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Dec 10, 2008 County Councilman Joe Hatch to serve as chair County councilman and former Salt Lake County Democratic Party Chair Joe Hatch will be serving as Salt Lake County Council chair when the Democrats take over the county council officially next month. Democrats won a 5-4 majority on the county council in last month's elections. To read the full... Salt Lake Tribune more
Dec 5, 2008 Progressive club starts up at BYU Earlier this year it was reported BYU College Democrats had as many if not more members than the BYU College Republicans. The Provo Daily Herald is now reporting BYU is the home of another new progressive club, The Roosevelt Club. To read the full story, click here: Provo Daily Herald more
Dec 5, 2008 Ethics reform promises made and broken The Deseret Morning New's Bob Bernick points out in his December 5th column ethics reform promises have come and gone many times over the years. Will the 2009 legislative session be any different? Read Bernick's full column by clicking here: Utah Democratic Party more
Nov 28, 2008 Local city leaders see promise in Obama rescue plan Local city leaders are hopeful President-elect Obama's proposed rescue plan could put hundreds of millions into the local economy. More than 80 local infrastructure projects could see federal money under the plan generating much needed jobs. To read the full article, click here: Salt Lake Tribune more
Nov 28, 2008 Beaver county seeing clean energy boom Construction is underway in Beaver County on 97 wind turbines capable of generating up to 300 megawatts. These turbines represent phase 1 of a Utah's largest ever clean energy development. Beaver County is also hoping to become the center of future solar and geothermal development. Click here... Salt Lake Tribune more
Nov 26, 2008 Lt. Governor to question Shurtleff on use of state seal Lt. Governor Herbert's office will be sending a letter to Attorney General Shurtleff regarding his use of the letterhead containing the state seal to endorse a product marketed by a major donor. To read the full article, click here: Utah Democratic Party more
Nov 22, 2008 Education faces 5 - 10% cut Education could face up to 10% cuts next fiscal year due to hardships generated by the Bush recession. The Deseret Morning News is reporting teacher bonuses and money allocated for merit pay are already facing delays. To read the full story click here: Utah Democratic Party more
Sep 12, 2007 Sen. Hillary Clinton schedules fundraiser in Park City Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton will make her first visit to Utah next month for a fundraiser and private reception in Park City. The Salt Lake Tribune more
Jul 8, 2007 Taking political buffoonery to a new high Rep. Chris Cannon of Utah's 3rd Congressional District has earned the title of our state's No.1 political buffoon, fair and square. Utah Democratic Party more
Jul 1, 2007 Editorial: Congress rightly holds executive branch accountable The president's claim to executive privilege is far from absolute and Congress is right to finally begin holding this administration accountable. Read the entire NY Times editorial here: New York Times more
Jun 29, 2007 Did Romney supporter make improper contribution to campaign? Did a Utah supporter of Mitt Romney make an illegal contribution to the Romney campaign by chartering a $150,000 plane to fly people to a fundraising event? That is the question raised in a Salt Lake Tribune article. Click here to read more: Salt Lake Tribune more
Jun 21, 2007 Mitt's money man stays on despite ties to firm accused of child abuse A Utah man remains on presidential candidate Mitt Romney's state finance committee despite his ties to an organization that a lawsuit alleges abuses children. The Salt Lake Tribune more
Jun 20, 2007 Payback from "control freaks with bruised egos" The nonpartisan State Board of Education may learn a lesson about paybacks in politics next year. And if it happens, the experts, the members of the Utah Legislature, will be teaching the class. Editorial, The Salt Lake Tribune more
Jun 15, 2007 A new cause to champion In March, doctors treating Ed Mayne for pneumonia discovered a cancerous mass in his right lung. Since then, the West Valley Democrat has undergone aggressive rounds of chemotherapy, shaved his head and found a new cause to champion. The Salt Lake Tribune more
Jun 14, 2007 Fourth House seat clears Senate hurdle Utah's potential fourth House seat cleared another legislative hurdle Wednesday, but potential candidates should not start working on campaign slogans just yet. The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee approved the bill, with several more Republican members expressing... Deseret Morning News more
Jun 8, 2007 GOP-dominated Legislature has forgotten our state's veterans Many in the Legislature seem only concerned with gaining power and serving their own interests. A case in point is legislative leadership's disregard for Utah veterans. Standard-Examiner more
Jun 2, 2007 Edwards brings progressive message to Utah Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards, traveling to Salt Lake City Friday, said he's the candidate who could get Utahns to reject the Republican choice for the White House for the first time in four decades. Deseret Morning News more
May 26, 2007 Matheson seeks hearing to expand nuke fallout compensation Democratic Congressman Jim Matheson has taken the first step that may result in expansion of federal fallout compensation. Deseret Morning News more
May 25, 2007 Democrats trusted more than Republicans on 10 key issues According to a Rasmussen Report poll released this week, Democrats are currently trusted more than Republicans on all 10 issues measured in Rasmussen Reports tracking surveys. Democrats even have slight advantages on National Security and Taxes, two issues owned by Republicans during the... Rasmussen Reports more
May 22, 2007 Richardson announces bid for presidency In English and Spanish, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson on Monday declared himself a candidate to become the first Hispanic president of the United States. The former congressman and Cabinet secretary said his track record makes him the right person to repair the "ravages" of the Bush... Deseret News more
May 22, 2007 Cannon votes against COPS Utah Republican Congressman Chris Cannon voted against reauthorizing a federal program to put more cops on the street. The Salt Lake Tribune more
May 21, 2007 Utah's Democratic Party chair: A pragmatic progressive Wayne Holland didn�t have a chance. The die was cast. His political proclivities were set at an early age, and they didn�t waver. By the age of 6, he was on his way to become State Democratic Party Chairman. Read the profile by Greg Jarrard, of Utah Policy.com Utah Policy more
May 21, 2007 Utah's Democratic Party chair: A pragmatic progressive Wayne Holland didn�t have a chance. The die was cast. His political proclivities were set at an early age, and they didn�t waver. By the age of 6, he was on his way to become State Democratic Party Chairman. Read the profile by Greg Jarrard, of Utah Policy.com Utah Policy more
