COVID-19 has upended Utah’s election campaigns, but that might not be such a bad thing

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

Although Utahns are appropriately distracted by a major issue affecting their lives, we do politely remind readers that the 2020 election rolls on. Of course, thanks to the pandemic, this may be the most unusual campaign season since statehood. We explore some of the extraordinary dynamics.

The biggest issue confounding all candidates seems to be a lack of attention by the electorate. What other challenges are candidates facing?

Pignanelli: “Voters are looking not just for someone who can lead us in good times but can lead us through challenges and change. So, this is a good chance for voters to examine how candidates are responding to this new stress and challenge.” — Boyd Matheson, opinion editor, Deseret News, Hinckley Report

It does seem as if invisible aliens invaded Earth and completely altered civilization. Everything is impacted, including how we elect our leaders.

First, candidates have an extraordinary obstacle to motivate party activists and voters refocus their thought processes on activities other than those related to the pandemic and the economy. Traditionally, in these weeks leading up to conventions, delegates expected face-to-face encounters with office seekers in their living rooms and at food-centered events. Also, campaign expectations could be altered by a failed or riveting speech at a convention. Those opportunities no longer exist.

The usual advantages of name recognition, organization and access to resources remain. But rallies, fundraisers, canvassing, “honk and waves,” cottage “meet and greets” and any personal contact with voters are now impossible to conduct. Although many will not admit it, political consultants and election experts are unsure how to succeed in this new environment. They are anxiously guessing and conjecturing how to distribute the message of their candidates to secure support.

Responding to this alien invasion is now the primary requirement of a successful candidate.

Webb: Campaigning is inherently an activity requiring personal contact and interaction, especially in primary elections. Thus, a campaign hindered by social distancing tests candidates as never before. This is especially true because traditional TV, radio and newspaper advertising aren’t as effective as in the past.

Like everything else, campaigning is going online, and especially to social media. As an old guy who doesn’t pay much attention to social media, it’s hard for me to judge how well the candidates are doing.

The pandemic has upended the usual campaign processes. Caucuses have been canceled. Conventions will be held virtually. In-person voting may be in jeopardy. No door-to-door signature gathering. Many aspects of the 2020 election have been dramatically altered.

And voters simply aren’t as interested in politics when health is in danger and the economy is collapsing. It’s hard to attract the attention of ordinary Utahns. It’s also more difficult to raise money.

The candidates who are most nimble and innovative will prosper — and also those who start with the advantage of being well-known and well-financed. Namely Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox and former Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. in the gubernatorial race.

The pandemic has also upended the presidential race. It will be even more of a referendum on President Donald Trump’s performance, especially his coronavirus response. Trump’s biggest strength — a booming economy — could turn into a big weakness if we are in a deep recession come November. Meanwhile, former Vice President Joe Biden can barely gets any attention.

Most of the Republican gubernatorial candidates have already declared a running mate. Are there any surprises, and do these selections help any campaigns?

Pignanelli: Normally, ruminating over running mates were fascinating exercises conducted by political insiders as these candidates could impact convention results but rarely determined the trajectory of a campaign afterward. This year may be different. Because of the new atmosphere, a well-known or uniquely branded lieutenant governor candidate can influence a virtual convention and the primary election. This could explain why only one “LG” prospect does not have a connection to Utah County.

Webb: In recent history, we’ve had two lieutenant governors become governor. So voters should pay extra attention to running mates and whether they are capable of taking over as governor should the occasion arise.

In general, the lieutenant governor selections have been capable people. Thomas Wright scored the biggest-name running mate in Rep. Rob Bishop, who considered running for governor himself.

Are any further executive orders expected from Gov. Gary Herbert suspending existing statutory election requirements in response to the pandemic?

Pignanelli: This may seem morbid, but changes to existing election laws in the near future by the governor or the Legislature depends upon the state curve of COVID-19 cases. Because I believe that Utah will be out of this thicket much sooner than predicted, there will be less pressure for modifications.

Webb: Depending on the status of the pandemic, in-person voting could be suspended. Long-term, the signature gathering process needs to be improved by reducing the number of signatures required. A runoff system is also needed.

