Pignanelli) Although criticized by detractors on the left and right, some politicos believe the Public Lands Initiative pushed by Congressmen Rob Bishop and Jason Chaffetz prevents such a move. The president could be reluctant to slap down efforts towards compromise and dialogue.

(Webb) The more extreme environmental groups are dismissing the lengthy and comprehensive Public Lands Initiative (PLI) process, giving Obama the excuse he needs to designate a monument.

It will be an action both tragic and disdainful, protecting less land than would the PLI and ignoring local input and concerns. It will further exacerbate the tension and hostility that exists between federal land managers and traditional user groups. If Obama makes the designation, forget about any truce or attempt to find common ground on public lands issues. It will be an ugly fracas, both locally and in the congressional arena. It’s not too late to work through differences on PLI and avoid a disaster.

Shrewd consultants are absorbing and adapting while the dinosaurs are refusing to change.

The legislative session is already nearly half over, with some delicate issues facing Utah’s lawmakers. Here are some of the trickiest.

Should major policy issues like Medicaid expansion and tax increases for education be placed before voters if the Legislature won’t pass them?

(Pignanelli) “These things [gang warfare] gotta happen every five years or so … helps get rid of the bad blood.” — Peter Clemenza, "The Godfather Part I"

Experience has taught me occasional use of the “Clemenza Rule” makes for good policymaking.

For several years, various business, community and political groups have been battling each other over education, transportation, planning and Medicaid issues. Legislators have served as tireless proxy warriors for these conflicts, but per Clemenza, the battlefield needs to be expanded to the general public.

Although initially divisive, there is great societal advantage for the various factions to wage a political war for the hearts and minds of Utahns on these issues. Initiatives, referendums and ballot questions provide great opportunities for vigorous discussion and deliberation by voters on selective matters (plus, the fighting between the campaigns sheds the bad blood). Utahns possess the common sense and intelligence to supply appropriate direction to officials through these electioneering activities.

[Readers: The insightful analysis of Mr. Clemenza is another example of how the challenges of modern life can be resolved with the wisdom contained in America's greatest literary masterpiece: the two Godfather movies.]

(Webb) As a general rule, public policy should be enacted by the lawmakers elected to represent us. However, it doesn’t hurt for voters periodically to weigh in directly on major issues. Unlike California, where citizen referenda are out of control, few issues get on Utah’s ballot.

Legislators wouldn’t be shirking their responsibility by periodically putting something on the ballot, either as an advisory vote, or to create a new law. They already require local governments to put certain tax matters, like bonding for school buildings, on the ballot.

Some issues are really big, really important and really difficult. So why not let citizens express their support or opposition? The tax increase for education proposed by many business leaders and Education First, for example, could be a game-changer for Utah education, helping Utah gain top-10 education status. But the tax boost is large enough that the Legislature will never pass it. So why not let voters decide if they want to make the investment?

Same with Medicaid expansion. It’s a difficult issue pitting our compassion against fiscal prudence. So why not let citizens directly have a say?

Should online retailers be required to collect sales taxes?

(Pignanelli) These are the inventions and achievements that propelled humanity to higher levels of enlightenment, health and prosperity: utilization of fire, the wheel, agriculture, wine, the printing press, marinara sauce, flight, wireless communications and the Internet. Web applications continue to expand and improve our everyday lives. Therefore, all should be nervous about government messing with this remarkable development. The time will come when we can adequately assess taxes on e-commerce retailers, but not now. Innovative small businesses are selling products by traditional and online means, and we need to allow this to develop.

(Webb) The sales tax is one of the three legs of a balanced tax system that provides money for essential public services. We can’t continue to let the sales tax erode away. More and more purchases are being made online, and the trend will accelerate. Paying sales and use tax is the current law, whether purchases are made online or at a local store. Collecting the tax is not imposing a new tax. It’s just treating online merchants the same as your neighborhood shops.