May 11, 2007 Salt County party chairman outlines winning strategy for Democrats Christian Burridge, the new chair of the Salt Lake County Democratic Party, says Utahns are beginning to question whether one-party, super-majority government best represents their interests. Burridge says the Democratic message of fiscal responsibility and common sense policies combined with... KCPW more
May 9, 2007 Governor Sebelius' concerns about National Guard readiness shared by all governors While the White House has been critical of Kansas Governor Sebelius for pointing out equipment shortages due to the war in Iraq left the Kansas National Guard unable to promptly respond to natural disaster, the truth is all 50 governors called on the president in a letter sent in 2006 to more... Utah Democratic Party more
May 7, 2007 Mayor Peter Corroon popular enough to win a statewide election According to the Salt Lake Tribune, Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon is seeing his popularity skyrocket. Voters appreciate his integrity and his willingness to look out for their interests on issues like the Real Salt Lake soccer stadium. The article concludes Corroon has a serious chance... Utah Democratic Party more
May 2, 2007 Immigration activists push to legalize undocumented workers Thousands of people rallied Monday in downtown Salt Lake City, hoping to send the same message to Congress that they marched for last year: Immigration reform to legalize millions of undocumented workers is needed now. Salt Lake Tribune more
May 2, 2007 Herbert shuts out voucher victors Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert held a press conference in the Governor's Board Room on Monday to announce organizers had obtained enough certified signatures to get a referendum on the ballot to repeal the voucher law. Nancy Pomeroy and Elisa Peterson, two of the main lobbyists for the pro-voucher group... Paul Rolly, The Salt Lake Tribune more
May 2, 2007 Those feuding Republicans: Enid fires Hartley State Republican Party Executive Director Jeff Hartley was fired Tuesday by party Chair Enid Greene, who said he was spending too much money. However, Hartley, quoted in both the Salt Lake Tribune and Deseret Morning News, said his termination was "personal, petty, and vindictive." Salt Lake Tribune more
Apr 30, 2007 Steve Olsen: Liberals keeping the faith? It can and does happen For too long, Americans have allowed the Republican Noise Machine to redefine the term "conservative" to stand for everything that is good and "liberal" to stand for everything that is evil. Faith-based groups affiliated with the Religious Right are not the only ones flourishing in America today. Standard Examiner more
Apr 29, 2007 "This is our time." The Salt Lake County Democrataic Convention Saturday elected Christian Burridge the new chairman of the county party in an uncontested race. Burridge told the delegates that "This is our time. This is a generational moment for us." Deseret News more
Apr 15, 2007 Southern Utah Conventions news coverage Washington & Iron County conventions received excellent coverage in both the St. George Spectrum and the Deseret Morning News. To visit links to all the stories regarding the events this past weekend in both counties, click here: Utah Democratic Party more...
Apr 14, 2007 Southern Utah Democrats second annual Jefferson/Jackson Dinner a success Washington County Democrats held their second Jefferson/Jackson Dinner on April 13th. The keynote speaker was State Senator Pat Jones. She articulated the values Utah Democrats share with southern Utahns. Education, affordable health care, affordable housing, recent voucher legislation, and... Utah Democratic Party more
Apr 11, 2007 Chairman Holland Op-ed in April 11, 2007 St. George Spectrum Utah Democratic Party Chairman Wayne Holland was published in today's St. George Spectrum articulating the values Utah Democrats share with citizens of southern Utah. Chairman Holland argued in light of rapid growth in the region, citizens will be better served by the long-term vision put... Utah Democratic Party more
Apr 9, 2007 Some legislators spending campaign funds on a lot more than just campaigns Utah legislators are clearly taking advantage of Utah's lax campaign finance laws. An article in the April 9, 2007 Deseret Morning News shows as much as 1 out of every $5 in donations received by lawmakers are being used for personal use. To read the entire article, click here: Utah Democratic Party more
Apr 8, 2007 Salt Lake mayoral race "wide open" According to a new poll published in the Sunday, April 8 edition of the Deseret Morning News just about any of the ten declared candidates for mayor could lead the city for the next four years. To view the article, including the results of the poll, click here: Utah Democratic Party more
Apr 8, 2007 Matheson beats Bishop & Cannon when it comes to being present for a vote Congressman Matheson misses fewer votes than his two Republican counterparts in the House. So far, the 110th Congress is the first one in a while Congressman Cannon has beat the overall House average of missing just 4.1% of the votes cast. To read the entire story, click here: Utah Democratic Party more
Apr 6, 2007 Congressman Matheson draws huge crowd in Cedar City Congressman Jim Matheson visited Southern Utah University yesterday and drew a crowd of about 150 students, approximately six times the number that attended a similar event featuring U.S. Senator Bob Bennett just days before. Matheson addressed issues ranging from immigration and the recently... Utah Democratic Party more
Apr 1, 2007 Utah Democrats mourn the passing of Mary Dawn Bailey On March 26, 2007 Mary Dawn Bailey passed away after a long battle with brain cancer. Mary Dawn was the daughter of late state Senator J. Arthur Bailey and wife to 2004 U.S. Senate candidate R. Paul Van Dam. Many Democrats will remember Mary Dawn for bringing her love of cycling to the 2004 Van... Utah Democratic Party more...
Mar 26, 2007 Reform minded House Minority Leader not invited to lobbyist sponsored golf trip Following the 2007 legislative session, some lobbyists familiar to most lawmakers on Utah's Capitol Hill held a golf and dinner get together in St. George. While many lawmakers attended, including House Speaker Greg Curtis, House Minority Leader Ralph Becker didn't even receive an invite. Could... Utah Democratic Party more...
Mar 25, 2007 Chairman Wayne Holland on the consequences of Republican dominance in Utah In an op-ed appearing in today's Ogden Standard Examiner, Utah State Democratic Party Chairman Wayne Holland spoke to the consequences of Republican domination in Utah and praises those willing to use their rights under the Utah Constitution to be heard on issues. To read his entire column,... Utah Democratic Party more...
Mar 23, 2007 Republicans block bill giving Utah 4th Congressional seat In an effort to block legislation giving Utah a fourth Congressional District and giving voters in Washington, DC a voice in Congress for the first time in history, Republicans attached a gun control amendment at the 11th hour to derail the legislation. While some Republicans like 1996... Utah Democratic Party more...
Mar 21, 2007 Republicans oppose Utah receiving 4th seat An article in the Salt Lake Tribune reports on White House and Republican opposition to Utah receiving a fouth congressional seat. President Bush has gone so far as to threaten a veto. Last year, during the closing days of the Republican 109th Congress Republicans failed to pass the measure.... Utah Democratic Party more
