NEWS & EVENTS
Is democracy in trouble in the U.S.? How about in Utah?
Extremists on the right and left are claiming the governor and Legislature are dictatorial and authoritarian. But these antagonists perform without retribution and demonstrate that democracy is vibrant in the Beehive State
By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb
Media outlets, think tanks and special interest groups are bombarding Americans with polling questions regarding their political preferences and feelings about the country. These surveys show a high level of concern about the nation’s direction. Since your columnists have a lot of experience with these things (we’re almost as old as the republic), we offer our insights.
A recent NBC news poll revealed that 76% of Democrats, Republicans and independents believe “there is a threat to democracy and majority rule in this country.” Are these fears justified?
Pignanelli: “The thing about democracy is that it is not neat, orderly, or quiet. It requires a certain relish for confusion.” — Molly Ivins
Our nation is amid a constitutional, economic and societal turmoil. But we have endured some tumult … every year … for centuries. Considering religious Puritans escaping persecution, indigenous people overwhelmed, immigrants fleeing poverty or victims of the slave trade, our nation was built on turbulence. Thankfully, the Constitution bequeathed to us continues to harness this energy into an entrepreneurial, innovative drive for freedom.
When political, business and community leaders continually express concern over the demagogic attacks on the government, it is no wonder citizens tell pollsters they are nervous about our constitutional structure. Yet, voters turned out in record numbers in 2020 and 2021.
This signifies a deep solid faith in the system. When one objectively views the panorama of current events, the resulting scene is 330 million Americans engaged in a massive debate on multiple issues. We are adapting to technological, environmental and demographic change. Such observations of passionate discourse reveal an actual beauty to what is happening — democracy in action.
We struggled through tough times before and prevailed. An understanding of history, combined with gratitude toward the founders, emphasizes democracy is messy and frustrating but well worth the effort.
Webb: I don’t believe our democratic republic is in imminent danger. However, I do believe rabble-rousers exist on both sides of the political spectrum who would do serious damage to our civic institutions if they got their way. But they’re not going to prevail.
Donald Trump’s refusal to accept the presidential election outcome and his continued demands that the election be overturned are a threat to the country. Especially disturbing is his recruitment of his millions of ardent supporters to follow him down this destructive path. His disparagement of anyone who disagrees with him — even his former Vice President Mike Pence, who loyally served him — is disgusting.
But Trump is not going to overturn the election. We have plenty of sensible and courageous leaders in this country of all political persuasions who will prevent anything crazy from happening. By going so far into the looney bin regarding the 2020 election, Trump has alienated sensible conservatives and destroyed his chance to run and win in 2024. He can still be a spoiler, however.
It’s important to note that left-wing politicians and elitist interest groups are just as dangerous as Trump. They would remake our political institutions by federalizing elections and turning America into a welfare state that is soft on crime and has no borders. They would trample over reasonable, rational heartland citizens who make America the great country it is. They won’t prevail either.
Our democratic republic remains a center-right nation with prudent, common-sense citizens who won’t allow rabble-rousers on either extreme to control the country.
What has led to this dismal state of national angst — the Jan. 6 riots at the U.S. Capitol, the congressional committee investigating it, Trump asserting the 2020 election was stolen, left-wing disparagement of unwoke behavior?
Pignanelli: History documents that new versions of media always propel significant changes in society (i.e. printing press, street cafés, telegraph, newspapers, radio, television, internet). Social media provides unparalleled opportunities for people to engage, learn, grow and improve themselves. But is also expands the cesspool of strange and dangerous thoughts.
I refuse to concede a bunch of weirdos endangered our republic by invading the Capitol on Jan. 6. The potential threat was from those attempting to commit fraud on the country through manipulating the Electoral College system. But our Constitution, and many good people from all political perspectives, firmly prevented them, proving once again America works.
Webb: The fringe people are certainly a problem. But a majority of citizens simply don’t like the way the liberal Democrats who control Washington, D.C., are running the country. Unfortunately for Republicans, things are so broken at the federal level that they won’t be able to do much better when they retake power.