Certainly, this is difficult. A patchwork of state laws covering the thousands of local tax rates is tough to manage. But Utah ought to require tax collection, reducing tax rates to keep revenue neutral, and continue pushing for a federal solution.

Medical marijuana legislation took a hit when the LDS Church came out against it. Any chances of passing?

(Pignanelli) State Sen. Mark Madsen deserves a merit badge of courage for raising this subject in the last several legislative sessions. His bill is DOA because of the recent announcement, but the issue survives. [Gov. Gary Herbert deserves a shout-out for using the word "Doobie" in a press conference when explaining his position.]

Legislation offered by Sen. Evan Vickers and Rep. Brad Daw will likely pass, allowing consumption of certain cannabis extracts. The always sensible Sen. Brian Shiozawa is offering a resolution requesting the federal government to reclassify marijuana as a Schedule II drug so researchers can investigate the benefits of medical marijuana. Suffering Utahns deserve to access this relief.

(Webb) There’s a reason many law enforcement officials oppose medical marijuana. They see the abuses. If marijuana is to be accepted as medicine it ought to go through the rigorous safety and approval processes required of new medicines. Medical value should be determined by scientific research and laboratory tests, not by politics or anecdotes about miracle cures.

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Iowa caucus and New Hampshire primary will affect Utah

The caucuses last week in Iowa and the presidential primary next Tuesday in New Hampshire will affect Utah — beyond just the selection of candidates. As political hacks, we are compelled to discuss the wacky world of presidential politics.

National pundits are saying that the 2016 election is breaking traditions and the commonly accepted rules of elections. Beyond just the rise of Donald Trumpand Bernie Sanders, what are revolutionary activities and developments that are occurring? 

Pignanelli:"Technology is a strange thing. It brings you great gifts with one hand and stabs you in the back with the other." — Carrie Snow

The national space program spawned more than just satellites and landings on the moon. America's efforts to conquer the great beyond advanced technology, satellites, and numerous everyday products (i.e. Tang, safety stripes on roads, freeze-dried foods, etc.)

Similarly, presidential campaigns launched or enhanced activities once new, but that we now take for granted (i.e. polling, consumer profiling, etc.) So the behind-the-scenes exertions in Iowa, and those likely to occur in the following primary contests -are HUUUUGE! (the Trumpism de jour). Although the media attention has focused on non-mainstream candidates, the real story is the success of new approaches and the failure of traditional outreach to voters.

Ted Cruz has more than just great field operations; he utilizes the most advanced technology in the history of electioneering. His use of data mining, thorough micro-targeting, and intense analytics is unprecedented. More than anything else, this explains his victory and defense against the Trump onslaught in Iowa.

Conversely, the traditional television carpet bombing used by the Super PACs paid no dividends to the candidates and obviously did nothing to harm rising star Marco Rubio. Trump’s inexpensive tweets had more effect than the commercials.

Webb: Whatever technology and targeting techniques are used, candidates must still tap into aspirations, fears and attitudes of voters. In this regard, the current anti-establishment fervor is really nothing new. Human nature remains the same over decades and centuries. Voter behavior follows familiar patterns in response to economic conditions, world affairs and government competency. Keen observers from the Greek philosophers and Shakespeare to modern historians have written about the same political intrigue and rebellion against the establishment we're seeing today. Far greater upheaval has occurred countless times in many countries. So what we’re seeing today isn’t unprecedented, and eventually we’ll see a return to normalcy.

What are the impacts of 2016 political trends on Utah politics and possibly the private sector? 

Pignanelli: Our state is technology savvy, so we will be poked and prodded by data mining and profiling in future elections. The geographical distribution of Utahns, combined with our Internet connectivity, can easily drive the creative engines for political operatives.

Where Utahns and other Americans will truly experience this revolution is how products are marketed to us. The Cruz campaign demonstrated how to create brand identification and loyalty. Increasingly, the messaging we receive to influence shopping habits will be selective and dictated by complex algorithms and caches of data.