Mar 14, 2007 Democratic led House votes to approve three new bills promoting greater transparency in government The House has passed three pieces of legislation intended to create more open and transparent government. Each of these bills passed by more than 300 votes, with even significant Republican support. Unfortunately, on two out of three of the bills, both Congressman Bishop and Congressman Cannon... Utah Democratic Party more
Mar 11, 2007 Speaker Curtis' friends did well in 2007 legislative session Republican Speaker Gret Curtis appears to have made sure his friends were taken care of during the 2007 legislative session according to an article in the March 11 Salt Lake Tribune. Is the Speaker paying as much attention to the interests of the people as he is to those of his friends? You be... Utah Democratic Party more...
Mar 8, 2007 Matheson & 'Blue Dog' Democrats assert influence The March 8 issue of the Provo Daily Herald contains an article regarding the influence Jim Matheson and the 43 member caucus called the Blue Dog Democrats are having in the new Democratic Congress. To find a linkd to the article or to the Blue Dog Caucus website click here: Utah Democratic Party more...
Mar 7, 2007 Two County Democratic Party Chairs speak out Two of Utah's Democratic County chairs took the opportunity recently to make their voices heard. Utah County Democratic Party Chair Vaughn Cook called upon Congressman Chris Cannon to issue a serious apology following his outrageous comments regarding the recent Trolley Square shooting. Davis... Utah Democratic Party more...
Feb 19, 2007 Why Utah needs a bipartisan redistricting commission In the Sunday, Feb. 18 Salt Lake Tribune Representative Roz McGee lays out the argument for HB 373 creating a bipartisan redistricting commission. A recent poll conducted by Dan Jones and Associates and appearing in the Deseret Morning News on the same day reveals more than 2/3 of Utahns agree... Utah Democratic Party more
Feb 18, 2007 Vast majority of Utahns favor reform, legislature doesn't A new Dan Jones and Associates poll published in the Deseret Morning News finds an overwhelming majority of Utahns favor reform measures introduced primarily by Democrats. Unfortunately, these measures are once again likely to die in the legislature. Read the full story by clicking here: Utah Democratic Party more...
Feb 15, 2007 GOP Electoral College advantage may be disappearing According to regular Gallup polling done to determine which party adults identify with in the United States, Democrats have opened up a significant lead over Republicans, particularly among independent voters indicating they lean Democratic. According to political analyst Charlie Cook, this may... Utah Democratic Party more
Feb 14, 2007 Matheson shows support for troops with resolution support Congressman Matheson has announced his support on the House floor for a resolution opposing President Bush's proposed "surge" in Iraq. In his statement, Congressman Matheson said "If military might alone could succeed, we would be done by now." He then called upon the President to embrace the... Utah Democratic Party more...
Feb 11, 2007 Utah House Democratic Leadership Stands up for Public Education House Minority Leader Ralph Becker articulates the Democratic perspective on public education and vouchers. Not one Democrat serving in either the House or Senate voted for the voucher legislation sponsored by St. George Republican Stephen Urquhart. To read Representative Becker's comments from... Utah Democratic Party more...
Feb 11, 2007 Senator McCain changing his tune on campaign finance reform? Just about a year and a half ago, Sen. John McCain went to court to try to curtail the influence of a group to which A. Jerrold Perenchio gave $9 million, saying it was trying to "evade and violate" new campaign laws with voter ads ahead of the midterm elections. As McCain launches his own... Utah Democratic Party more...
Feb 11, 2007 Utah Democrats Mourn Loss of Phyllis Hart Moss Utah Democrats are mourning the loss of Phyllis Hart Moss, beloved Democrat and wife of former US Senator Frank (Ted) Moss. Phyllis passed away on February 6, 2007. We remember with gratitude the years of service Phyllis offered both the Democratic Party and the State of Utah together with her... Utah Democratic Party more...
Feb 9, 2007 Legislature approves vouchers Today the Utah Legislature passed what is being called "the nations most expansive school voucher program." Democratic Senator Gene Davis, responding to the passage of the bill in the Salt Lake Tribune, states "This is not about the children. We've got it covered up real nice making it seem... Utah Democratic Party more
Feb 8, 2007 Cache County Family loses son in Iraq The Utah Democratic Party extends its regards to the family of Captain Brain Freeman who died in Iraq on January 21st. Brian's mother is a resident of Cache County and active Democrat. We all owe a debt of gratitude to Captain Freeman and the many others that have sacrificed everything in... Utah Democratic Party more...
Feb 7, 2007 CNN and Nevada Democrats to host November debate Exactly one year before voters head to the polls to choose the next president, CNN and the Nevada Democratic Party will host a Democratic presidential debate in Las Vegas, the network and the state party announced Wednesday. Utah Democratic Party more
Feb 6, 2007 Presidential candidates speak to DNC members Last week, Democratic presidential hopefuls spoke to members of the Democratic National Committee, including Utah DNC members Chairman Wayne Holland, former Senator Karen Hale, and Helen Langan. To view any or all of the video's of the Democratic candidates' speeches, just click here. Utah Democratic Party more...
Jan 17, 2007 Matheson Op/Ed - Hold the government accountable Confronting the government's efforts to design, develop, and-I believe-ultimately test new nuclear weapons, has been my primary mission as Utah's representative. I voted against funding for the nuclear Robust Nuclear Earth Penetrator or "bunker-buster" as well as for test site readiness.
I... The Spectrum more...
Jan 14, 2007 Rolly: Blowing Democrats off the map But if you look at voting patterns statewide, Democrats get about 43 percent of the vote. So if the Legislature reflected the political makeup of the public it serves, there would be 32 Democrats to 43 Republicans in the House and 12 Democrats to 17 Republicans in the Senate. Salt Lake Tribune more...
Jan 14, 2007 Poll shows Utahns, Legislature priorities don't match up It's a perennial disconnect between public opinion and lawmakers. Polls of voter sentiment often outline a very different set of priorities from lawmakers' to-do list. So politicians typically dismiss public opinion surveys, insisting they know best what their constituents want. At the same time,... The Salt Lake Tribune more...
Jan 13, 2007 Nearly 11% of Utahns in poverty, study finds While Congress awaits Senate action on a minimum-wage hike from $5.15 to $7.25 an hour, a new report says that 10.9 percent of Utahns and one Utah child in 10 live in poverty.
Reps. Chris Cannon and Rob Bishop, both R-Utah, voted last Wednesday against the successful bill in the... Deseret Morning News more...

