Who is right on infrastructure, Mitt Romney or Mike Lee?

Utah’s senators are at odds over a $1.2 trillion package that passed the Senate this week. House Democrats hope to push a $3.5 trillion package.

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

All eyes in Washington this week were on the $1.2 trillion bipartisan Senate infrastructure legislation passed on Tuesday. It’s particularly interesting to us because Utah Republican Sens. Mike Lee and Mitt Romney have been very visible on this high-profile legislation — but on opposite sides. We explore the political intrigue.

The infrastructure bill, which now awaits action in the House, is a high priority for the Biden administration and Democrats, and for a lesser number of Republicans in Congress. Is it a good idea for the country on its merits and can it demonstrate some much-needed bipartisanship?

Pignanelli: “This is a major win to show that the institution of bipartisanship and that comity, that working together, can happen.”— Rahm Emanuel Senate Amendment 2137 to H.R. 3684, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, must pass ... for truly pathetic reasons. Americans need reaffirmation that Congress is not completely useless and can do something that impacts the entire nation in a bipartisan approach. Romney understands this and is willing to commit political capital and much effort to the noble cause of peeling off a few scabs of dysfunction at the Capitol.

Also, Romney and his gang of moderates know the opponents screaming from the sidelines need to lose for demonstration purposes. Former President Donald Trump and right-wing supporters are denouncing the bill as excessive (even though Trump proposed a higher price tag for his infrastructure proposal). Lefty progressives are threatening extortion of withholding support unless the additional $3.5 trillion package succeeds. Thus, full passage of the amended HR 3684 — independent of the other bill — provides comforting relief that adults are roaming the Capitol halls and intelligent politicking in the national interest is not dead.

Because he can ignore Trump, extremists from either side and just about everyone else, Romney is well placed to lead the bipartisan coalition. Admittedly, the threshold is low, but at least someone is elevating this sad process.

Webb: Infrastructure funding has been a top priority for both parties for many years. Trump pushed an even more expensive plan. The country certainly needs a big infrastructure upgrade, including in new areas like cybersecurity technology. Overall, I support the legislation, but have mixed feelings because these enormous funding bills always include a lot of extraneous pet projects and their funding formulas often favor and bail out profligate cities and states with no fiscal discipline.

Still, with Congress closely divided, a perfect bill was never going to be passed. Compromise means giving in on some things for the greater good. It was this bill or nothing. Romney and his GOP negotiators were able to keep the bill reasonably close to being a true infrastructure bill, although it does include many things I would not support.

Romney has said the bill will not raise taxes and will not increase the deficit. However, the Congressional Budget Office scored the legislation as raising the deficit by $256 billion over 10 years. That reality, along with Trump’s vocal opposition, galvanized conservative Republicans in their opposition. Not many House Republicans will vote for it.

Sen. Romney has been a leader and strong champion for the legislation. Sen. Lee has been a leading opponent. Is one wrong, or are they both partly right?

Pignanelli: Romney’s involvement was critical in developing a package with better allocation of resources while providing protection to GOP moderates. The former presidential candidate brought establishment support that is attracting Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and others.

However, even I can smell the nonsense in the bill from 2,000 miles away. It is loaded with the usual tricks and gimmicks both parties use repeatedly to shamefully claim a bill pays for itself. Lee is asking the uncomfortable, but needed, questions and placing important markers for the future. The honest evaluation is the bill increases the deficit yet validates bipartisanship and funds important infrastructure projects. The criticisms need to be remembered so when the next funding behemoth comes along, recriminations for outlandish promises can be utilized.

Webb: Clearly, Lee and Romney are both partly right, and they both make persuasive arguments. A key conservative claim is that passage of this bill will help Democrats pass their $3.5 trillion “human infrastructure” bill, which was written by Sen. Bernie Sanders and is laden with every item on the liberal social spending wish list — free stuff for everyone.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has linked the two bills, saying the House won’t pass the Senate infrastructure bill until the Senate also passes the $3.5 trillion legislation.