Webb: Advanced technology is driving a wrenching societal transformation, and the effects are reflected in the presidential campaign. I grew up in west Orem in the ‘50s and ‘60s. For many decades, a young man could graduate from high school, get a secure blue-collar job at Geneva Steel, get married, buy a modest house, raise a family, eventually buy a fishing boat and a truck and camper for hunting trips, and end up with a decent retirement.

Those days are obviously long gone. People who are not prepared for the high-tech, quick-changing, interconnected, mobile global economy are working at McDonald’s and are left out of today’s economy. Pretty soon, robots will take their jobs at McDonald's. So there are a lot of angry, disaffected folks. Utah is doing better than most states, but the crucial lesson is that if we don’t want populist, rabble-raising politicians to lead a country of angry people (like Argentina), we had better provide great education so our young people can have good jobs and good quality of life.

How do these factors benefit or disadvantage the new petition process for a party's nomination? 

Pignanelli: The "good old days" of keeping delegates happy for a re-election bid are over. Most candidates and challengers will utilize the new technologies to secure petition signatures for their campaigns while driving down the interest in their opponents’ efforts. This will be much more expensive, but also expansive in outreach to voters.

Webb: As of this writing, some 110 candidates were gathering signatures from party members to get on the primary election ballot. That includes about 60 legislative candidates and nearly 50 county candidates. That’s quite remarkable given the Republican Party’s unrelenting effort to create confusion and discourage signature-gathering. From now on, candidates will need to appeal to all party members instead of courting a relatively few delegates who tend to be more extreme in their political views.

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Gubernatorial and legislative dynamics always interesting to watch

The Utah Legislature is a week old and Gov. Gary Herbert has outlined his priorities in his State of the State speech. The gubernatorial/legislative dynamics are always interesting to watch.

What are the issues the Republican Legislature and the Republican governor are likely to agree on? What are the tough issues likely to be disputed?

Pignanelli: “A speech is like a love affair. Any fool can start it, but to end it requires considerable skill.” — Lord Mansfield

As a member of a live audience for the State of the State for 10 years, I comprehend why governors love them so much. It is the only time each year that lawmakers must respectfully sit in silence without offering any contrary opinions, while the chief executive proclaims his/her objectives.

Gov. Herbert made it easy on the Legislature with few demands. By listing the accomplishments the state has achieved in a number of areas, he was sending the signal to lawmakers ”don't mess it up.” Legislators are in constant communication with party delegates, activists, committee leaders, and so he will keep relations with them strong.

Without using the words "Medicaid expansion," he did reference health care for Utahns. The Legislature is unlikely to adopt the governor’s program, but a streamlined version will be considered.

Media outlets are grateful that the governor covered many topics, with a delivery of less than 30 minutes. Brevity and efficiency in all things — but especially government and speechmaking — is admired and appreciated.

Webb: Utah sports a conservative Republican governor and a conservative Republican Legislature, and they are in sync on the big philosophical themes — low taxes, limited government, free enterprise and traditional social issue principles. So Utah should win the Miss Congeniality award, right?

Well, not quite. They will agree that education is the top priority, but they will fight over details of funding and reforms. They will fight over Medicaid expansion, but may find agreement on a modest approach. Herbert asked lawmakers to support economic development in rural areas, and he challenged legislators and the education community to boost high school graduation rates to 90 percent in the next four years. He called for elimination of outdated laws and changes in the regulatory structure to allow the 21st century sharing economy to thrive. He won’t get much argument from lawmakers on the value of those proposals, but the details may prove rancorous.

Another prominent Utahn, a Democrat, has announced his candidacy for governor. What impact will gubernatorial election politics have on Herbert's agenda?

Pignanelli: Regardless of party, Utahns should be proud of the caliber of citizens vying for the governorship. In addition to the popular Herbert, three entrepreneurs are offering their experience.