Jan 8, 2007 Deseret Morning News editorial Reform is called for, but legislators shy from it. That might actually mean coming up with ideas and laws that deal with the situation as it is instead of presenting a Fantasyland alternative. It's easier to dog the boys and girls with schoolbooks beneath their arms than it is to rethink the issue.     Deseret Morning News        more...

Jan 7, 2007 Gastric surgery: Bill would mandate that insurance pay "Our state laws have not defined morbid obesity as a medical disease," Mascaro said. "Medicare covers gastric bypass procedures in certain situations. People are having a devil of a time getting surgery that their doctors say will cure morbid obesity."     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Jan 3, 2007 New team takes reins in Salt Lake County "I want them to know the Salt Lake County sheriff wants to be a full partner with them in the future," Winder said. Although the idea of creating the agency doesn't sit well with him, he said, "I'm going to continue to push all options."     Deseret Morning News        more

Jan 2, 2007 Yocom: The prosecution rests - District attorney retires David Yocom built a reputation as a scrapper who hates to lose a fight - whether in the courtroom or the political arena.
Yocom prosecuted nearly 300 cases, 17 of them murders, during the 1970s. They included a kidnapping conviction for Ted Bundy and a murder conviction for polygamist...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jan 1, 2007 U.S. death toll in Iraq reaches 3,000 WASHINGTON (AP) -- The day after Saddam Hussein's execution, the death toll for Americans killed in the Iraq war reached 3,000 as President Bush struggles to salvage a military campaign that has scant public support.
The death of a Texas soldier, announced Sunday by the Pentagon, comes as...     Associated Press        more...