Utahns show how to respond to the crisis of a lifetime

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

Pignanelli & Webb: The Utah Way. During the roaring economy we heard much about this mindset in our state. Some mock the suggestion that the Beehive State is actually different than other states. Others stand by it with fervent passion. Because your columnists are true believers, we offer our perspective on how our citizens and leaders once again are leading the country in the COVID-19 battle.

We start by thanking and recognizing thousands of unsung heroes who are showing dedication and commitment despite daily hazards. These are regular Utahns — the grocery store clerks, delivery workers, utility personnel, gas station attendants, truck drivers, railroad freight haulers, public safety workers, and especially doctors, nurses and other health care professionals — all who can’t shelter at home but continue to serve us and keep society going. They provide the necessities and services all of us need — while putting themselves at risk.

On March 27, Gov. Gary Herbert issued his coronavirus directive, “Stay Safe, Stay Home.” His plan, “Utah Leads Together,” is the most comprehensive and detailed combination of guidance and orders issued by any state during the pandemic. Utahns’ health and economic interests are prioritized and protected. Many leading experts have praised the effort. Polls indicate overwhelming support for the governor and his leadership. Further, though the number of those who contracted the virus increases, the rate is among the lowest in the nation. Who are the authors of this historic mobilization?

“This is not my plan … this is our plan.” — Gov. Herbert, at the unveiling of his “Stay Safe, Stay Home” directive.

Our state was founded on a legacy of hardship and sacrifice. So, it makes sense that the “Utah Way” really shines through in times of crisis. Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox is the most recognizable name and face leading the broad community task force responding to the pandemic. Derek Miller, president and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber, chairs the Economic Response Task Force. Behind these individuals and the governor, are numerous Utahns who set aside their personal lives to develop and execute this collaborative approach.

Key in this effort has been Natalie Gochnour, associate dean of the University of Utah David Eccles School of Business and director of the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute. Gochnour calibrated the health and economic dynamics to ensure both positive and practical outcomes. Her team at the Gardner Institute included Associate Director Jennifer Robinson; Juliette Tennert, director of economics and public policy; and Paul Springer, designer.

Kristen Cox, executive director, Governor’s Office Management and Budget, continues to play her important role of applying rigorous metrics and strong accountability to government actions and expenditures. (She is truly an unsung hero for many of the state’s achievements.)

Theresa Foxley, president and CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Utah, has contributed her knowledge of local business and its interactions with government and community organizations. Clark Ivory, chairman of Ivory Homes, and Michael Parker, Ivory VP Public Affairs, assisted in the development of the economic strategy.

Utah has its own version of Dr. Anthony Fauci (director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease) in Dr. Angela Dunn — a seasoned health professional providing factual but calm counsel. Dr. Dunn is a preventative medicine physician and the state epidemiologist from the Utah Department of Health. She is providing needed warnings combined with a reassuring tone. The careful attention to health care in the document is reflective of her influence.

It’s one thing to have a plan, it’s another to implement it. Another individual who has served and benefited many Utahns with no concern for credit is Spencer P. Eccles. The former director of the Governors Office of Economic Development and current managing director of the Cynosure Group, Eccles has taken the lead to use the resources the University of Utah Business School to distribute much needed information to Utah’s businesses. Along with College Dean Taylor Randall, Eccles and his team will make a difference in the economic revival of the state.

The Governor’s Office of Economic Development Executive Director Val Hale, along with Workforce Services Executive Director Jon Pierpont and World Trade Center President Miles Hansen (with the support of their amazing staff) are executing the imperative financial and technical assistance programs systems to Utah businesses.

Wisely, this newspaper limits the size of this column. So, we cannot list everybody who stepped up in remarkable ways. But we thank everyone who is serving our state and its people.

A Deseret News/ Hinckley Institute poll reveals that 81% of Utahns approve of the state government response to the pandemic. Why is this significant?

“The Utah Way” could not be a consistent dynamic without the sustenance of millions of Utahns regardless of their age, party affiliation, faith or color. Residents have the common sense to understand our leaders are working tirelessly to achieve success under dire conditions. Even 70% of Democrats support the Herbert administration in this regard.

Will the governor’s plan impact the current erosion of trust in public institutions?

We believe Utahns’ respect for state and local institutions will be enhanced by the end of the pandemic.