Is democracy in Utah threatened?
Pignanelli: Extremists on the right and left are claiming the governor and Legislature are dictatorial and authoritarian. They scream and shout while watching and participating in the proceedings of those they dislike so much. These antagonists perform without retribution and demonstrate that democracy is vibrant in the Beehive State.
Webb: Utah is the most sensible of states. Yes, we have our extremists, but most Utahns are mainstream citizens who vote for good leaders and good policies.
Opinion: How on earth did masks become so political?
Although the recent mandate was issued in just two counties, it started a firestorm across the entire state. Part-time legislators are in frequent contact with their constituents, and they heard from them
By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb
At the beginning of the legislative session, lawmakers from both parties and houses outlined ambitious agendas regarding traditional issues of education, natural resources, transportation, etc. However, pandemic politics dominated attention and interaction with constituents in the early days. This dynamic illuminates features of modern politics. Thus, we provide our insights.
On the first day of the session, and without the usually required committee hearings, the Senate passed a resolution terminating the mask mandate implemented by Salt Lake County. The House followed suit a few days later. Why did the Legislature weigh in so quickly on this controversial matter?
Pignanelli: “Putting a piece of cloth on your face has become a culture war.”— Stephen Colbert.
I possess a good barometer of the intensity of a political storm — the number of friends and acquaintances yelling at me. By my standards, the mask controversy breaks boundaries. I encountered individuals howling at me in restaurants, during jogging and while I was in a “state of nature” in a post-workout shower at the gym.
Every person, regardless of demographics, is impacted by this matter. Thus, a mask has evolved from a medical accessory into a symbol of something much larger, (i.e. loss of freedom, trusting science, etc.). Neither side is persuading the other.
Although the recent mandate was issued in just two counties, it started a firestorm across the entire state. Part-time legislators are in frequent contact with their constituents, and they heard from them. Utahns upset with mask demands, or just tired of pandemic restrictions, outnumbered those supporting the government edict. The pressure was intense, compelling lawmakers to circumvent the usual committee process. Election year dynamics further complicated actions.
The pandemic will end soon. But the mask dispute highlighted the raw feelings on both sides, providing critical insight to future generations. Hopefully, no more showers are interrupted.
Webb: As I’ve written previously, I don’t support mask mandates. In many situations, masks should be worn, but it should be voluntary. But, as a conservative, I believe the best government is government closest to the people. I believe it was a mistake for the Legislature to override the mask decisions of locally elected officials. Let those local leaders answer to their own constituents.
This is a highly charged, divisive, emotional issue. By taking this action, lawmakers have elevated the issue up to the state level, subjecting themselves to the anger and vitriol.
There may, at times, be compelling reasons for the federal government to usurp state prerogatives. There may, at times, be compelling reasons for state government to usurp local prerogatives. But I don’t think requiring masks in public places rose to the level of something that demanded termination.
The “test to stay” program developed by the Legislature last year may be substituted with a statutory requirement that a school could only revert to remote learning if state leaders concurred. Why the dramatic change to this program?
Pignanelli: “Test to stay” was a good attempt to balance all concerns but based on older versions of the coronavirus. But, omicron overwhelmed the system, irritating parents and school officials. There is, as of yet, no substitute for the testing regime and remote learning is deeply problematic, so state leaders will drive the decision.
Webb: The capricious COVID-19, and its variants, have simply created a mess for schools and parents. Schools are struggling mightily and no easy solutions exist. Certainly, children need to be in school, but high omicron infection rates are wreaking havoc on the best-laid plans and policies. Teachers and substitutes are in short supply, and questions abound: Who should be in school? Who should be tested and when? How soon can infected students and teachers return? When should schools flip to on-line learning, and so forth.
I believe these decisions, to the extent possible, are best left to local school leaders and local school boards. Adding another level of bureaucracy at the state level will add to confusion and slow down what sometimes needs to be quick action.
The pandemic has produced massive amounts of federal funds and, combined with a hot Utah economy, has generated large budget surpluses. This is escalating talks regarding a tax cut. What is the likely result?