The recent entry is Michael Weinholtz, who enjoys a strong reputation in the business and charitable community.

Overstock Chairman Jonathon Johnson hired some of the best political advisers in the state to push an inter-party challenge to Herbert. Thus, his decision to pursue only the delegate route for the nomination suggests support and a vigorous convention strategy.

Herbert has the advantage of resources, popularity and national recognition of Utah accomplishments. But he understands the potential of his opponents and will subtly maneuver to decrease potential attacks from them.

It would be a clever political tactic for Herbert to claim that his opponents succeeded in business because of his administration's programs.

Webb: The election is going to be hotly contested, but Herbert is in pretty good shape as the incumbent. He’s riding high in the polls, especially among conservative and moderate Republicans and independents, which make up the bulk of the electorate.

Republican Johnson will attack from the right, and Democrat Weinholtz from the left. Both will attempt to portray Herbert as a manager lacking visionary leadership to take the state to the next level.

Herbert is in sync with citizens in calling for increased education funding and modest Medicaid expansion. He’s proposing no tax increases or borrowing. His agenda is safe, conservative, steady-as-she goes — without any moon shots or grandiose proposals. So he does remain vulnerable to charges that he’s not sufficiently visionary or futuristic.

But with a strong economy, low unemployment and the vast majority of voters thinking Utah is going in the right direction, Herbert will be tough to beat.

Is the perception correct that the governor and Republican legislative leaders are at odds more than usual?

Pignanelli: The Legislature has increased its influence on state government operations, at the expense of the executive branch. Also, 21st century legislative leaders are more willing to publicly disagree with the governor. These dynamics may create the impression of hostility, but is only a reflection of politics in an expanding state.

Webb: They get along as well as can be expected, but gubernatorial/legislative politics are never simple. The governor is one person, while the Legislature is 104 unique, independent politicians with differing priorities and mandates — many thinking they ought to be governor themselves. This natural tension is good for democracy as long as it doesn’t result in the sort of gridlock and dysfunction that is choking the federal government.

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Utah Legislature blasting off with election-year session

The Utah Legislature blasts off tomorrow morning, commencing its 45-day, election-year session. We take a look at the state of Utah’s lawmaking body.

Various recent polls measuring the Legislature’s job performance range from a lousy 39 percent approval rating (Salt Lake Tribune/Survey USA) to a healthy 57 percent approval (UtahPolicy.com/Dan Jones). How do Utahns really perceive the Legislature?

Pignanelli: "Public opinion is stronger than the legislature, and nearly as strong as the ten commandments." — Charles Dudley Warner

Republicans, Democrats and independents frequently inquire how I spend time at the Capitol "with those people" and remain sane. I always respond the best therapy for a legislative session is a strong dose of humor.

Utahns have amusing perceptions towards their Legislature. Some think it a bizarre political World Wrestling Federation contest with cartoonish characters wrestling each other, while grunting and groaning. Others are suspicious of a secret society where mysterious figures convocate in dark chambers, chanting strange oaths and incantations. Too many surmise the Capitol is a lobbyist jungle gym, with spirited hijinks and backslapping. (Lawmakers, lobbyists and staff describe their experience as chained to oars, pulling to a never-ending voyage on a giant slave ship.)

Because the media, movies and blog sites molds citizens’ perceptions, their opinions of the Legislature can be blemished. With 30 years of experience as a lawmaker and lobbyist, I assure readers every legislator — regardless of party — is a decent hard-working soul who believes his/her agenda is in the best interest of the state. But because the House and Senate must be filled with human beings, they are bodies brimming with emotion, ego, compassion, ambition, intelligence, silliness, self-righteousness and sincere dedication. So my prescription of engaging the process with humor has served me and others well.

But I remain grateful our wise drafters of the Constitution set mandatory time limits on all this fun.

