NEWS & EVENTS
Will leftist national Democrats impact the party in Utah?
Pignanelli and Webb
Political pundits have noted the national Democratic Party is tilting left. This is especially evident in the liberal policies pushed by some of its presidential candidates. Further, the impeachment proceedings are a mixed bag for some Democrats in swing states. All of this is creating cracks within the world’s oldest political party. We review the national and local implications.
Former President Barack Obama recently counseled Democratic presidential candidates not to “tear down the system.” He said many people “just don’t want to see crazy stuff,” implying some archliberal candidates are not aligned with mainstream Americans. Meanwhile, additional centrist Democratic candidates are getting into the race. And moderate Democrats have won recent gubernatorial elections. What do these internal struggles mean for the party and how will it impact Utah’s elections next year?
Pignanelli: “In politics, manipulating reality can take precedence over finding reality.” —George Soros
A talented ballet performer turned politician has crystallized the angst Americans are suffering while watching the coddling of left-wing extremists by presidential candidates. Former Congressman and Chief of Staff to President Obama Rahm Emanuel recently reminded everyone the traditional value system of Democrats (including Social Security and Medicare funded by payroll taxes, Earned Income Tax Credit, etc.) is based on respecting the value of work, shared responsibility and equal access to opportunity. He then declared, “The fact is, promises of free income, free college, guaranteed health care is walking away from the traditional value system of Democrats … from Roosevelt backwards.”
Emanuel’s statements highlight a subterranean struggle occurring between moderates and progressives. A correction to the leftist trajectory must occur in order for Democrats to remain competitive across the country and in Utah, to deflect the expected, and likely impactful, attacks from the GOP declaring them members of a party out of touch. But the champions of this cause are not fully developed. So, no solid predictions as to the ultimate outcome.
The interesting feature is a dance-trained big city mayor is the articulate mouthpiece of mainstream Democrats and centrist Americans.
Webb: Given President Trump’s weakness, Democrats really ought to be able to crush him and take total control of government. But Republicans can express gratitude this Thanksgiving for extremist Democratic leaders who are even more out-of-touch with mainstream Americans than Trump is.
Even a lot of Democrats are terrified that Elizabeth Warren or Bernie Sanders can’t defeat a wounded Trump. The archliberal wing of the party controls the nomination process, pushing all the candidates to the left.
In Utah, these dynamics will hurt Democrats if Republicans can nationalize the election and tie Utah Democratic candidates to leftist plans and policies and highlight the Democratic obsession with impeachment instead of letting voters choose.
Utah Democrats will need to distance themselves from the “crazy stuff” Obama alluded to — like forced Medicare (whether you want it or not), the multitrillion-dollar Green New Deal, free college (even for the rich), open borders, higher taxes, free health care for illegal immigrants, and on and on.
Trump could be an albatross for some Utah Republican candidates, but he also energizes the base.
National Republicans are spending $250,000 in ads targeting Utah Democratic Congressman Ben McAdams for his support of the impeachment inquiry and his association with liberal congressional personalities (i.e. Nancy Pelosi, Adam Schiff, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez). Will the ad campaign influence McAdams’ eventual vote on impeachment and how will it impact his reelection?
Pignanelli: These commercials accentuate that McAdams needs a strong personal message on impeachment that appeals to center right voters, the majority in his district. This requirement is especially emphasized as he has no control over the eventual public perception on impeachment, as it will be determined by external factors. So, a clear strategy towards the progressive faction is an imperative.
Webb: Utahns don’t appreciate outside interest groups injecting themselves into Utah politics. So the ad campaign will probably help McAdams more than hurt him.
But McAdams is in a delicate spot with an impeachment vote pending. It will test his political skills. His liberal constituents will be very angry if he doesn’t vote to toss Trump out of office. But a majority of his constituents likely believe Trump’s behavior was highly inappropriate, but doesn’t rise to the level of impeachment, especially less than a year before voters will determine his fate. That position would be a good spot for McAdams to land.
Bernie Sanders captured almost 85% of the Utah primary caucus vote in 2016. Does a moderate have a chance to attract Utah Democrats in the 2020 presidential primary?
Pignanelli: The leftists will be organized again to deliver a similar return next year. But they will be split between Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. Thus, Pete Buttigieg may have a chance to walk through the division and score a win.