Pignanelli: As illustrated in speeches by Gov. Spencer Cox and lawmakers, there is a tug-of-war between them for an income tax cut or grocery sales tax credit. But these deliberations include important considerations by lawmakers as to the reality of the ongoing surpluses beyond 2022. So the amount of reductions will reflect the confidence by officials as to the short-term future of the economy. Many weeks to go before all the details are decided.
Webb: Republican lawmakers seem intent on cutting income taxes, which fund education. Democratic lawmakers want the sales tax on food eliminated. A better plan is Gov. Cox’s proposal for a food tax credit for low-income people. It makes no sense to narrow the tax base by cutting the food tax for wealthy people and tourists.
Right now we, as Utahns, enjoy historically low taxes. The economy may be booming, but great fears exist that it’s a “sugar high.” We’re seeing that the world is very a perilous place and factors (like inflation) are looming that could dampen the economy. Now is no time for a big income tax cut.
The important legislative document you probably haven’t heard about
Usually, lawmakers announce proposals and plans as the session progresses. This document upends this tradition by courageously establishing accountabilities at the beginning.
By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb
The Utah Legislature is one week into the 2022 session. Usual deliberations regarding the budget and taxation commenced immediately, along with laws regarding the pandemic. However, prior to lawmakers convening, an unprecedented and important document was released — the House Majority Caucus revealed its “Policy Pillars.” We review potential long-term impact of these stated legislative priorities.
The Policy Pillars contained in a House leadership press release outlined some expected priorities, such as water conservation, education innovation, sustainable growth, etc. But the accompanying document, “The Utah Way Forward,” is an impressive, glossy, explanation of how these leaders intend to achieve their vision. (Available at: https://house.utah.gov/2022majoritypolicypillars/) Will this fairly detailed, substantive approach to solving the state’s challenges improve legislators’ focus and produce better results?
Pignanelli: “To give a direction and a specific sanction to the general sense of the community is the true end of legislature.” — Edmund Burke
“Geezers” and “fogeys” are less kind descriptions of the many decades of experience LaVarr and I claim with legislative activities. Since this is not our “first rodeo” we can verify the House Pillars instrument is beyond novelty — it is noteworthy.
The document is important for what it articulates … and for what it ignores. A nonpartisan theme runs throughout the text describing issues and painting broad solutions. The first section focuses on water conservation and the Great Salt Lake. There are omissions (i.e. reform in higher education), yet the breadth and scope is impressive. Hot social issues are not mentioned.
Usually, lawmakers announce proposals and plans as the session progresses. Pillars upends this tradition by courageously establishing accountabilities at the beginning. The authors invite citizens to comment, thereby further enhancing Utah’s strong participatory legislative process.
Thankfully, the Pillars proposal is valuable in demonstrating old dogs (like LaVarr and me) can learn new tricks.
Webb: It is difficult for part-time state legislators to provide a forward-looking policy vision on the top issues facing the state. It is usually the governor, with his senior staff, cabinet and thousands of state employees, who takes the lead in setting the state’s policy agenda. And Gov. Spencer Cox has done a good job outlining a vision for the state.
State legislatures usually focus on current crises and day-to-day issues, rather than demonstrate farsightedness and long-term planning for future generations. They are by nature more reactionary than visionary due to the part-time nature of their jobs and the many immediate problems facing the state. They collectively enjoy the spotlight for 45 days, but the governor dominates the rest of the year.
But the House Majority Caucus Policy Pillars document shows that House leaders are attempting to be more influential in setting the state’s agenda, rather than allowing the governor to take primacy in the “vision stuff.”
The Policy Pillars and supportive material clearly, succinctly and pragmatically outline top issues facing the state and the House GOP commitment to focus on and resolve them. In this agenda, the House Majority mostly avoids cultural wars and hot-button, divisive, partisan “message” issues. That’s actually quite remarkable.
If this strategy is pursued and maintained, will House and Senate lawmakers change the dynamics of political interaction with the governor, state agencies, the business community and citizens?