Webb: Here’s a great thing about the Legislature: When it’s over, spring is here!

The truth is, Utahns like their Legislature, and particularly their own lawmaker, just fine. And with good reason. Utah’s 104 lawmakers quickly and efficiently handle the state’s business. Gridlock and dysfunction are seldom seen. They balance the budget, take care of the state’s greatest needs, and do it year after year.

Utah’s lawmakers are like everyone else, working regular jobs, living in our neighborhoods, interacting with constituents. They are approachable. They are in tune with state needs and, for the most part, they look out for the state’s best interests.

Certainly, the Legislature has its right-wing and left-wing, its stars and duds. Silly legislation is introduced and eyebrow-raising speeches are given. But the laws that survive the gauntlet of committee hearings, floor action and gubernatorial signing or vetoing are usually (although not always) good for the state.

Will election-year politics influence legislative actions?

Pignanelli: Many politicians boast their votes and actions are boldly made despite an upcoming re-election. Numerous special-interest organizations scream officials should enact policies without deference to campaign strategies. This is all malarkey. We want all office-holders worried about re-election (most of them are, despite the bravado). The 2016 legislative session will prompt grandstanding, emotional speeches, press conferences and message bills to solidify support for incumbents. For some this is annoying. For others, it's great entertainment (see above). But, it is a vestige of democracy.

Webb: Every politician has one eye on the next election. When this keeps legislators responsive to citizens and voters, such accountability is good. But it’s bad if election concerns paralyze legislators and prevent them from making difficult votes. In the past, legislators have sometimes been overly concerned about a narrow group of constituents — the party delegates that could decide their fates. Now, with the option of gathering signatures to get on the primary ballot, they need not be so concerned about a relatively few delegates and can be more representative of all their constituents.

Can Democrats have any influence on the legislative process or outcome?

Pignanelli: Shrewd messaging to the media and clever backroom tactics are the best tools for a minority party to achieve some objectives. Current Democrats have impacted clean-air and other state policies. If they are willing to increase cunning in political maneuvering, they could mold other key objectives in education, environment and economic development.

Webb: It’s true that Republicans can (and do) roll over Democrats any time they wish. Elections have consequences. Republicans dominate because voters elected them. Republicans and Democrats have different ideologies and different world views. Republicans enjoy an overwhelming majority, so their priorities should prevail.

But in Utah (unlike Congress and many other states), Republican leadership is actually magnanimous toward Democratic lawmakers. Democrats regularly sponsor and pass important bills. Most legislation is not partisan in nature and votes often don’t follow party lines. Democratic influence is also magnified through the news media. If you are silly enough to be a Democrat, Utah isn’t a bad place to be.

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: State of the Union sets the stage for presidential campaign ahead

The nation is in for interesting times over the next 10 months as we select the next leader of the free world. President Barack Obama attempted to set the stage for the campaign ahead in his State of the Union speech. We look at the hits and misses.

As we look forward to the campaign, did Obama successfully frame the issues? 

Pignanelli: “The president has a great perk. He can deliver a State of the Union address, to encouraging applauses, rather than endure an annual performance review like the rest of us.” — Phil Rosenthal, Chicago Tribune

The State of the Union speech is similar to the Academy Awards. There is tremendous media attention, filled with predictions and analysis, surrounding both events. But afterwards no one recalls — or cares about — what was said.

Mostly, the president did what he needed to do. He reminded critics the poor hand dealt him in 2009 and that the economy has recovered under his watch. Obama excelled in underscoring the unique characteristics of Americans — acceptance of other cultures, entrepreneurial skills, dedication to quality and hard work. He nailed a tough stance against the Islamic terrorists (too bad he didn't exude the same emotion in his post-San Bernardino speech).

Obama provided the right demeanor … until he lectured, and blamed, all Americans for fostering the nastiness in Washington. Every politico was aghast at this indictment. The Obama administration and Democratic Senate and House leadership — during their tenure of absolute government control — built a massive glass house of hostile partisanship, which prevents the president from throwing stones.

While some Utahns might disagree with the president’s initiatives, we all share his deep abiding belief in this country and people. But please don't ask us to recall anything he, or another president, has said during this annual exhibition.

Webb: I liked Obama’s calls for unity, the eloquent picture he painted of the goodness of America and its resourceful people, and his assertion that America remains the world’s greatest country and its best days are ahead. I believe all of that. I liked his stirring call for innovation and a new “moon shot” to cure cancer.

I believe Obama is sincere and really wants what’s best for America. I don’t think he’s an ogre or charlatan. He’s just wrong. Exceedingly wrong. His worldview and underlying political ideology are dramatically different from mine. He believes that a new or bigger government program is the solution to every problem facing America. He believes the federal government should take care of everyone from cradle to grave.

It is notable that nowhere in his articulate speech did he address the supreme menace hanging over this country — a $17 trillion debt that is actually several times worse when various unfunded liabilities are counted. He didn’t address entitlement programs that are headed for bankruptcy. He didn’t suggest pro-growth policies to bolster a lethargic economy, just more spending on government programs.

Obama is a sincere leader, but his eight years will end with America in a precarious state.

While acknowledging problems, Obama painted a rosy state of the union. Are average Utahns as hopeful as he is?

Pignanelli: Obama pleaded for Americans to reject nativist, outrageous assertions made by some in the campaign arena (implying Donald Trump and Ted Cruz). He declared the national debate is how much government intervention is needed to provide fairness in the economy and respect in foreign affairs. Statements made by candidates in both parties confirm Obama’s assertion that this is the essential argument in the 2016 elections. Yet, Americans are hungry for a more sophisticated discussion, and vision, to make government smarter when needed, and absent when not.

Webb: Cloistered in the White House and recently back from a Hawaiian vacation, Obama can’t quite grasp the malaise and exasperation that exists in the country — and that is giving rise to Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders. Certainly, by some measures the economy is better. But so many American families aren’t feeling it. The country is working fine for the favored few. But not for a vast swath of average citizens. Obama’s answer is more government and more entitlements. The real answer is less government, including less corporate welfare and crony capitalism.

Obama called for unity and compromise. Any chance Congress and the country will come together in the year ahead?

Pignanelli: Republicans must have substantial legislative accomplishments to secure election victories in the House and Senate. The president wants a legacy for his final year. So both sides possess deep incentives for compromise. Fortunately for Obama, two masters of bipartisan consensus lead Congress — House Speaker Paul Ryan and U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch. Thus, I optimistically predict some major accomplishments.

Webb: It’s going to be a really divisive political year, highlighted by a very ugly presidential election. National politics will be a toxic sewer pit. Thankfully, we will do much better in Utah.

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Frank Pignanelli and LaVarr Webb: Signature-gathering period in primary election process marks new era

The signature-gathering period for candidates to get on a primary election ballot began last week, marking a new era in the political party nomination process. We explore the cheers and jeers provoked by this new process.

What is the impact now that candidates can secure a primary ballot spot without going through the caucus/convention system? Will this spur more participation? Will many candidates even use the new process?

Pignanelli: "The difference today is that, in both parties, the very extreme elements control the nomination process.” — Hamilton Jordan

I frequently watch my teenage children agonize whether to ask a date to the prom. (i.e. "Should I ask him/her?" "How much will it cost?" "What will my friends think if I do or don't ask him/her?")

Similar emotions are plaguing many Utah politicians whether to participate in the new petition signature process (i.e. "Should I do this?" "How much will it cost?" "What will voters think of me if I do or don't gather signatures?”)

Teenagers — and these candidates — deserve our sympathy.