Webb: Utah has some moderate Democrats, but the party base is as liberal as any place in the country. So Utah Democrats are likely to give their primary votes to an archliberal, rather than to a moderate like Joe Biden or Amy Klobuchar.
Lots of Intrigue and Strategy in Race for Governor.
Pignanelli & Webb
With the municipal election behind us, all eyes are on 2020 and particularly the race for Utah governor — the first truly open gubernatorial race in 28 years (since Gov. Norm Bangerter retired in 1992). The intrigue is well worth exploring.
Under Utah law, any number of candidates can win a spot on the primary ballot through the convention process or by gathering signatures — or both. With a crowded field, concern is being expressed the GOP primary winner could emerge with a relatively small percentage of the primary election vote. Is this a real problem? Will the Legislature act to fine-tune party nomination procedures?
Pignanelli: “Politics is weird. I don’t even know what that means any more.” — John Cusack
The human body reacts well to quality nutritional inputs (i.e. vitamins, vegetables, meat, etc.). But too much of even wonderful ingredients cause stomach problems, skin lesions and other ailments. Similar ills befall political parties when too many qualified members are on the same ballot.
Multiparty democracies often provide opportunities for extreme candidates with narrow constituencies to win through low thresholds created by multiple stronger opponents. A similar situation is possible in the June GOP primary if several candidates are fielded.
Democrats and Independents changing party affiliation to vote in Republican primaries normally have nominal impact. But they could impact this unusual nomination selection. Since most will likely support a moderate, this could counter ultra conservatives.
Too much of good things are rarely beneficial (except Italian food and wine) and could affect the spring primary.
Webb: It’s likely that even with several attractive candidates, one or two will emerge as frontrunners and the top vote-getter will enjoy a solid plurality and be a strong nominee.
With a large field, immense intrigue and strategy exists as various “lanes” to the nomination are plotted with conservative and moderate vote-splitting. Lieutenant governor choices will play into this as well. Can an archconservative become the nominee if the moderates split the vote? Will Democrats register as Republicans and skew the primary vote?
In reality, none of this has been a real problem in the past. Many states have wide-open primaries and the best candidate usually emerges.
Still, it would be best if the Legislature created a runoff process so that if no candidate gets, say, at least 30% of the primary vote then the top two voter-getters square off in a runoff.
Pignanelli & Webb: Who are the candidates to watch in the gubernatorial race?
Spencer Cox: The lieutenant governor started early, looks good in the polls and he enjoys some impressive support. But can he maintain the momentum and withstand the onslaught of the heavy hitters?
Jon Huntsman Jr.: The recent announcement by the returning ambassador was not a surprise. With all of his assets, he has to be considered the frontrunner (who gets all the arrows). Will voters demand a promise to reject an offer for U.S. Secretary of State to finish a term?
Jeff Burningham: A majority of Utah governors have come from the outside business world. He has plenty of money. Can he build name ID and find the right message?
Greg Hughes: The hard-driving former speaker has been quiet for over a year, but has been raising money. Is there a conservative lane for him, or will he support another candidate or maybe end up as running mate to Huntsman?
Thomas Wright: The popular former state GOP chair has also been quiet, but working behind the scenes. He has the ability to unite the conservative and moderate wings of the party and will also be well-financed.
Aimee Winder Newton: The well-liked Salt Lake County Council member is a solid competitor and is the only female in the race. Can she overcome the historical disadvantage of launching from the county?
Spencer Eccles: This remarkable business leader gained respect as the director of the Governors Office of Economic Development and is well-regarded across the state. His good name and grasp of the issues would make him a strong contender. Will he run?
Rob Bishop: Worshipped by state delegates, the retiring congressman could shake up the race. But insiders don’t expect him to run.
Will the Democrats field a serious candidate?
Pignanelli: State Sen. Luz Escamilla will receive pressure but may be too exhausted after her mayoral campaign. Other legislators will be reluctant to give up their seats for a long shot. I suggest party chair and businessman Jeff Merchant, who is collecting bipartisan compliments for his style and substance. (This also alleviates the awful chore of finding someone.)
Webb: The Democrats won’t find a candidate who can win. But most Democrats like Huntsman and Cox. If they really want to have an impact on the gubernatorial election they would be wise to register as Republicans for the primary election and vote for the candidate most aligned with their ideology.