Health vs. the economy — the politics of COVID-19

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

Politics never shelters in place ... even in a pandemic. The wrangling in Congress over the relief package, sparring between the president and opponents, and disagreements over prioritizing health or the economy demonstrate this reality.

Utah politicians are also maneuvering and seeking advantage, although in rather subdued ways compared to the nastiness elsewhere. We inoculate our readers against political confusion.

Last week, Gov. Gary Herbert announced a three-phase economic response plan: Urgent Phase, Stabilization Phase and Recovery Phase, lasting about 8-10 weeks each. Some Utahns are demanding a mandatory shutdown of the state (shelter at home) while others suggest more targeted restrictions to maintain economic activity. Does the Herbert task force plan satisfy both sides?

Pignanelli: “Public health looks to separate people. Our economy is built on integrating people. Both principles have to be implemented in a coordinated fashion.” — Rahm Emanuel, former mayor of Chicago

The last severe pandemic was more than 100 years ago. Thus, advances in technology, transportation and culture necessitates the proverbial wheel be reinvented for a response. Among educated professionals, there is a tug of war of whether the government should mandate all but essential personnel remain at home versus more strategic — less strident — actions.

A whispered analysis is being conducted outside polite conversation. With limited testing COVID-19 has 1.43% fatality rate in the U.S. (Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine). Does this statistic warrant a shutdown of the economy with Depression era results?

Because of the crushing impact upon health care facilities, many are claiming strong lockdown measures are needed. But an increasing number of recognized experts in the country are articulating legitimate concerns such a “cure” is more devastating than the disease, urging alternative targeted policies. A recent editorial penned by state Sen. Dan Hemmert, state Rep. Mike Shultz, state Auditor John Dougall and former GOP Chairman Thomas Wright offers a thoughtful, compelling process — focused on testing and procuring adequate medical resources through the private sector.

The Herbert administration deserves immense credit for leadership in providing a course of action that protects the economy, with sensitivity to public health. Implementation (aka inventing this wheel) will be difficult, but imperative.

Webb: Politicians can’t keep everyone happy, but the state response has been good. We need a lot more data to say whether we’ve overreacted to the pandemic or haven’t been strict enough. Until we have the data, we must err on the side of caution.

Everyone wants to stay healthy. But everyone also wants to have jobs to support their families. The politicians, relying on the data and the best medical science, must find the right balance.

We need millions of tests, including random sample testing, to know how many people have been infected, the hospitalization rate, and the actual death rate. The problem is, we have to make decisions without all the data. Protecting life right now is more important than work. Jobs will eventually return. Dead people won’t.

But it is a balance. We already tolerate many deaths, injuries and disease because the economic cost is too high to eliminate all of it. We actually could eliminate almost all deaths and injury from auto accidents, and deaths from the common flu — if we were draconian enough and willing to destroy the economy.

But we don’t want to live in a prescriptive, dictatorial society with little freedom or economic opportunity. We will eventually know the real rates of infection, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. And we’ll have immunizations and treatments. Then society will adjust appropriately.

Will the state response to the pandemic, and those of other elected officials, be used as campaign issues in the upcoming primary and general elections?

Pignanelli: Utahns are filled with common sense and compassion but will hold officials accountable for perceived carelessness. Candidates seeking to replace Herbert will soon need to promote their detailed position on this subject. By the fall, other candidates will face similar standards. Unfortunately, no one knows the ultimate result that will be the touchstone for judgment.

Webb: The crisis is currently a political benefit for incumbents and well-known candidates, simply because traditional campaigning has been upended, citizens aren’t paying much attention to politics, and candidates have had to reinvent their campaigns and messaging on the fly. That provides an advantage to candidates who are already well-known.

At the federal level, President Donald Trump’s reelection will be largely determined by the success or failure of his coronavirus response. He has been harshly criticized for suggesting that at least part of the country could be reopened, with proper precautions, by Easter. But perhaps he will be right.

Gov. Herbert has issued an executive order allowing candidates seeking placement on the primary election ballot to gather signatures without personal contact. Was this needed?