Pignanelli: Although generated by the House, Pillars covers issues that have been the center of activity for many senators, as well. Their united action will reaffirm the Legislature remains more than a responsive entity, but a group that can solidify behind common vision.
In December, Cox pronounced a well-crafted and equally ambitious set of objectives. But Pillars sends a signal to the executive branch and agencies that lawmakers expect a greater role in developing state government solutions to challenges. Business and community activists will respond accordingly.
Webb: Certainly, lawmakers are taking a more proactive role. But the governor, with his “bully pulpit” and legion of experts and leaders, has a larger say, especially because the executive branch carries out legislative policy and writes the detailed rules and regulations accompanying new statutes.
What would be even more powerful than the House Majority manifesto would be a joint House/Senate/Governor vision document outlining mutual policy priorities, and a path forward for the long term. However, there is too much natural tension and distrust among the branches of government and bodies of the Legislature for that to occur. And it’s good to have some competition among these groups.
Why do so few Utahns know of these policy statements, and will that change?
Pignanelli: For decades, Utah has been honored by multiple awards for excellent management and efficiency. Governors and department heads have eagerly, and appropriately, collected these trophies. Yet, none of these recognitions would have occurred without all the pesky demands by lawmakers for efficiency and accountability.
Utah is an incredible place to live and work directly because of the unheralded, tireless work by hundreds of lawmakers for many years. Hopefully Pillars will correct this unfairness.
Webb: The Legislature is becoming more sophisticated with communications, but still lags. It’s far more difficult for 104 independently elected lawmakers to collaborate on communications than it is for the one-person governor, who commands immense resources, to effectively communicate. If every House Republican amplified the Policy Pillars document through their newsletters and social media channels, they could have a real impact.
What to expect as the Utah Legislature holds yet another pandemic regular session
COVID-19, from government restrictions to spending federal relief dollars, will be front and center, as will be a large surplus
By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb
Hold onto your wallets and avert the children’s eyes. The 2022 general session of the Utah State Legislature convenes on Tuesday. Once again, it will occur amid a raging pandemic. We explore both of these important events and how they may affect each other.
State and local officials are receiving pressure to impose vaccine mandates, school closures and mask requirements to slow the omicron variant infection rate. How will the Legislature respond, and will the virus impact legislative deliberations?
Pignanelli: “Remote learning has been a disaster for America’s kids. We must acknowledge that, and do everything to minimize any further remote learning.” — Dr. Ashish K. Jha, Dean, Brown University School of Public Health.
The weird repeat of a legislative session during a viral pandemic is best explained by the astute observation of that great Italian philosopher Yogi Berra — “It’s déjà vu all over again”. As with last year, the Legislature will be open for business while providing excellent accommodations for lawmakers and citizens to participate remotely. Also, expenditures of pandemic relief federal dollars will be another continuing element.
But a year makes all the difference — which will be highlighted during the session. Public education will enjoy increased funding, but not without intense discussion, and potential legislation, regarding school closures. The results of this year’s gubernatorial elections in Virginia and New Jersey, along with protests at school board meetings throughout the nation, demonstrate that Americans and Utahns across the political spectrum want children at school, not at home. These emotions will be reflected during the session.
The U.S. Supreme Court is likely to rule on the federal mandates for employee vaccinations. The results will generate potential tweaks to the laws passed in special session last year.
The pandemic and legislative session share another element, a common desire for conclusion. Yet, as again best described by Hall of Famer Berra, “It’s not over until it’s over”.
Webb: We’re fighting a new battle with the onset of the omicron variant. And federal, state and local governments were not prepared for it. It’s clear now that we can’t totally eliminate COVID-19. So we must learn how to live with it and minimize its impacts — while keeping schools and businesses open and avoiding onerous mandates.
Lawmakers ought to be focused on dramatically ramping up testing, therapeutics that fight the symptoms and prevent serious illness, and bolstering the health care system so it can handle more infections and more patients. It’s clear we need more doctors, more nurses, more hospital beds. It’s a matter of supply and demand. We need more supply to meet demand.