Dec 24, 2006 Utah risks loosing its best teachers Consider that a Utah teacher with a master's degree and 14 years experience could leave Utah, start at year one on the pay scale in Wyoming and make more money, and the severity of the situation becomes apparent.
The second report that caught my attention was the recent budget request...     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Dec 12, 2006 Basic-wage hike stalled? - After yearlong study, governor's panel fails to reach a consensus Undeterred, state lawmakers Sen. Ed Mayne, D-West Valley City, and Rep. Neil Hansen, D-Ogden, are moving ahead with bills to raise Utah's rate above the current $5.15 an hour.
"I don't know why we should shove our problems off on the feds if there's something we can do about it," said...     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Dec 9, 2006 GOP insider Cannon to lead Morning News Democrats were quick to jump on the announcement. Utah Democratic Party Communications Director Jeff Bell said having Cannon in control of the Deseret Morning News' coverage "makes me very, very nervous. I couldn't figure out how their bias would get any more blatant in how they cover 85 percent...     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Dec 9, 2006 Reactions to Cannon appointment "We're frankly shocked. You can't find a more partisan appointment for the slot. It's mind-blowing. I want to give him the benefit of the doubt, but we're worried. There's a definite conflict-of-interest problem." � Jeff Bell, Utah Democratic Party communications director     Deseret Morning News        more...