The World Series is over. What’s been happening in politics? Pignanelli & Webb
We’d much rather talk about baseball, but we’ll instead opine on politics.
Yes, more impeachment intrigue occurred last week. But, thankfully, it did not overshadow important municipal elections and a well-deserved parade for the World Series champs. We’d much rather talk about baseball, but we’ll instead opine on politics.
The Salt Lake City mayoral race ended as expected, with Councilwoman Erin Mendenhall earning a solid win. Do the municipal election results portend trends that will be manifest in the 2020 state and national political wars?
Pignanelli: “If elected I shall be thankful; if not, it will be all the same.” — Abraham Lincoln
To predict the future, fortune tellers use various tactics including tea leaves, tarot cards and roosters pecking grain. Similarly, political hacks (like us) rely on deciphering of polls, media statistics and election results to proclaim trends.
The West Jordan mayoral election may offer important insight. The popular incumbent, Jim Riding, lost to Councilman Dirk Burton substantially because residents were upset with a recent increase in water fees imposed by the city. Voters were unpersuaded by a policy of improving the water delivery infrastructure and expressed anger at the ballot box. Legislators should heed these lessons in the development of their tax reform proposals. (i.e. There can never be too much well-crafted messaging on such issues.)
The Salt Lake City mayor’s race was a clean uplifting battle between two competent visionary women. Unfortunately, such niceness did not prompt voter turn out. All hope this does not encourage negative campaigns but more creative efforts to encourage the electorate. Ogden Mayor Mike Caldwell won a tough election by reminding constituents about the renaissance his city is experiencing.
Understandably, politicos are weird but at least we are not using Haruspicy (examining the livers of sacrificed animals) to make predictions.
Webb: The overall low voter turnout means citizens are generally happy with the performance of their city and town governments, in contrast to their feelings about the federal government. In fact, recent polling conducted by UtahPolicy.com shows Utahns have vastly higher trust in their local governments than the federal government and significantly more than state government.
The people most interested voted, and those who weren’t motivated didn’t. That’s just fine with me. Let knowledgeable people who care about the issues determine the future.
Salt Lake City, my home for many years, is a vibrant, growing city and will do just fine under Mayor Mendenhall. From what I’ve seen, she will listen and govern in a collaborative fashion, seeking to work effectively with all city stakeholders, including the city council, the business community, the Legislature and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She appears to be progressive, but reasonable.
The usually mild-mannered Utah Congressman Chris Stewart is gaining media notoriety for his strong defense of President Trump in the impeachment proceedings. Is this smart politically for Stewart, or does it harm his re-election chances?
Pignanelli: The impeachment hearings of the House Intelligence Committee will dominate the news for many months. Stewart, as a member of the committee with bona fide experience in military and security matters, will garner serious national media exposure.
History documents others who occupied similar roles in congressional deliberations generated hatred from opponents, but displays of competence returned them to office.
Webb: Stewart is a responsible, honest politician who is seeing the evidence and doing what he thinks is right. It might be better politically for him to be more neutral and less outspoken. But he’s the kind of person who speaks up when he sees injustice and hypocrisy.
He knows that Trump is no angel. I don’t think he likes Trump’s style or personality. But he honestly doesn’t believe the Ukraine imbroglio rises to the level of an impeachable offense. He also correctly sees a lot of duplicity in the Democrats and the national news media. Good for Stewart for doing what’s right instead of hiding in the weeds.
Will Stewart’s high profile and Democrat Ben McAdams’ impeachment posture inject a massive infusion of money by outside special interest groups into their 2020 races?
Pignanelli: Utah’s roaring economy will feel another big bump in 2020 as multiple right and left wing groups hire staff, print literature and bombard the airwaves with predictable messages for or against these politicians. They will not care most voters will tune out the repetitive mantras as their primary goal is securing funds for the fight, not the outcome.
Webb: The Republicans are already targeting McAdams and Democrats will target Stewart. It will be even more intense if impeachment proceedings drag on into the election year.
What will the autumn political bounty bring? Mayoral race, impeachment and tax reform
By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb
Both capitals, Salt Lake City and Washington, D.C., are providing a fall harvest of political intrigue. We are happy to pick the crops and share the bounty.