But Romney and others argue passing the Senate bill makes it less likely the $3.5 trillion bill will pass because Republicans and moderate Democratic senators, after just approving the $1.2 trillion, are going to recoil from boosting spending by another unfathomable $3.5 trillion. Even by Washington standards, these incredible spending levels are too much for many members of Congress.

Is this legislation good for Utah and needed to improve our infrastructure?

Pignanelli: Because of climate change, population growth and other factors, Utah must readjust its approach to natural resources — especially water and air. Federal support can help us achieve this.

Webb: Even though Utah isn’t always getting its proportionate share of the mind-boggling funding coming out of the federal government, it’s still an enormous amount of money. I’m confident Utah policymakers will use the money wisely on long-term, big-ticket infrastructure projects like water conservation and development and transportation projects.

What is the ‘Utah way,’ and can it survive?

Utah’s leaders have a history of working toward compromises on difficult issues. Will the state’s growing population make such solutions harder in the future?

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

Utah’s remarkable economy, civil political discourse and healthy lifestyle are increasingly noted by national and local media. Often, references are made to the “Utah Way” as the secret sauce for the state’s success. Your columnists, native Utahns with very different backgrounds, offer their perspectives.

What is the “Utah Way” and is it as pervasive as many claim?

Pignanelli: “Utah was founded by exiles from the United States…and its history still defines the state. So, it may seem a strange place for lessons for the rest of America”—The Economist

As an Italian Irish Catholic whose family has dwelled here more than a century, my experiences vary from the traditional Utahn. Yet, I possess a passionate conviction in “The Utah Way”.

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints excel in many ways — except for tooting their horns. I am happy to blow the instruments for them.

Utah’s success is a direct effect from the church and its members. The institution prioritizes education, family, community, patriotism, etc. Their legacy of enduring hardship, discrimination, and decades of abuse from government percolates deep in the society. The multiple tragedies did not produce victimization but rather a drive to achieve through hard work, tolerance, collaboration, and compassion.

There would be no Utah without the church. Our geographical area would have been the borderlands of Nevada and Colorado. The pioneers intentionally moved here with an intent to build a beacon of hope and faith. This “sense of purpose” still abides. Without full-time clergy, multitudes volunteer time to fulfill numerous important roles — an environment unparalleled on the planet.

These dynamics create a quality that permeates the thoughts and actions of members and nonmembers. I consistently observe this force in business, political and community activities. Many articulate the advantages of the Utah Way. As a heathen Gentile, I help explain its origins.

Webb: There’s no question that we have a more collaborative, less siloed, business and political culture than is the case in many other states. I’ve heard a number of key leaders who have come to Utah from elsewhere, really without much knowledge of the state, comment that Utah’s collaborative tradition is unique, refreshing and effective.

For example, Andrew Gruber is executive director of the Wasatch Front Regional Council and has emerged as a trusted and effective leader in transportation in Utah. We’re very lucky to have him and his family. Gruber came from the Chicago area a number of years ago where turf battles were unrelenting among cities, counties, public transit districts and the state transportation department. I’ve heard him comment how remarkable it is for all agencies and stakeholders, along with the Legislature and business community, to voluntarily work together to solve Utah’s short- and long-range transportation challenges.

Another example: The Salt Lake Chamber has unified the business community all across the state, and works with government and other institutions more effectively than almost any business organization in the country.

This sort of collaborative spirit is common across the spectrum of fields and disciplines in Utah. We see it in business, government and down at the neighborhood level.

Will party turmoil hurt Republicans in 2022?

Trump’s inability to let go of voter fraud claims may make it hard for Republicans to take advantage of Democratic mistakes.

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

Utah is obviously a Republican state. So when pundits and observers consistently talk about all the factions and schisms within the GOP, questions arise about the impact on our state politics. We join in the fun.

Major media outlets are documenting potential splinters among Republicans on issues like allegiance to Donald Trump, vaccinations, and even climate change. Is Utah experiencing such tremors?

Pignanelli: “Republicans refused to push vaccines and tick off a significant portion of our base. But, with cases increasing, that calculus changed because guess who’s getting sick? Republicans” — Glen Bolger, GOP Pollster

Adult chaperones on high school field trips ooze calm while inwardly anxious at the potential of chaos. High-profile Utah Republicans exude similar patience while secretly anguishing while their national peers create havoc in the political arena.