Dec 8, 2006 Nonpartisan redistricting panel unlikely Apparently Urquhart never read Animal Farm, where pigs ran the show � to paraphrase: All legislators are created equal, but some are more equal than others.
This observer will continue watching and commenting (Urquhart terms it "whining") on the Utah Legislature.
Anyone care...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Dec 8, 2006 Fiscal-note abuse costs 'real money' Fiscal notes are estimates made by economists and analysts of the impacts of new legislation. Over the past two years, tax commissioners have developed end runs around the fiscal note process to get zero-dollar fiscal notes for legislation that really costs the state millions of dollars per year....     Deseret Morning News        more...

Dec 8, 2006 Cannon ordered to pay $12,000 WASHINGTON - A Utah judge ordered Rep. Chris Cannon on Thursday to pay more than $12,000 to a former staffer who claimed Cannon defamed her by discussing a settlement of a sexual harassment lawsuit filed years earlier.     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Dec 3, 2006 Dan Jones honored for his teaching "We honored him for his more than four decades as a teacher of political science, journalism and generally teaching in the area of political engagement," said Utah Supreme Court Chief Justice Christine M. Durham.     Deseret News        more...

Dec 1, 2006 Politics as (Un)Usual: Blue Utah? State Senator Scott McCoy, who heartily endorsed Dean�s strategy, agreed that for Democrats to regularly win elections they cannot ignore the heartland anymore. �I think that if we are to regain majorities and begin to govern, that we have to be prepared to do that everywhere, not just in certain...     Catalyst Magazine        more...

Nov 27, 2006 4th-seat process infuriates DemoCRATs - Review: Minority party wants to see a special commission do Utah's redistricting Not surprisingly, minority Democrats like the idea. State Democratic Party Director Todd Taylor says he would rather boycott redistricting than give an air of bipartisan legitimacy to Republican lawmakers' efforts.
"The system is so entirely and totally corrupt. We have reached an...     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Nov 27, 2006 Utah Republicans still rule, but state Democrats could one day trim GOP power. The Democrats, conversely, are becoming more and more the model of discipline. New Chairman Wayne Holland has tempered ideological divides within the party in the name of winning elections.     City Weekly        more...

Nov 22, 2006 Democrat elected S.L. County auditor The Democrats captured another elected position in Salt Lake County government, adding the county auditor post.
Democrat Jeff Hatch was down 344 votes on election night but catapulted to a 1,235 vote lead after absentee, provisional and paper ballots were officially added to the...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Nov 22, 2006 Recounts on in 2 races - Curtis, Walker each won his seat by less than 20 votes While Democrats likely missed a golden opportunity to take out one of the most powerful Republicans in the state, the minority party in the Legislature did keep another one of its incumbents when Rep. Carl Duckworth, D-Magna, defeated challenger Deena Ely. Duckworth had trailed by 25 votes before...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Nov 22, 2006 Johnson insists she'll be voice for Snyderville Basin on education and transportation "I feel sorry for [Buttars] that he is so hateful His obsessive hatred for members of the gay community is suspicious," said Christine Johnson, a lesbian who was elected to serve parts of the Snyderville Basin and Salt Lake City in Utah's House of Representatives. "I think Chris Buttars sort of...     The Park Record        more...

Nov 22, 2006 Fourth-district debate: Panel endorses three redistricting options, bars the proposal pitched by Democrats from the short list "I'm frustrated. It's the same old thing," said Rep. Jackie Biskupski, D-Salt Lake City, who walked out of the meeting immediately after Republicans rejected her party's plan as unworthy of public input. "They always say they want input from the Democrats. Why have Democrats on the committee if...     Tribune        more...

Nov 21, 2006 53% of evangelicals say they wouldn't consider it, bad news for likely '08 hopeful Mitt Romney WASHINGTON - About 43 percent of Americans wouldn't even consider voting for a Mormon for president, according to a new poll that shows an increase from previous surveys in the number of voters unwilling to support an LDS candidate for the White House.     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Nov 20, 2006 Bait 'n' switch?: Legislators should keep Prop 3 promise to voters So, if the Utah Legislature were to delay or otherwise manipulate the process of deciding which transit projects come first -- or to slight mass transit in favor of road-building -- it would be the mother of all bait-and-switch scams, right?
*UT DEMS NOTE: This is the Republican...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Nov 19, 2006 Reid leads Mormons into D.C. mainstream "He doesn't even drink soda. I'm sure it was orange juice" Reid sipped during the presidential chat, joked Tessa Hafen, Reid's former spokeswoman. It's a small but important detail to note for Reid, who was elected last week to lead the Senate when Democrats take over in January. He'll...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Nov 8, 2006 GOP still rules, but speaker sweats Both parties focused most of their time and money on contested Salt Lake County races. But a new, more aggressive Republican strategy did not help conservative candidates much - particularly on the east side. Democrats Ross Romero, Carol Spackman Moss, Karen Morgan, Roz McGee and Pat Jones all...     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Nov 8, 2006 Rolly: Wacky bits as elections drew near Numerous state employees complained Tuesday that they received automatic voice messages for the Lohra Miller for District Attorney campaign on their state telephones - government property. And the messages were from the one guy who should know about improper use of government property: Utah...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Nov 8, 2006 Demo takeover will impact Utah delegation