I recognize we can’t boost the capacity of our health care system by 20% overnight. But if COVID-19 is here to stay, we need another Operation Warp Speed to get moving. That ought to be a focus of the Legislature and Governor’s Office.
What will be other major issues addressed in this legislative session?
Pignanelli: In addition to the plethora of federal dollars, state revenues are at a major surplus. But legislative leaders are articulating a deep concern the extra receipts may not be available in the near future because the economy could constrict from its current sugar high. This analysis will dominate the appropriations process, as ongoing spending commitments are limited. Such wise scrutiny explains why our state is so well-managed.
The mild winter and hot summer of 2021 undeniably illustrated that future growth and water needs must be confronted. To the credit of the governor and legislative leadership, these matters (including the Great Salt Lake) will be a priority.
Webb: It’s tough to spend a big, fat state surplus and dump truck loads of federal money. But somebody’s gotta step up and do it, and Utah’s 104 lawmakers will enjoy doling out all that cash. They will deal with rapid growth: Water conservation and development, air quality, transportation investment and education funding. They will debate ways to save the Great Salt Lake from drying up. They will consider tax cuts and a host of lesser issues.
They must be wise and frugal, because the federal money is going to dry up and our great economy won’t last forever. Don’t imperil the future by granting too large a tax cut.
Salt Lake City and Salt Lake County are led by Democratic mayors and the population tends to be more left-of-center than the rest of the state. Will the Legislature allow these local governments, and others, to establish their own COVID-19 policies?
Pignanelli: Any such discussions will be focused on further restricting, not expanding, local government power to impose mandates.
Webb: Personally, I don’t support more pandemic government mandates. We’re done with mandates. But because I believe in local control, rather than dictates from above, I don’t believe the Legislature should prevent these local governments from taking whatever action they deem proper. Let them make their policies and face their voters.
I do believe we all should use common sense. That means voluntary vaccinations and face masks as appropriate. No shutting down schools or businesses.
Inflation could upend government in ’22
The people in charge (Democrats, in this case) always get the blame
By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb
The holiday decorations are back in storage, 2022 calendars are hanging on walls and weight loss resolutions are still being obeyed. That means it’s time to highlight issues that will be discussed, debated and possibly impact laws and elections in the new year. (Of course, in a year we will remind you of correct predictions and ignore the misses.)
Your columnists are the last generation (which means we are really old) that remembers when inflation was a major political issue. Will history repeat in 2022?
Pignanelli: “Inflation is taxation without legislation.” — Milton Friedman.
History documents that leaders, and often entire governments, can be jettisoned by citizen angst with price inflation. If by Labor Day the cost of household purchases is still increasing beyond 4%, Republican economic messaging will be successful in congressional and down-ballot races.
Webb: Unfortunately, inflation is real and raging. The people in charge (Democrats, in this case) always get the blame. It will be one among many issues that will likely produce a Republican takeover of Congress in the midterm elections later this year.
The U.S. House Select Committee on the Jan. 6 attack will be conducting hearings and issue a report in the new year. Regardless of results, any impact on Utah?
Pignanelli: Because of the needless politicization in the creation of this committee, the conclusions will have limited electoral effect. However, most Utahns will expect their officials to distance themselves from the organizations and individuals responsible for the tragedy.
Webb: What happened on Jan. 6 was a terrible stain on our democracy and those involved should be (and are being) punished. But this investigation isn’t a political winner for Democrats except among their narrow base (whose support they already enjoy). For heartland Americans, it seems Democrats just can’t refrain from mounting one partisan, politically motivated investigation after another to punish Trump. Will they impeach him a third time? The longer it drags on the more it looks like persecution, not prosecution. Citizens are tired of it.
So far, winter precipitation is above average. If this remains through the spring does the recent desire to deal with water issues and the Great Salt Lake fizzle or continue forward?
Pignanelli: Veteran observers agree that the focus on water issues, including those surrounding the lake, will continue regardless of the weather. Utahns possess the common sense that these problems need attention, and their officials are reflecting this desire.
Webb: The Cox administration and legislative focus on the Great Salt Lake is greatly needed. Providing some significant funding, as proposed, is an important step forward.