President Joseph Biden suffered a recent hit in approval ratings — attributed to his failed goal of 70% vaccinations by July 4. Americans want results in resolving the pandemic. Thus, if the refusal by many to obtain a vaccination creates economic and societal problems, those perceived as responsible will suffer recriminations. GOP operatives understand this and are openly diminishing partisanship of the issue. Utah leaders have inoculated themselves through responsible direct messaging of support for the “jab”.

Announcing fealty to the former president may secure a dedicated base, but it does alienate moderate Republicans and chunks of independents. Cautious candidates proclaim “Trumpish” qualities without referencing the man.

The Trump debate is causing small cracks in Utah’s GOP. Sen. Mike Lee faces several interparty opponents. Mitt Romney is not the favorite among some conservative factions. Local officials are subjected to inquisitions on the matter.

Equally compelling is that affluent Republicans are gathering in small groups to discuss ways to prevent any further drift of the party towards the Trumpistas. This indicates a low boil of turmoil.

Local political chaperones hope for peaceful field trips through 2022.

Webb: Divisions have always existed between arch-conservatives and moderate Republicans in Utah. We’ve seen it manifest on issues like SB54/Count My Vote. But Utah is so heavily Republican and conservative that the schisms have seldom led to losses to Democrats. If Utah was a closely-divided swing state, the rifts would matter more.

Democrats and the Biden administration are trying to blame Republicans for lower-than-expected vaccination rates. But one big Democratic demographic group suffering from low vaccination rates is lower-income, inner-city, communities of color. That’s the fault of Democratic leaders for failing in their outreach and education efforts.

Meanwhile, responsible Republicans ought to encourage vaccinations and not let resentment toward shutdowns, mask mandates, vaccine passports, mixed messaging, etc., become a deterrent.

The vaccine works. Everyone should get it except those with prohibiting health conditions.

The Trump factor, more particularly his insistence that the election was stolen, is definitely dividing the GOP. The party would be reasonably united and poised for congressional gains in 2022 were it not for Trump wanting the election to be about one thing – himself.

Trump’s 2020 election obsession is getting really old . . . starting to smell like a dead fish. Democrats are giving Republicans plenty of great stuff with which to defeat them (border chaos, surging crime, inflation, COVID-19 resurgence, deficits, the nanny state, identity and grievance politics, and so forth). But Trump and his ego might ensure the Republicans snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

The sad thing is, Trump could be a unifying force in the party, leading the charge on Democratic leadership failings. Instead, his focus is all on himself. It’s an incredible act of selfishness.

Do any of these issues offer potential for primary upsets and even surprises in general elections next year?

Pignanelli: The 2010 midterm elections during the last Democrat president administration, offer indirect guidance. Then, tea party conservatives rejected moderate Republicans and captured many Democratic seats. The frustration of 12 years ago may be exhibited in 2022 in unusual ways and transform the GOP in unexpected directions. If the vaccination tug-of-war intensifies, Trump remains a factor, and fear abounds from the economy and climate, the unpredictability will be greater than 2020.

Webb: Nationally, the Democrats are vastly overreaching with their multi-trillion-dollar spending proposals and cultural crusades to remake society. Were it not for the Trump distraction and the likelihood that Senate Republicans will save the Democrats from themselves by blocking the most outrageous stuff, 2022 could be a realigning election — worse than 2010 for the Democrats.

Will Utah Democrats face similar pressures this year and next from fringe activities?

Pignanelli: As with the right wing, left wing adherents care more for purity than for electoral success. Such dynamics in the past have fostered skirmishes between pragmatic special interest groups and lefty advocacy organizations. The turbulent environment suggests Democrats will encounter inner turmoil.

Webb: National Democrats are trying to enact the most liberal, big-government agenda in my lifetime. Utah Democrats (at least outside of Salt Lake City) should run, not walk, from this manifesto.