Matheson credits moderate Democrats, known as the Blue Dogs, with the takeover and points out that is it not just going to be Pelosi, a more liberal Democrat, leading the House, but all levels of Democrats....     Deseret Morning News        more...

Nov 8, 2006 Winder pulls off an upset to pin on sheriff's badge Jim Winder - a career cop who wielded energy during a gritty campaign, lobbed a golf shot at his opponent and banked on his golden dairy-farmer name - toppled four-term Salt Lake County Sheriff Aaron Kennard on Tuesday.     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Nov 8, 2006 Matheson wins re-election to House by wide margin Matheson was also happy to learn that control in the U.S. House of Representatives had shifted to favor the Democrats as a result of the national election. During an interview with The Spectrum & Daily News, he credited the Blue Dog Coalition for the victory. "They're conservative Democrats...     The Spectrum        more...

Nov 8, 2006 Rumsfeld resigns as secretary of defense WASHINGTON � Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, unable to fulfill U.S. goals in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan during his tenure, is stepping down, President George W. Bush said today.     The Salt Lake Tribune wire services        more...

Nov 8, 2006 ROLLY: The Press Being Pawns The background: Salt Lake County Republican Chairman James Evans shopped carefully edited clips of Democratic Sheriff's candidate Jim Winder taped training seminar to the news media on Sunday, two days before the election. The four minutes of clips out of several hours of taping, shows Winder...     The Salt Lake Tribune Blogs - GenRolly Speaking        more...

Nov 5, 2006 Frank Schaeffer: I should be supporting Allen. Instead, I'm leaving the party. I'm a Christian, a writer, a military parent and a registered Republican. On all those counts, I was disgusted by an e-mail I just received that's being circulated by campaign supporters of Republican George Allen, who's trying to retain his Senate seat in Virginia.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Nov 1, 2006 Ashdown to Speak at Challengers Forum Thursday WHY: Though the incumbents lack the courage to defend their positions at every opportunity, the challengers relish the privilege of being able to communicate with their potential voters. With the incumbent advantage fully in place during this election, Ashdown is grateful to KCPW for being...     ASHDOWN        more...

Oct 31, 2006 Election '06: It's campaign crunchtime and niceties are scarce "He's trying to tar Matheson with a broad-brush allegation that is not accurate," said Matheson spokeswoman Alyson Heyrend. "He's trying to shoehorn Matheson into something that doesn't fit Matheson or his record.
"You have to find out what his definition of 'positive' was," she...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Oct 31, 2006 3rd Congressional District: Dem challenger counting on the 'X-Factor' Cannon said in interviews that House pages are "precocious" and "worldly" and may have led on disgraced Rep. Mark Foley as a prank. He supports House Speaker Dennis Hastert's refusal to resign over the issue.
Democratic Party spokesman Jeff Bell said Cannon's attitude is the equivalent of...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Oct 31, 2006 Democrats: Lukewarm GOP response for official meet-the-candidates nights Lack of formal debates among Davis candidates the week before elections isn�t from a lack of trying, say Democratic leaders who have had invitations declined by GOP candidates.
Democratic candidate Rob Miller, seeking the County Commission �A� seat, said he challenged his Republican...     Standard-Examiner        more...