Responses to the new process are generating unexpected results. Politicians predicted to use the signature process have opted to gamble solely with delegates. U.S. Sen. Mike Lee defied many assumptions by stating he will utilize both roads to the nomination (a brilliant decision as it creates difficulties for challengers).

It's too early to determine any ideological shifts. But expensive signature collection has altered campaign finance. Candidates are fundraising earlier and more aggressively. Politicians who once eschewed corporate and special-interest contributions are now welcoming all donors as their costs have dramatically increased.

So the admonition to well-intentioned election reformers is the same that I give to my teenagers: “Be careful what you ask for."

Webb: As a proud volunteer for Count My Vote and a supporter of SB54 (the compromise bill passed overwhelmingly by the Legislature and signed by the governor) — which provides the dual track to get on the ballot — I couldn’t be more pleased with the way it is rolling out.

In just the first few days of the three-month-long signature gathering period, some 65 candidates filed their declaration of intent to gather signatures. Some easily gathered their signatures in just a few days. That’s a smashing success, especially in the face of hostility, lawsuits, obfuscation, confusion and veiled threats by Republican Party bosses trying to discourage candidates from gathering signatures. Kudos to Sens. Todd Weiler, Curt Bramble and others for standing up to party bosses.

Many races will now be more competitive and won’t be decided at conventions by a tiny minority of party activists. All party members will have the opportunity to decide who wins the nomination, not just a few.

As this new process goes forward in future election cycles, it will make Utah politics much more open and welcoming to a wide variety of candidates, not just those who can make it through the delegate process.

Is this alternative to the traditional convention process a power play by Utah's political elite and not reflective of Utah citizens’ preferences?

Pignanelli: Polls indicate that most voters are unaware or have little interest in the signature petition process. However, the Count My Vote initiative to change the nomination process was prompted by surveys indicating that Utahns were frustrated that a small number of delegates controlled the political process.

The sheer dynamics of the delegate/convention process in both parties pushed candidates to extremes of the political spectrum. Regardless of who funded the activity, the CMV Initiative was a good-faith effort to smooth extremism. The petition signature process was the legislative compromise and reflects the Utah preference for Utahns to try different measures to solve problems.

Webb: Survey research shows large majorities of Utahns of all parties support this alternative to the caucus/convention system. The vast majority of Utah leaders, including past political party chairs, retired politicians at all levels of politics, and the business and civic communities support the new process as a way to encourage political participation.

The old system is still defended by a few dinosaurs, but it is in its death throes. Party bosses are seeing power slipping away, and are desperately trying to salvage the archaic ways of the past. But everyone else has moved on.

Will this new system survive or will legislators ultimately junk it and return to the caucus/convention process?

Pignanelli: If only a handful of officials utilize petition signature process this election cycle, legislators will enact major changes in 2017. However, if Utahns are pleased with having politicians beg for signatures in the snows of January, the system stays.

Webb: It will take a few election cycles for the full benefits of this new system to sink in, but the signature process will become very popular. I vividly remember a state legislator telling me he hated the feeling when his delegates asked him to do something and he had to give their opinions and requests more weight than other constituents. His political future was literally in the hands of delegates. That is no longer the case. All constituents have equal clout. Free at last! Free at last!

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb: Our contribution to the year-end reviews and predictions

The media pundits and anyone else with megaphones are shouting about year-end awards and predictions. We’d hate to miss the fun, so here are our contributions.

Most 2015 political accomplishments have been well-covered in traditional and social media. Do any politicos deserve recognition for something in 2015 that failed to garner appropriate attention?

Pignanelli: "Politics is more difficult than physics.” — Albert Einstein

In recognition of the resuscitating Star Wars influence, Obi-Wan Kenobi is paraphrased to describe State Auditor John Dougall as the "The Force that surrounds us and penetrates us." Just the fears of Dougall’s performance audits have impacted many Utah government officials in their functions.

Utah is a center of financial services in the country, providing us enormous economic and community benefits. But this advantage is threatened as America's state-chartered banks are struggling with burdensome federal regulations. With little media attention, Congresswoman Mia Love sponsored legislation to help rectify this national and local difficulty.

Most Republicans like Salt Lake County Mayor Ben McAdams regardless of his party affiliation. But some left-wing activists despise his successful bipartisan consensus-building and refusal to engage in ideological prattle.

National Democratic Party spokesmen love to harangue Congressman Jason Chaffetz (and he enjoys giving it back). But through his bipartisan activities, the chairman of the House Government Oversight Committee has the affection of colleagues from both sides.

Mayor-elect Jackie Biskupski demonstrated how shrewd retail campaigning can overcome tough odds. Her campaign manager, Lindsay Barenz, deserves praise for developing — and sticking to — a smart strategy.

The Governor's Office of Economic Development and its ally, the Economic Development Corporation of Utah, capture attention when a big company locates here. But what is overlooked is the amount of hard work the staff of these organizations expend to keep Utah on top of the heap.

House Speaker Greg Hughes’ proposal of a provider tax to fund Medicaid expansion dramatically altered the course of this debate in Utah, and possibly in other states. It also opened the door for other funding options.

Webb: I appreciated the members of Utah’s congressional delegation who contributed to a reasonably good congressional year by supporting important bipartisan legislation dealing with international trade, an omnibus spending package, transportation funding and education reform.

I was disappointed by the many Republican candidates and incumbents, some from Utah, who pandered to the far right, damaging the Republican brand with mainstream voters and hurting the party’s chances to win the presidency in 2016 and maintain control of the U.S. Senate. Enacting conservative policies will require winning the presidency this year, not dying on the sword of far-right ideologies.

2016 promises to be a lot of fun for anyone who enjoys politics. Any predictions? 

Pignanelli: With the appropriate conditions and caveats that allow me to escape responsibility when wrong and to use the taunt “I told you so” when I am right, I hereby predict:

Donald Trump wins at least two early primaries, and keeps him a contender for Super Tuesday.

The outcome of the presidential election is determined by if two external factors occur by November 2016 — a recession and terrorist attack.

The presidential ticket of both parties will directly impact many local races in Utah, especially for the Legislature, county positions and possibly a congressional seat.

Medicaid expansion is funded through a mechanism that satisfies the concerns of House Republicans.

Webb: It’s going to be quite a remarkable year … almost like a fairy tale. Congressional Republicans will come to their senses, govern with moderation, and pass key bipartisan legislation that unifies the country. Voters decide they like a Congress that actually solves problems. Republicans maintain House control by wide margins and win 60 seats in the Senate.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump concludes that insulting people is a lot more fun than having to actually govern a large country. So he challenges the manhood of white American males — the only interest group he hadn’t yet alienated — calling them “pathetic low-energy losers” if they aren’t rich, famous and haven’t had at least three gorgeous wives. Trump finally fades in the polls, starts a reality TV show, “The Biggest Insulter,” and continues to dominate each news cycle.

Ted Cruz is arrested and deported on a spaceship after a new movie, “Men in Black IV,” reveals he is actually an alien from another galaxy attempting to take over the world. “It was his crazy eyes,” says Agent J after capturing the intergalactic imposter.

The four remaining legitimate candidates, Marco Rubio, Chris Christie, John Kasich and JebBush, sneak off to a secret campaign retreat and then announce they will run as a four-person ticket with Rubio as president, Kasich as VP, Bush as secretary of state, and Christie as secretary of defense.

Hillary Clinton announces Bill as her VP running mate.

The Rubio/Kasich/Bush/Christie ticket easily wins Ohio (where Kasich is governor) and Florida (where Rubio and Bush are from) and handily defeats Clinton/Clinton.

With total control of Washington, Republicans balance the budget, save Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, pass comprehensive immigration reform, simplify the tax code, defeat ISIS, and we all live happily ever after.

Happy New Year!