Pignanelli: The first phase of the Herbert coronavirus plan includes “extensive social distancing.” It is impossible to conduct a productive conversation with a prospective signatory more than 6 feet away. An emergency situation compels creative solutions to protect this element of democracy.

Webb: This election is like no other. Temporary emergency measures to facilitate ballot access and citizen involvement are entirely appropriate.

The Great Shakeout:

The morning of March 18th a 5.7 magnitude earthquake shook all of Northern Utah. Fortunately the Fox & Pig offices were not damaged, and all of the staff and our families are safe. Several historic buildings downtown and near the epicenter in Magna suffered damage, some cosmetic and some structural. Even the historic Mormon Temple in Salt Lake suffered minimal damage. 

How will the coronavirus pandemic affect Utah politics, elections?

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

The coronavirus has changed everyone’s lives. And last Wednesday’s earthquake spooked Utahns. The impact of both crises on the political world will be very significant in the weeks and months ahead. We offer our perspectives.

Many Utah political offices are up for grabs this autumn. How must campaigns adapt to reach voters and make their cases at a time of social distancing and almost no meetings or personal contact?

Pignanelli: “Sometimes paranoia is just good sense.” — Peggy Noonan, Wall Street Journal

As with most Utahns, I spent Wednesday morning planning my daily response to the pandemic. After the tremors subsided, I declared out loud: “Really? What’s next, locusts?” Insightful politicians comprehend such apprehensions shared among the Utah electorate. Yet, they are deprived of the traditional means of expressing empathy available to humans for thousands of years.

This problem is further compounded by the necessary decisions of both parties to cancel precinct caucuses and empower the delegates elected in 2018 to serve in their capacities in 2020. No federal and state candidates (except some legislative contenders) participated in recruiting and electing these delegates. The tradition of hosting events for delegates is forbidden and conventions will be conducted online. This is a huge shift and the delegate/convention system may not survive as the shift to primary elections becomes more practical.

Social media along with the usual routes of television, radio and mail will be extensively utilized. The large number of gubernatorial, congressional and legislative candidates demands that only the most creative and powerful messages will be absorbed. Cookie cutter commercials and advertisements will likely fail.

Hopefully by November the virus, earthquakes and other biblical horrors will have ceased, revealing which candidates are the most adaptable.

Webb: This is a really weird time for politics. When our normal comfortable lives and routines are abruptly upended by pestilence or earthquakes, we quickly turn our attention to the basics of survival and making sure our families and friends are OK. Politics becomes suddenly secondary.

At times like this, voters aren’t much interested in seeing typical campaign commercials or speeches about how great a candidate is. They’re looking for reassuring leadership, not self-serving messaging or attack ads. Traditional campaigning is awkward.

And the process of campaigning has changed dramatically. No more door-to-door contacts. No more in-person campaign rallies or speeches. The usual events where candidates appear or speak have all been canceled. Debates will be virtual.

This will be a real test of a candidate’s ability to pivot quickly and adapt to the new realities. Social media was already very important, but now it is paramount. Reaching the right audiences with the right messages is entirely possible via social media, but it will test a candidate’s expertise and communications instincts.

Smart use of traditional broadcast and print media, along with creative public relations, will be good channels to build support as citizens tune in to get the latest crisis news.

Will the crisis create an advantage or disadvantage for incumbents in the coming elections?

Pignanelli: Office holders and seekers who truly comprehend the current emotions of voters in this changed environment, and craft their messaging accordingly, will succeed. Those who rely solely on past methods, do so at a risk.

Webb: It’s tricky for incumbents, but an advantage for them if they perform well. As they suspend traditional campaign activities, they have other opportunities to get before the media and reassure citizens. If they’re seen as exploiting the crisis, it will backfire. As state coronavirus czar and gubernatorial candidate, Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox has the most to gain — or lose if he does not rise to the occasion.

In times of great need, even anti-government people look to government and political leaders for help. Is this crisis a validation of the importance of government in our lives? Will governments measure up to the challenge?

Pignanelli: Americans work every day to perform or suffer the consequences. So, they expect their elected and appointed government officials to provide services, especially in emergencies. Most Utahns correctly have confidence in the state and local jurisdictions whose record of success is unassailable. But the feds garner mixed reviews.