Best of State Awards Gala

Renae Cowley and Frank Pignanelli attended the Best of State Awards Gala to accept the Best of State Award for Foxley and Pignanelli. Renae also was a presenter for the Best of State Award in Sports. Both had a wonderful time, and thank the Best of State selection Committee for the honor.

The Pioneer Day floats we’d like to see

These would make for a more animated parade

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

This week is the 174th anniversary of the pioneers entering the Salt Lake Valley. After a year’s hiatus due to the pandemic, the Days of ’47 Parade is returning. Politicians and interest groups love to participate in this highly visible event for obvious reasons. Most of them smile and wave from shiny vehicles.

In a fit of civic engagement, your columnists volunteered modest ideas for more substantive “theme” floats to these politicians and interest groups. But our suggestions were inexplicably rejected by all of them. (Apparently, our officials have good taste.) Here’s a sampling of floats for a more fun and animated parade:

Gov. Spencer Cox: A large flatbed farm trailer holding many Utahns, representing a variety of religious denominations. Cox is leading the crowds in prayer for more rain, less heat and better attitudes toward vaccinations. The overhead banner reads, “Prayer — It’s easy, free, and do you have a better idea?”

Sen. Mike Lee: An oversized baby crib mobile rotating various figures and images that Lee uses in describing friends, foes and legislation. Like a Captain Moroni/Donald Trump, a gun-toting Ronald Reagan riding a velociraptor, and Satan burning in hell while writing the Democrats’ voting reform legislation.

Anti-vaccination protesters: A giant grim reaper under the banner “Science, Schmience, who wants a sore arm anyway?”

The new redistricting commission: This hardworking group of appointed volunteers will be walking behind a banner saying, “What we suggest for district boundaries does matter. It really does. We promise it does.”

Sen. Mitt Romney: He will be standing on a Red Sea float, dressed as Moses, arms raised, leading members of Congress from the plagues of political bickering and bombastic rhetoric, through the parted waters of bipartisanship and on into the promised land.

Congressman Blake Moore: Dressed as superhero Captain Consistency with the poster, “I’m moderate and I voted how I promised.”

Congressman John Curtis: He would be atop a float pulling a giant ostrich head out of the sand under the banner, “Climate Change, is there any question after the last 60 days?”

Congressman Burgess Owens: Standing alongside a Britney Spears impersonator under the banner, “Release Britney — because I’m sure we all care.”

Congressman Chris Stewart: He would be dressed as a pioneer leading seagulls to eat the rampaging crickets — labeled as Marxists and socialists.

Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson: Riding in a car, but throwing masks instead of candy to the crowds, with the side banner, “You know they’re coming back!”

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall: Atop a huge float decorated as a bar, featuring protesters, bicyclists, vegans and tree-huggers under the banner, “Salt Lake City — you hate our politics but you love to party here”.

Utah Jazz players: They would be waving from a Conestoga prairie schooner wagon with a side banner: “Just reminding everyone of the heartbreak and disappointment endured by pioneers. We just wanted to provide a taste. You’re welcome.”

National Republican Party: A large, spartan float would hold a ghostly apparition and a large sign saying, “Inflation … It’s back … Thank you, Democrats.”

National Democratic Party: A large float would hold an impersonation of President Joe Biden with the banner, “Courtesy, compassion and adulthood in the White House.”

Bears Ears National Monument supporters and opponents: They walk together carrying a banner, “Thanks, Utah, for the issue that increases membership dues and contributions to our activist groups.”

Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson: Surrounded by staff carrying a banner, “Maintaining the legacy — defending Utahns against nonexistent voter fraud.”

Senate President Stuart Adams and House Speaker Brad Wilson leading a pack of legislators: Atop the float is a huge dollar sign with a banner: “We have billions to spend in one-time money, and don’t know what to do with it all. Any ideas?”

Attorney General Sean Reyes: Just carrying a large sign proclaiming, “Bringing the left and right together — to sue big tech.”

Utah Democrats: Marching behind a banner, “Relevant Once Again … at Least in D.C.”

Utah Republicans: Marching behind a banner, “Fighting for You. Fighting With Each Other.”

Downtown panhandlers: Holding signs saying: “We appreciate the new resource centers, but please don’t trample on our tent cities as you watch the parade.”

Is it time to use ranked choice voting in Utah?

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

The recent New York City mayoral primary election received national attention not just because a moderate Democrat won, but because Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) was used. Many Utah cities will be utilizing RCV later this year.

In RCV, voters rank candidates on their ballots (i.e. first choice, second choice, etc.). If a candidate wins a majority of first-place votes, he or she wins the race. If not, the last-place candidate is eliminated and that person’s second-choice votes are allocated to those still in the race. The process continues until a candidate has a majority. Will RCV help Utah elections?

Pignanelli: ”Ranked-choice may be cost-efficient. But without a course in advanced calculus, let’s drop this rank nonsense.” — Dave Newhouse, Oakland Mercury News The current hostile environment requires the following admonition: elected and appointed officials willing to assume risk and attempt innovation, notwithstanding success or failures, deserve commendation and respect. The always astute Rep. Jeff Stenquist, sponsor of the legislation authorizing ranked choice voting, wisely stated, “I didn’t run the (RCV) bill because I’m convinced it’s a better way. I just want the ability for cities to give it a try,”

Ranked choice voting is intriguing, complicated, and very controversial. Despite perceptions of a recent novelty, the process was utilized — then abandoned — in various Western states a century ago. Supporters claim it saves taxpayers’ dollars by eliminating primary elections, increases opportunities for moderate candidates, decreases negative campaign tactics and guarantees the winner has a majority. Opponents claim its complexity leads to errors while disenfranchising minority voters. This complaint includes every vote is not equal, which lowers general confidence.

Plenty of opinions and several studies exist for supporters and opponents to use, but nothing from Utah. Thus, another admonition is our brave leaders research RCV extensively to determine advantages and problems for our state.

Webb: I’m not opposed to ranked choice voting, also called “instant-runoff voting.” In theory, at least, it’s a superior way to conduct elections. But I’m not ready to endorse the new system for major races. Utah is smart to experiment with ranked choice voting in smaller non-partisan municipal races. We’ll see how it works, allow voters to get used to it, and decide if it makes sense for other races.

Clearly, ranked choice voting could save a little money. In non-partisan races, it could eliminate the need for primary elections. In theory (again), it could lead to more mainstream representation with less negative campaigning and fewer attack ads. That’s because (in theory) candidates will try to avoid alienating supporters of other candidates, hoping to win their 2nd or 3rd-place votes.

All that is good, but be wary of the downsides. First, ranked choice voting can be confusing until voters get used to it. Expect initial elections to be somewhat chaotic. Also, results take longer to tabulate. Winners might not be known for several days.

Finally, expect a lot of complaints if the first-round winner ends up losing. For example, current Gov. Spencer Cox won only a little over 36 percent of the vote in the 2020 gubernatorial primary, with former Gov. Jon Huntsman close behind at 34.95 percent. Had RCV been employed in 2020, it’s entirely possible Huntsman could have overtaken Cox in the second or third rounds if enough supporters of Greg Hughes and Thomas Wright supported Huntsman as their second or third choice.

At the presidential level, imagine the high drama and extreme controversy if the first round winner ended up losing. Ranked choice voting opponents make a simple argument: First choice votes should determine elections, not second or third choices.

As we celebrate our nation’s founding, how’s America doing?

Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

Happy Independence Day weekend. Sunday is the 245th anniversary of the founding of our beloved republic. But these are not easy times for the good ol’ USA. Your curmudgeonly columnists, who are almost as old as the nation, offer a perspective based on experience, practical insight and our usual blather.

Political leaders, special interest groups, and the media on both sides of the political spectrum are claiming, in high pitched tones, that our democratic republic is in jeopardy. Is this true? Why so much gloom?

Pignanelli: “America was a massive improvement over what came before it. The Founders eliminated inherited nobility and enshrined freedoms of religion, speech, and assembly. The Founding was the most radical political—and epistemological—leap forward in history.”— Jonah Goldberg .

Teenagers excel in emotional tirades predicting impending doom when denied their outrageous demands. Usually disconnected from reality, they refuse to acknowledge parents’ prior experience. Like entitled adolescents, left- and right-wing extremists claiming a dystopian future for our country disregard reason or precedence.

Millions are engaged in feverish debates on TV, the internet, periodicals and in their homes. Most discourses are hostile to officials wielding power. The typical response from Americans is either a yawn or an even louder rejoinder. Yet, in many countries such vigor of argument is rewarded with jail time, or worse.

Since 1776, Americans have been at each other’s throats (sometimes literally) disputing the direction of the country. Granted, cable television and internet activities ramped up the current rhetoric, but a quarter-millennium of continuous contention is undeniable. Argument is our sinew. The unpleasantness, and beauty, of democracy is having to listen to someone else’s opinion.

Americans are enduring great changes to their lifestyles, employment, health, and security. We are redefining how we communicate about race, sexuality, faith, environment, priorities of life. No wonder many are a little cranky.

The best advice to raising teenagers is acceptance and appreciation for their enthusiasm. Similarly, sound minds value the passions raging as evidence our country is not in jeopardy — but rather strong and dynamic.

Webb: I know it’s not chic, among many elitists, to be patriotic these days. But I’m an old, white, male, religious Republican – about as un-chic and old-fashioned as anyone can be. So just write me off as an eccentric and obsolete relic of the past.

That status gives me plenty of cover to be patriotic, to love America, to believe that the United States is exceptional — the greatest country in the world — with a destiny and purpose in the sweep of history.

I believe that in many ways we’ve made remarkable progress as a country, especially with regard to civil rights, opportunity for all, and the environment. The fact that these words — diversity, equity, inclusion and sustainability — are now part of nearly every corporate annual report and every discussion among leaders in government, education and business, shows how far we’ve come. We are wealthy and mature enough to focus on higher level goals like justice and equality, not just where our next meal is coming from.

But I don’t believe America is a systemically racist country or that some people (like me) are inherently racist because of the color of their skin.

And I believe that the greatest threats to America’s future come from an abiding belief among many in academia, government and even big corporations that regulation and government programs requiring mind-boggling deficit spending are the best ways to achieve a better life for all citizens.

This faith in big government, while ignoring the “root causes” (to use VP Kamala Harris’ phrase about reducing illegal immigration) of societal and family dysfunction, is our country’s gravest danger.

But, overall, considering that we just came through a devastating pandemic, things are pretty good in America this July 4 weekend.

Most Americans are moderate in tone and centrist in thought. Yet, they are feeling the brunt of all the acrimony and bitterness. Will it ever end?

Pignanelli: Left- and right-wing fringes are fabricating outrageous nonsensical claims. Yet, few in the respective parties are attempting to apply adult supervision.

History is replete with instances of extremes swinging back and forth when civilization is immersed in great upheavals. (i.e. The Enlightenment, French revolution, McCarthyism, the 1960s, etc.) In 2021, societal and political norms are undergoing radical readjustment, with similar oscillations. A simple reading of history reveals a more tranquil atmosphere is the eventual result.

Webb: It’s discouraging for average citizens to be overwhelmed by wall-to-wall news and social media coverage featuring accusations from the left that Americans are systemically racist and are destroying the planet via climate change, while far-right voices decry America as a decadent society moving rapidly toward destructive socialism.

The reality is in between. Enjoy this patriotic weekend by turning off social media, cable news and radio talk shows.

Is the State of Utah spared from the consternation happening on a national level or is it just under the radar?

Pignanelli: Percolating emotions do exist. They are usually mediated pursuant to the “Utah Way” — subdued, respectful and with a practical solution efficiently applied.

Webb: Go to a small-town parade and patriotic celebration in Utah and enjoy a family picnic. That’s the real Utah and real America.

As we celebrate our nation’s founding, how’s America doing?

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

Happy Independence Day weekend. Sunday is the 245th anniversary of the founding of our beloved republic. But these are not easy times for the good ol’ USA. Your curmudgeonly columnists, who are almost as old as the nation, offer a perspective based on experience, practical insight and our usual blather.

Political leaders, special interest groups, and the media on both sides of the political spectrum are claiming, in high pitched tones, that our democratic republic is in jeopardy. Is this true? Why so much gloom?

Pignanelli: “America was a massive improvement over what came before it. The Founders eliminated inherited nobility and enshrined freedoms of religion, speech, and assembly. The Founding was the most radical political—and epistemological—leap forward in history.”— Jonah Goldberg .

Teenagers excel in emotional tirades predicting impending doom when denied their outrageous demands. Usually disconnected from reality, they refuse to acknowledge parents’ prior experience. Like entitled adolescents, left- and right-wing extremists claiming a dystopian future for our country disregard reason or precedence.

Millions are engaged in feverish debates on TV, the internet, periodicals and in their homes. Most discourses are hostile to officials wielding power. The typical response from Americans is either a yawn or an even louder rejoinder. Yet, in many countries such vigor of argument is rewarded with jail time, or worse.

Since 1776, Americans have been at each other’s throats (sometimes literally) disputing the direction of the country. Granted, cable television and internet activities ramped up the current rhetoric, but a quarter-millennium of continuous contention is undeniable. Argument is our sinew. The unpleasantness, and beauty, of democracy is having to listen to someone else’s opinion.

Americans are enduring great changes to their lifestyles, employment, health, and security. We are redefining how we communicate about race, sexuality, faith, environment, priorities of life. No wonder many are a little cranky.

The best advice to raising teenagers is acceptance and appreciation for their enthusiasm. Similarly, sound minds value the passions raging as evidence our country is not in jeopardy — but rather strong and dynamic.

Webb: I know it’s not chic, among many elitists, to be patriotic these days. But I’m an old, white, male, religious Republican – about as un-chic and old-fashioned as anyone can be. So just write me off as an eccentric and obsolete relic of the past.

That status gives me plenty of cover to be patriotic, to love America, to believe that the United States is exceptional — the greatest country in the world — with a destiny and purpose in the sweep of history.

I believe that in many ways we’ve made remarkable progress as a country, especially with regard to civil rights, opportunity for all, and the environment. The fact that these words — diversity, equity, inclusion and sustainability — are now part of nearly every corporate annual report and every discussion among leaders in government, education and business, shows how far we’ve come. We are wealthy and mature enough to focus on higher level goals like justice and equality, not just where our next meal is coming from.

But I don’t believe America is a systemically racist country or that some people (like me) are inherently racist because of the color of their skin.

And I believe that the greatest threats to America’s future come from an abiding belief among many in academia, government and even big corporations that regulation and government programs requiring mind-boggling deficit spending are the best ways to achieve a better life for all citizens.

This faith in big government, while ignoring the “root causes” (to use VP Kamala Harris’ phrase about reducing illegal immigration) of societal and family dysfunction, is our country’s gravest danger.

But, overall, considering that we just came through a devastating pandemic, things are pretty good in America this July 4 weekend.

Most Americans are moderate in tone and centrist in thought. Yet, they are feeling the brunt of all the acrimony and bitterness. Will it ever end?

Pignanelli: Left- and right-wing fringes are fabricating outrageous nonsensical claims. Yet, few in the respective parties are attempting to apply adult supervision.

History is replete with instances of extremes swinging back and forth when civilization is immersed in great upheavals. (i.e. The Enlightenment, French revolution, McCarthyism, the 1960s, etc.) In 2021, societal and political norms are undergoing radical readjustment, with similar oscillations. A simple reading of history reveals a more tranquil atmosphere is the eventual result.

Webb: It’s discouraging for average citizens to be overwhelmed by wall-to-wall news and social media coverage featuring accusations from the left that Americans are systemically racist and are destroying the planet via climate change, while far-right voices decry America as a decadent society moving rapidly toward destructive socialism.

The reality is in between. Enjoy this patriotic weekend by turning off social media, cable news and radio talk shows.

Is the State of Utah spared from the consternation happening on a national level or is it just under the radar?

Pignanelli: Percolating emotions do exist. They are usually mediated pursuant to the “Utah Way” — subdued, respectful and with a practical solution efficiently applied.

Webb: Go to a small-town parade and patriotic celebration in Utah and enjoy a family picnic. That’s the real Utah and real America.