Progressive groups disappointed with Republican redistricting maps are considering lawsuits to overturn the plans. Will they succeed, and does this controversy become an election issue?
Pignanelli: The lawsuit does not occur and media coverage fades as their audiences have other concerns.
Webb: A lawsuit at this late date could mess up election schedules for a multitude of candidates who are already off and running. They need to know their district boundaries. Challenges are unlikely to succeed.
Utah’s population continues rapid growth. Does this impact on our lifestyle affect deliberations on state and local levels?
Pignanelli: Affordable housing for young families and much-needed employees will continue to dominate municipal and state actions. Shrewd officials will include discussions regarding better roads, public transportation, parks and public safety to soothe current homeowners.
Webb: Coping with rapid growth is Utah’s biggest challenge. Constant investment in infrastructure is required to maintain mobility, and carrots and sticks are needed to provide affordable housing and high-density, multi-use developments. A plethora of children requires massive education investment. Thank goodness for a strong economy.
Utah enjoys a powerhouse economy. While the benefits are obvious, how should officials respond?
Pignanelli: State officials are examining whether tax incentives are still necessary or should be more strategic in allocation. Further, air quality and water usage are now strong components when reviewing expansion of existing, or recruiting new, manufacturing operations.
Webb: Enjoy the great economy while it lasts. It can’t go on forever. Spend carefully. Cut taxes very strategically — if at all. Don’t give away revenue, because it’s almost impossible to raise taxes to get it back. Utah’s taxes are low by historical standards. Bolster rainy day funds and pay down debt.
Gov. Spencer Cox and many lawmakers have prioritized development in rural Utah. Does this continue?
Pignanelli: Yes. This strategy is brilliant on so many levels.
Webb: Absolutely. We need to spread out growth and jobs, and reduce urban congestion. People who can work from home can live anywhere and enjoy a great quality of life in rural Utah.
The U.S. Supreme Court is likely to rule on many matters issues this year, including mandatory vaccinations and abortion. What is the impact on Utah politics?
Pignanelli: There will be rallies and demonstrations. The Legislature — most likely in a special session — will modify abortion restrictions allowed by the court. The contentious matter will have no influence on the elections. But the decision regarding vaccinations will be a topic in some campaigns.
Webb: Thank goodness for a conservative court that values constitutional originalism. The conservative cause will likely make progress in the judicial system this year. About time.
Will both national and state voting issues dominate discussions and affect voter turnout?
Pignanelli: The legislative audit will confirm Utah is the platinum standard on election integrity. Thus, wrangling on a national level over election laws will not permeate our state.
Webb: Democrats in Congress want to completely federalize election laws and procedures. That would be a terrible mistake that a future GOP Congress or the courts would have to overturn.
A look at the political lessons learned in 2021
The overarching lesson of 2021 is that Americans cannot be taken for granted. They rightfully demand explanations and participation in the process.
By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb
2021 was a fascinating political year. We look at some of the things learned over the past 12 months.
For Democrats at the national level, in control of Washington, 2021 started off with high hopes for major legislative accomplishments. Republicans played defense all year, overshadowed by the presence of former President Donald Trump. What are the lessons of their successes and failures?
Pignanelli: “The story of the year’s politics has been one of partisan, cultural and ideological divisions that defy easy resolution. Neither party has the strength to really impose its will. So, in 2021, governing was just hard.” — Gerald Seib, Wall Street Journal
For political observers, 2021 confirmed the traditional rules of politics remain significant. For example, an understanding of mathematics is critical for success. A three-vote majority in the U.S. House and a one-vote majority in the U.S. Senate is not a mandate. Instead, these numbers signal an absolute requirement of collaboration to pass anything.
President Joseph Biden, when a senator, was masterful in cobbling together coalitions on large legislative initiatives. Thus, it was no surprise congressional bipartisanship delivered the largest legislative accomplishment, the $1.2 trillion for infrastructure improvements. But for everything else, left-wing progressives apparently need tutoring on this lesson.