Oct 28, 2006 Demo says he represents values abandoned by GOP Sugar beet ethic
Although Olsen's philosophies have evolved over the years, he credits growing up just south of Logan for his core beliefs. Although he had a good relationship with his father, he points to his grandfather, Lee, as the "real father figure" who instilled a strong work...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Oct 27, 2006 Tribune Editorial - Burridge in Dist. 3: Replace Cannon with a vigorous Utah Democrat At 31, he would be one of the youngest members of Congress, but as he rightly points out, that would be appropriate in a district with one of the youngest populations in the nation. The Tribune's Editorial Board believes that 3rd District voters would be better served by a young man who would be...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Oct 23, 2006 Winder for sheriff Winder, a Salt Lake County deputy with the rank of sergeant and 20 years experience in the department, can't match Kennard's 19 years with the Salt Lake City Police Department, 16 years as sheriff, his bachelor's and master's degree and professional training. But, at 43, Winder is 20 years...     SL Tribune Editorial        more...

Oct 19, 2006 County District 3: Turner's law-enforcement background tips scale Diane Turner, the Democratic candidate for the County Council from District 3, would give the council valuable expertise as it weighs those decisions. Her extensive background as a probation and parole officer for the state, as director of a successful juvenile sex-offender program at Decker Lake...     Tribune Editorial        more...

Oct 19, 2006 Gill for D.A.: Salt Lake City prosecutor brings policy vision to the job We, the Editorial Board of The Salt Lake Tribune, submit that in our judgment, Sim Gill is that candidate.
Mr. Gill, as you have heard, is chief prosecutor for Salt Lake City, where he has served for six years. But he also is a veteran of the D.A.'s office, where he prosecuted arson fraud...     Tribune Editorial        more...

Oct 19, 2006 Sheriff blames tight budget for slow response "Frankly, this is another example of how out of touch Sheriff Kennard is with the day-to-day work of his office, and the result is that public safety in Salt Lake County is being compromised." Winder, who has scheduled a news briefing on the issue for 10 a.m. today at the County Government...     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Oct 18, 2006 Ford in the 11th: New blood needed to replace Stephenson The voters of the 11th District would be doing themselves, and the entire state of Utah, a favor if they would elect Ford and end Stephenson's 14-year run of supporting a government that is far too comfortable operating behind closed doors and doing the bidding of big-spending special interests.     Tribune Editorial        more...

Oct 18, 2006 Newcomers are ready to make an impact "It's appropriate that they be the ones to finish what they started," Miller says. "I've looked at the issues. At this point, the need is there. I may support this tax increase publicly, but I would not vote for it because I've told the voters I would not raise taxes if they elect me."
...     The Salt Lake Tribune.        more...

Oct 18, 2006 Drawing the Line - The story on Utah�s fourthcongressional seat. Political circles have been most surprised, however, by Matheson�s reluctance to comment on the proposed �Democrat-safe� 2nd District or the turn the process has taken. �Rep. Matheson supported the original [statewide seat] legislation. It was Chairman Sensenbrenner and congressional Republicans...     Salt Lake City Weekly        more...

Oct 17, 2006 District 2 looks like Matheson cakewalk Matheson's electorial success is galling to Republicans, especially because the 2nd District normally votes Republican. Cook lists the district as 17 points plus Republican, yet puts Matheson in with nine other Democratic-held seats that will likely go Democratic on Nov. 7.     Deseret Morning News        more...

Oct 17, 2006 Bishop, Olsen tout credentials at debate While Rep. Rob Bishop, R-Utah, simply reminded the crowd of approximately 25 of his well-known conservative credentials, Democrat Steve Olsen attempted to cast himself as a nonpartisan, problem-solving moderate who would not walk lockstep with national Democrats.
"Congress, including...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Oct 17, 2006 Ashdown far from spending limit There are several debates scheduled in the U.S. Senate race. The next is 7 p.m. Wednesday on KTVX Channel 4. Ashdown has one of the most Internet-savvy Web sites around. You can find Ashdown's debate schedule there; you can even watch previous debates at www.peteashdown.org.     Deseret Morning News        more...

Oct 17, 2006 Congress is in desperate need of new blood I've heard frequently that if we don't keep our incumbents who have senior status, Utah won't have any substantial representation. But it is those same incumbents, regardless of their good intentions, who are the cause of the problem - corruption, stagnation and cowing to presidential command. If...     The Spectrum.        more...

Oct 17, 2006 Mullen: Prop. 3 needs a close look Conveniently, Valentine failed to mention in his public relations stumping that he faces a substantial challenge from Taylorsville Republican Michael Waddoups for the senate president seat. He knows that putting his name behind a list of transit projects will favor some senate districts over...     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Oct 17, 2006 Where they differ? Responding to a question from the audience regarding illegal immigration, Bishop said the United States' borders must first be secured before steps can be taken to address hiring practices involving undocumented workers.
However, