August 11, 2026

Utah Democrats refuse Republican help & continue their tantrum

Given the choice between accepting Republican help and continuing a public temper tantrum, Utah Democrat Jim Dabakis prefers a tantrum.

In the end, Utahns can tell the difference between grand standing and good public policy. On one hand we have Litvak, who represents the image of a consistent, fair public servant. On the other hand, we have Dabakis, more interested in a headline, in smearing his opponents than seeking compromise and the public interest.

We need public servants more like Litvack, willing to stand by his oath to the public over short-term interest and party loyalty. Politicians like Dabakis are savvy with the media, and he makes for great copy, but his grandstanding does little for the public interest. [cont…]

Meet Rep. Jim Nielson of Utah’s 19th Legislative District

I met Rep. Jim Nielson during a town-hall meeting. Self effacing and intent, he was just as quick to listen to my questions and thoughts as he was to share his. It’s a refreshing change from a lot of politicians who seem more interested on in their opinions.

Rep. Nielson doesn’t waste time on fluff or message bills. This year he’s proposing a change to the Utah Constitution that would protect the revenues from natural resources from raiding by hungry politicians for short term needs. I like that it protects the great mineral wealth in Utah for future generations and maximizes our assets. I found Rep. Nielson to be like that about everything–thoughtful, considerate, and smart. […]

Utah Legislature Watch: See what happens when voters pay attention?

House Bill 477 has caused quite the stir up on Capitol Hill, Utah. Let me explain… No, there is too much. Let me sum up: Last week, Rep. John Dougall presented House Bill 477 to limit GRAMA (Government Records Access and Management Act) requests from including text messages and instant messages. Within 72 hours, it had passed […]

Utah Legislature Watch: a few bills I’m following

Conservative, moderate or liberal: there have been a few bills that bug me this session of the Utah Legislature, and there have been a few that I liked that just aren’t making it. Here are four that sample both. One I liked: As biker, I liked Senator Niederhauser’s bill that would have allowed bikers at […]

Utah Legislature Watch: Debate over ‘Democracy’ or ‘Republic?’

Worth it or not, it’s an interesting discussion…for political scientists. Just kidding. But really: I do think it is an interesting discussion, and I do think it ought to be taught right in our schools. But should Utah legislators be getting their panties in a bunch over it? I’m dubious. They aren’t the most educated […]

Can legislation save the world?

“The world is not going to be saved by legislation,” William Howard Taft said. An interesting discussion by Salt Lake’s LaVarr Webb and Frank Pignanelli on who legislators listen to: constituents or lobbyists. (h/t Deseret News)

Utah Legislature Watch: Some Conservatives don’t like Con-cons

Even after the rise and vengeance of the Tea Party in elections last November, the political right still does not agree on how to carry out its goals. One of the oft shouted stated calls by activists, shrinking federal power and returning to a balance of power between the states and federal government (see also […]