Electoral activities in 2021 further underscored voters care about the future, not the past. Democrats who messaged against Trump, and Republicans who embraced the former president, fared poorly. The rule “stuff happens so be prepared” was ignored, at an expense. Coronavirus variants, the Afghanistan pullout and price inflation all raised competency questions towards the Biden administration.
The tenet “Democracy is messy” was evident. Americans are wrestling with teaching race, mandatory vaccinations, nondiscrimination principles and climate change. While seeming confusing and traumatic, all Americans are engaged in conversations of these issues.
The overarching lesson of 2021 is that Americans cannot be taken for granted. They rightfully demand explanations and participation in the process. This is truly heartwarming.
Webb: The biggest political lesson of 2021 is this: Don’t overreach; don’t assume you have a mandate to take the country in a radical new direction when you don’t. A corollary is this: Understand the mood of the country, especially working-class citizens in the heartland, before trying to force through dramatic change. Don’t try to govern the entire country through the lens of East Coast and West Coast values.
Democrats won the presidency and the U.S. House and Senate fair and square (despite protestations by Trump). But the margins of victory were tiny. The Senate is 50-50. Republicans picked up a lot of House seats. And Joe Biden barely won the presidency.
But instead of governing with a little humility, from the center, reaching out to the other side, the Democrats swung for a grand slam left-wing home run, championing every ultra-progressive issue and program imaginable.
Now Biden suffers almost historically low approval ratings, the progressive wing of the party is angry and disillusioned, and the stage is set for Republicans to win big in the 2022 midterms. It was never realistic for progressive Democrats to try to transform society.
Meanwhile, Republicans effectively played the loyal opposition all year. But when they have to perform in elections and policy initiatives, the wild card that is the Trump card could mess things up.
In Utah, the priorities of a new governor, a headstrong Republican legislature, a vibrant economy and the hazards of redistricting all combined to produce an intriguing year. What did we learn about our state politics?
Pignanelli: Utahns are a pragmatic people, and many actions of our state officials reflected this virtue. Controversial social issues were reviewed but also confined to prevent them overwhelming deliberations in other matters. The critical attention on water, air quality, climate change and growth problems were subtle but very real.
Utah is growing with a diverse demographic flavor. We are a global center of innovation for technology, financial services and health care. Yet, the “Utah Way” remains a priority. Another refreshing sign of the times.
Webb: Utah is by no means perfect. We face our share of problems. We need to do a better job with education, for example. But we have good governance in Utah. Our state and local leaders don’t ignore problems. They solve them thoughtfully and reasonably. They take care of basic needs and they balance budgets. They are in sync with citizen priorities and values. This is a good time to be a Utahn.
Hovering above everything in 2021 was the COVID-19 pandemic. What political impact did the dreaded coronavirus have?
Pignanelli: Response to the pandemic became a litmus test for many officeholders across the political spectrum. This will influence interparty contests in 2022.
Webb: It’s unfortunate that the pandemic turned into a divisive political issue. Trump was vilified by his opponents for not controlling the pandemic. But Biden and the Democrats haven’t done any better. This is a tough battle, more difficult than anyone anticipated. Biden’s struggles with COVID-19 — including not being prepared with millions of test kits needed right now — are contributing to his low approval ratings.
The reality is that neither Biden or Trump deserve criticism for things outside of their control. But when bad things happen, the people in charge get the blame.
A sneak peek at politicians’ letters to Santa
Many politicos are angry and defiant and thus have landed on Santa’s “naughty list”
By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb
Pignanelli & Webb: Despite the hope the pandemic would unite the nation and produce greater compassion among Americans, many politicos are angry and defiant and thus have landed on Santa’s “naughty list.” Of course, they are still seeking favors from the world’s most generous North Pole celebrity. Despite the risk of a congressional investigation, we decline to divulge our sources for this material and rely on the First Amendment to avoid prosecution.
President Joseph Biden: “C’mon, man! Just an extra 10 points on the approval ratings. Nothin’ big, I’m a nice guy, I kid you not, just 10 points!”
West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin: For all those liberals wishing me coal in my stocking, I say to Santa, “Please deliver a ton! I love coal. Christmas stockings are a great market for West Virginia coal.”
Left wing, self-proclaimed “woke” progressives: “We refuse to accept anything from this wretched example of everything that is wrong with the world. You exploit smaller humans while subjecting them to low wages and the discriminatory label of ‘elves’; your partner is barely acknowledged; the reindeer are treated cruelly and exceed an eight-hour workday; and you glorify the consumption of sugary, nonvegan foods.
Right wing, self-proclaimed guardians of liberty: “We don’t want anything from the obvious tool of fake media. You are clearly part of the conspiracy, using big tech social media algorithms to gather personal information as to who is naughty and who is nice. Further, your incessant gift-giving smacks of socialism.”
Donald Trump: “Hey Santa, clear the regulatory hurdles so I can get my media company ‘Truth Social’ going so no one can censor me. Also, make sure Twitter keeps me banned because I don’t make any money from it anyway.”
Gov. Spencer Cox: “I spent a lot of political capital developing my budget and vision for the state. All I ask is that the Legislature, the media and special interest groups do something different next year — actually pay attention to it.”
Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson: “Santa, please let all the election workers across the state know they are appreciated. And to those scoundrels claiming fraud in Utah’s elections, please show me the evidence — put up or shut up.”
State Auditor John Dougall: “I am still grateful for the 1 million votes — most ever for a Utah politician — you gave me in 2020. Makes me think I should run for governor, or U.S. senator.”
Attorney General Sean Reyes: “Just keep that overreach by the Biden administration coming so I can keep filing federal lawsuits and eventually argue before a friendly Supreme Court.”
House Speaker Brad Wilson: “No more resignations from my caucus, please. I have to spend Christmas vacation just memorizing all the new people’s names.”
Senate President Stuart Adams: “Nothing for me this year. But I do wish the world a peaceful, calm Christmas, as quiet and serene as any day in the Senate.”
Sen. Mike Lee: “Santa, I know you respect the strength of participatory democracy. So how about giving me a few more election challengers to dilute the opposition and ensure my reelection?”
Sen. Mitt Romney: “Please, more missteps by the Biden administration, which should not be a big lift. I need more opportunities to demonstrate my conservative credentials.”
Congressman Chris Stewart: “Chairmanship of the House Intelligence Committee would be a nice gift. In return, I will always clear and protect the airways from nefarious foreign interventions on Dec. 24-25 to protect your late-night global excursions.”
National Democrats: “Could you possibly deliver the votes for the ‘Build Back Better’ package? Within the $2 trillion there’s money for organic, non-GMO reindeer feed.”
National Republicans: “Santa, many thanks. Christmas came early for us this year — Afghanistan debacle, high inflation, out of control wokeism, immigration chaos, and Joe Manchin.”
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall: “Seriously, I’m hoping Santa will deliver to all my municipal colleagues throughout the state a desire to relieve the capital city of some of the homeless burden.”
National news media: “Please keep the two old guys representing the major political parties saying silly stuff because it sells. Also, reporting on political rantings is easier than actual journalism.”
Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson: “This is a time for forbearance. So I’m willing to forgive the County Council their mistake in not funding my entire budget. I hope Santa will deliver wisdom so they will change their ways.”
Congressman John Curtis: “Santa, nothing too difficult — just a fair compromise on Bears Ears National Monument. One that makes everyone happy. I know you have magical powers.”
Congressman Burgess Owens: “Santa, I appreciate my new district boundaries. Now just give me a few easy opponents and I won’t bug you for a full year.”
Congressman Blake Moore: “Santa, I need the name of a really good financial reporting professional. The media loves to jump on me for mistakes on reports that I’m not sure anyone really cares about.”
All Utahns: “Santa, please deliver extraordinary precipitation this winter so we can fulfill the basic needs of our lives — water-skiing, snow skiing, swimming pools, golf courses, perfectly manicured lawns, clean cars, washing down driveways, etc.”
Deseret News: Happy holidays to our readers – especially those who endure the antics of Pignanelli & Webb every week.