A recent UtahPolicy.com survey conducted by Y2 Analytics showed Salt Lake City Council member Erin Mendenhall with a 10-point lead over state Sen. Luz Escamilla for Salt Lake City mayor. Geography, religious affiliation and prior experience seem to be playing roles in voter choices. How will things play out in Tuesday’s election?
Pignanelli: “Politics is rough and tumble everywhere but many women recoil from the negative aspect of its nastiness.” — Melanne Verveer
Voters in our religiously diverse capital city have reached a state of nirvana, the place of peace and happiness in Hinduism and Buddhism. The recent poll documents a strong majority of them have very favorable opinions of both mayoral candidates, who are controlling positive campaigns.
Mendenhall is leading by messaging her skills as an administrator. Each candidate is popular in their respective section of the city — an advantage to Mendenhall as her eastside neighbors vote in higher numbers.
Mendenhall impressed professionals with a very strategic primary campaign, focused on her council district. Politicos are observing a similar strategy on a citywide level, through a combination of retail canvassing and traditional media. Escamilla, with a compelling personal story, is dominating portions of social media and billboards. Hopefully, the religious bigots (unattached to the candidates) will fail in their desperate attempts to influence the contest.
Optimistically, the good karma created by these altruistic candidates will result in a community and city administration with similar attributes. We can all chant to that.
Webb: Barring any last-minute developments, my guess is that Mendenhall will be Salt Lake City’s next mayor. I was disappointed to see religious affiliation injected into the campaign and I think the mere fact that Escamilla is an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hurt her chances of being elected.
I was also disappointed in a letter sent by a group of LDS members to other church members (paid for by the Mendenhall campaign) endorsing Mendenhall using LDS buzzwords and phrases like “We’ve worshipped with her,” “visit taught her,” and “served with her.”
I have no problem with any group endorsing any candidate, including LDS members endorsing Mendenhall. But their letter using LDS buzzwords to hint LDS affiliation of some sort when Mendenhall’s campaign says she is “not LDS” was unfortunate. Had Escamilla’s campaign sent such a letter she would have been harshly criticized.
Last Thursday, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to formalize the procedures of the impeachment inquiry into Pres. Donald Trump. Congressman Ben McAdams was the only Utah member to vote for the resolution. Will this vote have any bearing on next year’s elections?
Pignanelli: The impeachment hearings, and Senate trial, will impact Utah’s 2020 elections. Despite Trump’s blasé approval ratings, any perception he is a victim will be problematic for Democrat candidates. Conversely, a fair investigation may bolster them.
The circus atmosphere surrounding the witness depositions diminished the respectability of the proceedings. Utahns will demand their congressional delegation restore some dignity to the process. So far this is occurring. To avoid repercussions, McAdams will especially need to exude maximum probity. The standing of our federal representatives a year from now will depend on the events, and how they respond.
Webb: Impeachment will continue to be a highly partisan, highly disputed circus that will prevent Congress from solving the country’s problems. I believe most Utahns don’t like Trump’s demeanor or style, but they don’t believe what he has done rises to the level of treason or high crimes and misdemeanors.
Democrats would be a lot smarter to censure him and then work to defeat him in 12 months, rather than put the country through the impeachment charade. There is a very good chance this will backfire on Democrats, hurting McAdams.
The Legislature’s Tax Restructuring and Equalization Task Force will be conducting additional public hearings in November to discuss draft legislation outlining tax reform plans. Is there enough support for meaningful tax reform to be passed in a December special session?
Pignanelli: In the public hearings, the common refrain of most Utahns to lawmakers was “We appreciate your efforts, but please do not rush this.” Because any tax reform has winners and losers, much messaging is required. This may take more than a few months.
Webb: Tax reform is incredibly difficult and a consensus will never be reached. But it’s worth the effort and lawmakers should get it done.
Remember that Utah taxes are low, both historically and compared to other states. Rebalancing the system is essential. The sales tax base needs to be broadened. User fees, like the fuel tax, need to be boosted. We need more money for teacher salaries.
Just do it. Some people will squeal, but real political leadership is about doing the hard stuff that ensures the state’s future success. I predict no one will lose their seat over wise and necessary tax reform.
What would politicians dress up as for Halloween? -Pignanelli and Webb
This is the week for zombies, apparitions and banshees... of course we’re talking about the U.S. Congress. Also, it’s Halloween. Although many of our politicians need no costume to be scary, we did a little research to help you recognize them when they show up on your doorstep for tricks or treats. You will want to hide the children.
Sen. Mitt Romney will be looking for tricks as “Pierre Delecto,” a French gigolo, the alias fronting his secret Twitter account used to defend himself against detractors. Everyone is excited to see this dude on their front porch. (You knew we couldn’t resist this.)
Inland Port protesters’ usual slapdash garb is more than satisfactory for the season’s terror. Their tricks include trespassing on private property, screaming nonsensical chants, shouting down speakers and haunting public hearings. They hope their antics are rewarded with candy — and not arrest warrants.
Utah Gov. Gary Herbert will be donning the costume of Dracula. This will help him “drain” all those donors at the governor’s fundraising gala on Friday evening.
Former Speaker Greg Hughes will be Hamlet, carrying a skull and chanting “to be or not to be... governor.”
Jon Huntsman Jr. will be Captain America, having vanquished foes in China and Russia and ready to challenge pesky obstacles in the governor’s mansion… and beyond.
Congressman Rob Bishop will be returning as Casper the Friendly Ghost, highlighting the fact that most Utahns love the representative, even though he’s mostly invisible.
Gayle Ruzicka will not need to wear a costume again this year, as most lawmakers are already scared to death of this nice grandmother.
House Speaker Brad Wilson will sport Batman attire, the Caped Crusader of Tax Reform, crushing the evil enemy of maladjusted revenues.
Senate President Stuart Adams will seek treats as Gandalf the Grey, effortlessly and effectively leading his fellowship of senators through the scary forest filled with protestors, lobbyists and House members.
Hillary Clinton will don a Tulsi Gabbard costume and trick-or-treat as a Russian asset.
House Minority Leader Brian King is Harry Potter, hoping the wand can be waved to bring more Democrats to Capitol Hill.
Senate Minority Leader Karen Mayne will be dressed as Maleficent, because she intimidates most men on Capitol Hill.
Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox will don the attire of St. Francis, because he loves all creatures, especially that blue bird named Twitter.
Donald Trump needs no costume. His flaming red hair terrifies Democrats and the news media hoping to drive an impeachment stake through his heart.
Atty. Gen. Sean Reyes will be the new rap sensation “SRaze!”, rhyming and bouncing his songs against traffickers, white-collar criminals and grumpy legislators.
Congressman Ben McAdams will be stretchy superhero “Plastic Man,” demonstrating an uncanny ability to adapt and twist in response to pressures from the left and right.
Salt Lake City mayoral candidates Erin Mendenhall and Luz Escamilla will be Tweedledee and Tweedledum; the only difference is who can shout the loudest hate toward the Inland Port.
Congressman Chris Stewart will dress up like the fighter pilot he is, only with a twist: He’ll be Trump’s wing man, machine guns blazing, in the impeachment debates.
Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson will be Captain Marvel, reflecting her visits to the border, fighting for liberal ideals and defending the county (which needs much defending).
State Sen. Curt Bramble will be his usual human tornado.
This column once described him as “The Force,” so it’s only natural that state Auditor John Dougall, costumed as Darth Vader, continues to terrorize small government agencies.
Former Sen. Pat Jones, CEO of the Women’s Leadership Institute, will be Wonder Woman as she courageously elevates the stature of female leadership in Utah.
Sen. Mike Lee will seek treats as Thor, using his hammer to smash any incidents of unconstitutional behavior.
Former congressman and Fox News contributor Jason Chaffetz will be sporting a ninja warrior outfit demonstrating his combat readiness to challenge (and write books about) the ever-present threat of the Deep State.
Mayor Jackie Biskupski will be dressed as Joan of Arc — leading a charge whether her troops are with her or not.
Third District Congressman John Curtis will be wearing his motorcycle leathers — roaring away from all the nonsense in Washington.
Pignanelli and Webb will seek treats while dressed as potted plants, reflecting both their intelligence and personalities. By the way, Webb prefers Kit Kats... Pignanelli likes tater tots.
Election is referendum on Trump, but also on leftist Democratic positions - Pignanelli and Webb
The 2020 election focus has mostly been on President. Donald Trump — especially impeachment, the economy, foreign relations and his combative and unpredictable personality. But the Democratic presidential race is picking up steam and the positions of Democratic candidates are also attracting attention. All of this will affect politics in Utah.
What is the impact of the Democratic presidential debates and town halls, both nationally and in Utah?
Pignanelli: “It’s autumn. The days are getting shorter, and so is the life expectancy of all but the strongest presidential campaigns.” — Anthony Zurcher, BBC
Viewers of last week’s debate were witness to a modern medical miracle. Several of the candidates apparently underwent a successful spinal implant operation. This is the most plausible explanation for the moderates’ newfound strength to openly challenge the liberal lions — especially Sen. Elizabeth Warren.
Until Tuesday night, the hurtling trajectory of the Democratic Party to the extreme left seemed unstoppable. But Sen. Amy Klobuchar and Mayor Pete Buttigieg served notice that wild fantasies of expanding government programs must be accompanied by credible funding mechanisms. This open split with the frontrunner provides a safe harbor for rational Democrats in red states. Although progressives will grumble, candidates representing Utah’s minority party now have permission to craft a persona that appeals to the mainstream voter.
Whether through a spine stiffener, eating spinach or consuming strength hormones, Utah Democrats can replicate efforts of the recent debate’s practical contenders in pushing back against pressures from the left.
Webb: The 2020 election will mostly be a referendum on Trump. But smart voters will also consider the big picture being illustrated by the far-left Democrats and what they promise — lots of free stuff at the cost of skyrocketing taxes, an exploding deficit, socialized health care, wide open borders, abortion at any point in a pregnancy, draconian regulation on businesses, harsh gun restrictions, destruction of the energy industry, and arch-liberal judges.
Sure, I could spend all day listing the things I don’t like about Trump (although I do like some of the things he’s done). But anyone obsessed with Trump’s many faults also needs to consider the alternatives. And, in my opinion, they are worse.
I think the country can handle another four years of Trump. The economy is doing great. Never-ending wars are actually winding down. But I’m not sure the country can survive four or eight years of Elizabeth Warren, whose policies would spell economic ruin.
Americans who like their jobs, higher wages, lower taxes and economic freedom are smart enough to know that all that free stuff, the big-government solutions, the nationalizing of entire industries, will reverse the great economic times we’re enjoying.
Navigating these political shoals is tricky for Utah’s congressional delegation, particularly Rep. Ben McAdams. Will he embrace his party’s presidential frontrunner? Will he vote to impeach Trump? He’s tiptoeing on a political knife edge.
On the Senate side, Sen. Mitt Romney obviously dislikes Trump. But will his dislike help enable an Elizabeth Warren presidency?
Utah Sen. Mike Lee garnered headlines by demanding that presidential candidate Beto O’Rourke “take back” his statement that religious organizations which do not recognize same-sex marriage should lose nonprofit status. Will such statements by Democratic candidates on that and other topics like guns, health care and immigration hurt them in Utah?
Pignanelli: Lee performed an immense service to the country … and Democrats. Somebody has to stop the world’s oldest political party from self-immolation. Most presidential candidates are groveling before leftist special interest groups, declaring outrageous claims to secure their support. This is resulting in expressions of support for decriminalizing illegal border crossings, student loan amnesty, increased taxes, mandatory gun buyback programs, punishing traditional organized religion, etc. Americans, including mainstream Democrats and independents are very uncomfortable with such obsequiousness. They are more interested in hearing ideas to promote jobs and security.
Lee is signaling that caution and rational behavior must be exercised, because the opposition is watching … and remembering.
Webb: A thoughtful, centrist, highly-qualified Democratic candidate could probably defeat Trump. But the Democratic nomination process (and the impeachment process) has been co-opted by the far left. That is the Democrats’ biggest problem and it’s why Trump has a reasonable chance to win.
Former Vice President Joe Biden is fairly well-liked in Utah. Will he survive the nomination process?
Pignanelli: During the debate, Biden offered a flimsy response to the Ukraine controversy involving his son that failed to alleviate anxiety. The impeachment process will continue for many months, every day of which will remind voters of Biden’s connection to this debacle, thereby strangling his campaign.
Webb: Biden is the most reasonable Democratic candidate, although he has been forced to pander to the far left to try to win the nomination. Unfortunately, Biden is too old, not sharp enough, and not purist enough to satisfy the liberal Democratic base and win the nomination.
What can really be done about gun control? Pignanelli and Webb
Gun control legislation remains a hot topic at both the national and state levels, despite being overshadowed by impeachment proceedings and tax reform.
Gun control legislation remains a hot topic at both the national and state levels, despite being overshadowed by impeachment proceedings and tax reform. Polls show increasing support among Utahns and citizens nationwide for action. Keep your hand away from your holster as we explain and explore.
A representative sample consisting of more than 1,000 Utah registered voters were surveyed in UtahPolicy.com/Y2 Analytics poll showing that some 88% of respondents support requiring background checks on all gun sales; 87% wish to prevent sales to those deemed dangerous by a mental health professional. Other gun control provisions like three-day waiting periods and age restrictions were supported by a majority of respondents. Why is there now a shift in public opinion in favor of gun control?
Pignanelli: “I have a love interest in every one of my films: a gun.” — Arnold Schwarzenegger
Books and television programs with the dystopian theme of Soviet or Axis Power domination of North America (i.e. “Amerika,” “Man in High Castle,” etc.) are very different but do share one common theme — the Rocky Mountain region is labeled “neutral” or “autonomous” or “unoccupied” zones. Even in these fantasies, the authors clearly understand that westerners — with guns they love — can repel any foreign invaders.
Utahns are a peaceful, well-armed people steeped with deep basic common sense. They are troubled and alarmed by the dangerous mentally deranged with high-powered weapons. So recent mass shootings compel expressions of their concerns to pollsters with recognition of background checks and other measures to enhance safety.
But such statements to a series of questions are not a departure from customary views. The use and care of guns for traditional activities (i.e. hunting, sports shooting, etc.) are a legacy for many Utah families, including mine. Thus, a substantial majority of respondents concurred in the poll, “It is the responsibility of families and communities to solve the problem of mass shooting in the United States”. While some measures are acceptable, overreaching attempts to regulate gun ownership that interfere with our local heritage will be resisted.
Whether in tales of fact or fiction, Utahns’ relationship with guns demands understanding by advocates on all sides of the issue.
Webb: We have all seen too many mass shootings not to be concerned about gun violence, even though, overall, gun-related crimes are declining in our country. Citizens obviously want action — even, apparently, symbolic action that won’t really have much impact. Pervasive and unrelenting news coverage of innocent people being killed have understandably created a furor to “do something.”
I own guns, but I favor reasonable gun legislation. I’m fine with background checks, “red flag” laws and I certainly support better mental health assistance and better identification of potentially dangerous people. I oppose bans or confiscation of semi-automatic rifles.
But I question whether many of these measures will really do much to reduce gun violence. Law-abiding people, me included, will obey reasonable gun laws. Trouble is, criminals, by definition, won’t. It’s criminals who murder people. With 300 million firearms out there in America (and 55% of Utah households have guns), with more sold every day, not many practical ways exist to control guns.
One area where some gun control measures could be effective is with suicides. Easy access to a gun can be deadly for someone contemplating suicide. Even regarding suicide, however, the answers are complex and difficult.
Because a strong majority of Utahns want some action, will gun control legislation be passed in the upcoming Utah legislative session?
Pignanelli: Because 2020 is an election year, enactment of legislation is unlikely. Outrageous comments by national politicians (“Yes, we are coming to get your guns!”) are spooking voters and creating obstacles for productive discussions. However, there is potential of a task force or some committee study to review and develop modifications, along with proper messaging, for legislative deliberations in the future.
Webb: A variety of gun laws will be introduced. I’d like to see a reasonable “red flag” law passed. But it’s doubtful that much of substance will be enacted. Human nature being what it is, action might depend on how fresh the horror of a mass shooting is.
Will Congress do anything on gun control, especially in the midst of impeachment?
Pignanelli: Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell publicly declared he would not consider gun legislation until President Donald Trump requested such. Trump, and much of Congress, will distracted on other matters for many months. Anything soon is unlikely.
Webb: Politicians will try to convince us they’re working hard in Washington, solving the problems of America. Don’t believe it. Anything they do will be small potatoes.
When something bad happens they will, as usual, express outrage, demand investigations and find someone to blame. Otherwise, it will be all charges and counter charges over impeachment, and little else will be accomplished. Dysfunction and gridlock prevail.