An ardent capitalist and defender of the free market, I believe in certain roles for government — especially management of a public safety crisis. Citizens appropriately demand officials abandon partisanship and self-promotion for the greater good. Utah leaders will respond accordingly — as usual. Hopefully, national politicians use this opportunity to reverse the erosion of respect.

Webb: Just like there aren’t many atheists in a foxhole, there aren’t many anti-government people in times of crisis. A major catastrophe takes away the ability of people to take care of themselves, and can even overwhelm the capacity of neighbors, nonprofits and churches to meet the needs.

So, government steps in, and especially the federal government, with few limits on its ability to borrow and spend. There are always fits and starts in gearing up to confront a major catastrophe and ensuing economic crisis. Given all of that, I think the coronavirus response on the local, state and federal levels has been quite good. President Trump’s own messaging has been mixed, but he has surrounded himself with some excellent people who keep the nation reassured.

It’s establishment Biden vs. revolutionary Bernie

Anyone who believes politics is boring likely does not have a pulse. Last week demonstrated the capriciousness of politics, nationally and locally. We explore the ramifications of the presidential primary and the unusual pressures in the legislative budget process.

Presumed dead, former Vice President Joe Biden defied all expectations and is now the front-runner for the Democratic nomination. Yet, in Utah, he did poorly, while Sen. Bernie Sanders won big. What does this say about local politics?

Pignanelli: “Bloomberg proved … a presidential nomination can’t be bought with all the money in the world.” — Jeff Greenfield

The old canard a Utah Democrat is a Republican anywhere else was finally demolished last week. Sanders garnered almost 80% in 2016 and placed first this year with 35% against a much wider field. Combined with 15% captured by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, firm evidence demonstrates the progressive left is a major influence in Utah’s Democrat party.

Other surrounding states also went for Sanders, highlighting major demographic shifts in the Western United States. These include the rise of Latino and millennial voters, indicating strong trends in regions with expanding populations.

Utah Democrats seeking federal office or state positions in swing districts must appeal to independent and moderate Republican voters to succeed. But a strident progressive element demanding adherence to all their positions makes this problematic. The ultimate nominee selected will either soften or empower this emerging dynamic.

A new canard for Utah Democrats could be written this year.

Webb: The Bernie win shows that while Utah is one of the nation’s most conservative states, Utah Democrats are as liberal — or more so — as anywhere in the country.

Assuming Biden wins the nomination, having him at the top of the ticket won’t especially excite Utah Democrats, but Biden is a lot better for down-ballot Democrats than Sanders. One warning sign for Utah Democrats is that Republican voting in the Utah primary was dramatically higher than Democratic voting, even though Republicans had little motivation to vote. Trump received over 100,000 more votes than all the Democrats combined. That’s good news for Republican congressional candidates. It means Congressman Ben McAdams will need a lot of Republicans and independents to cross over and vote for him. Bloomberg’s poor finish shows, as elsewhere in the country, that money can’t buy political love. The Democratic primary is now a two-person race between Biden and Sanders. Will this be a protracted fight to the convention?

Pignanelli: Older traditional Democrats finally expressed their opposition to an avowed socialist taking over their party. They appreciated the Vermont senator’s compassion, but feared the potential disaster with him as a nominee. But Tuesday nights results also revealed that an internecine war is further developing. In almost every state, adding Sanders’ and Warren’s results, while comparing them to the combination of Biden and Michael Bloomberg, reveals an almost even split between far left and moderate camps. In Utah and other states, the factions will argue over local conventions, delegates, party machinery and other elements of control. This is a fight of ideology and personality (Bernie vs. Joe), so the two major candidates are incentivizing deep emotion amongst their followers. Webb: Biden will win the nomination because Democrats finally got real. Boring Biden is a lot safer than revolutionary Bernie. So, the Democrats’ rousing 2020 rallying cry is going to be: “Vote for Joe. He’s safe!” That should inspire a lot of Democratic voters. Of course, in the age of Trump disruption and chaos, perhaps humdrum safety is what voters want. But, remember, Democrats tried a safe, establishment candidate in Hillary Clinton and it didn’t work so well. The full spotlight of media and Republican scrutiny will now be focused on Biden. Whether he can hold up is an open question. Over the years, many candidates have emerged as front-runners, only to fade under the glare. And Trump would easily win if he would just stop being crazy. He gets the big things right, but then squanders the goodwill with stupid tweets. I expect much more turmoil before this thing is over. And the coronavirus impact is unknown. In the midst of the primary hoopla, Utah lawmakers continue to grind through the state budget process. Despite a booming economy, Utah’s general fund simply cannot keep up with basic demands. How will lawmakers deal with these challenges? Pignanelli: Legislators should — but will not — hang a huge banner in front of the state Capitol declaring, “We told you so.” The revenue problems of the general fund are creating consternation for policymakers and recipients. There will be some suffering at every agency but education. Further, there will be a variety of traditional and creative taxing tools to alleviate the shortfall. Webb: The general fund shortfalls are evidence that tax reform is desperately needed. Lawmakers will muddle through this session, but Utah’s next governor has a big problem. Legislators know how to solve the problem, but can they convince wary voters that fixing Utah’s structural imbalance is in everyone’s best interest?

Why the 2020 legislative session may go down as the strangest in modern history

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

Veteran observers and insiders are concluding that the 2020 legislative session is perhaps the most unique — if not the strangest — in modern history. Since your columnists are rather strange themselves, we’re well-qualified to explain the peculiarities.

What are some of the unusual dynamics surrounding lawmakers, advocates and lobbyists at the Capitol?

Pignanelli & Webb: “Voters don’t decide issues, they decide who will decide issues.” — George Will

Well, here’s a partial list of abnormal items, starting with Utah issues: Looming above the session has been the specter of a face-slapping referendum that gathered 150,000 signatures and repealed tax reform approved a month earlier ... a wacky revenue forecast of a huge surplus for the school fund, but tight constraints in the general fund ... numerous lawmakers facing intraparty challenges by opponents grumpy about tax reform ... the issue that never dies: Medicaid expansion ... disposition of another citizen initiative, this one creating a commission to redraw legislative and congressional district boundaries ... more marijuana stuff ... constituent pressures to lower pharmaceutical costs ... the never-ending inland port battle ... and legislative action sponsored by Republicans targeting a Republican U.S. senator.

And overshadowing the session are a couple of national issues: A roller-coaster stock market and recession fears caused by threat of a global coronavirus pandemic ... and a screwy presidential election in which a proud socialist could be elected. Whew!

What are the chances of tax reform, or even a cut? Anything else?

Pignanelli: I hope the pressures described above do not delay passage of this session’s most crucial legislation, SB103 and HB157 (sponsored by Sen. Gene Davis and Rep. Mike McKell, respectively), which allow Utahns participation in a wine subscription program from out of state vineyards. Life in Utah is great and could not get better — but this is would a wonderful benefit.

A surplus in the Uniform School Fund, combined with political environment, is the recipe for some tax relief. Because income tax is the most volatile of revenue sources, the fears of a recession may reduce the amount of the cut or creating a temporary adjustment, permanency dependent upon future conditions. The demands of Medicaid and basic state services are huge pressures on a general fund expanding at a lower rate. Thus, there will be some actions to increase the coffers of the general fund through the reduction of exemptions or other actions. The common feature of any such tax activity will be avoiding controversy.

Pignanelli: Cautious policymakers are incorporating how the sickness will impact the economy, especially the stock market. This is driving discussions as to future tax revenues and general economic considerations.

But the truly interesting conversations are happening in Capitol corridors as to whether the legislative session will end before any drastic measures are taken to prevent infection. Will legislators, staff and lobbyists be required to conduct business at a minimum of 6 feet from each other? How soon will face masks and tubs of hand gel become a mandatory accessory to parliamentary interactions?

Webb: Coronavirus right now is a bigger economic threat than a health threat. We’ve already seen that with the stock market plunge. In an interdependent national and world economy, Utah’s tax revenue won’t be immune from a global downturn. That’s why lawmakers should postpone cutting taxes and boost rainy day funds until we better know the full impact.

Does Utah need a new state flag?

Politics often proves the old adage, “The more things change the more they stay the same.” Lawmakers are deliberating some issues that have been around for years, decades and even over a century. As really old columnists we remember these things, although we weren’t quite around in the days of polygamy. It wouldn’t have worked for us anyway, as consideration of a No. 2 or 3 would certainly prompt the threat of death at the hands of No. 1.

A resolution was filed by Rep. Karen Kwan to endorse the proposed Equal Rights Amendment, or ERA, to the U.S. Constitution. This was a major controversy 50 years ago. Will and should this pass?

RELATED

As Utahns mark women’s vote, what of ERA?

Pignanelli: “The Equal Rights Amendment would turn holy wedlock into holy deadlock.” —William Rehnquist, 1970

Ahhh, the 1970s. Discotheques, bell-bottom jeans, oil embargoes, “M.A.S.H.” … and intense emotional arguments over the ERA. The contention caused huge demonstrations in the streets and in millions of American households. Dinosaurs like LaVarr and I remember well the controversy in Utah. Because of long-lasting memories for older Utahns, combined with the element that many under 50 do not know what an “ERA” is, the resolution may not be heard this session.

Although similar resolutions were passed recently in other states, the congressionally imposed deadline of 1982 for a state to adopt has long since passed, suggesting the current Utah proposal could be moot. Even Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg suggested the ERA process needs to start over.

Recent polling indicates over 60% of Utahns support an ERA provision in the U.S. Constitution. So, if Congress ever acts on the amendment Utahns will definitely participate in the conversation … and disco fever returns.

Webb: While mandating “equal rights” for all sounds like a no-brainer, youngsters won’t remember the monumental battles of the ’70s and the questions raised about the ERA. Like concerns about forcing males and females to be treated precisely the same despite physical differences. Or the reversal of progress in women’s sports if sports teams can’t be differentiated by sex. Or separate bathroom facilities. Or elimination of women preferences in hiring. Or women subject to military draft and combat. Or ramifications for alimony, child custody and abortion.

Perhaps common sense would prevail. But it would take a mountain of litigation to determine what the new constitutional provision actually means in everyday life.

Sen. Dan McCay is sponsoring legislation to repeal SB54 and give political parties the choice to disallow the signature gathering process for candidates. Why does this keep reappearing?

Pignanelli: The 2014 compromise legislation (the famous SB54) was based on an agreement legislators would not later repeal it, and signature gathering proponents would not attempt another initiative. McCay was instrumental in its passage.

Because an initiative was attempted for 2018, McCay is understandably bothered by the breach of faith. But, this may not be the year lawmakers want a return to this fight.

Webb: Many lawmakers who voted for the unpopular tax reform law are very glad they can collect signatures to get on the primary election ballot and not have to face the wrath of delegates in the caucus/convention system. Thus, McCay’s bill won’t go anywhere.

The redistricting process is soon upon us. Will lawmakers revise the redistricting commission law created via initiative process in 2018?

Pignanelli: Lefty national special interest groups infused their bizarre agenda into the initiative language. Apparently, there are deliberations between lawmakers and commission proponents to amend this mess.

Webb: Legislators have already been burned by messing with voter-initiated laws. But the Proposition 4 redistricting law does have a number of flaws and needs some work. Hopefully, negotiations can result in mutual agreement for needed amendments. Proposition 4 initiative supporters are getting a clear win with creation of a redistricting commission.

Sen. Deidre Henderson is sponsoring legislation to decriminalize polygamy, while maintaining stiff penalties for any criminal conduct associated with this lifestyle. Normally a taboo topic, the bill is flying through.

Pignanelli: Henderson deserves commendation for undertaking what many shied from. Her bill allows victims of polygamy to seek help without worries of criminal action.

Webb: In an era where most anything goes, it’s tough to prohibit consensual unorthodox marriage relationships. If a woman wants to marry a couple of guys, who’s to say it should be illegal? But any manner of domestic abuse, including child abuse, ought to be strictly prosecuted.

Reps. Stephen Handy and Keven Stratton have legislation to change our state flag. Is this needed?

Pignanelli: Our current flag is boring. Utahns deserve a flag commemorating our proud pioneer and religious heritage, while boasting of the natural beauty surrounding us. Some are demanding diversity, so I suggest including emblems of Diet Coke and wine. The discussions promise to be entertaining.

Webb: Some people have said that with tax reform dead, this legislative session is really boring. This legislation proves it.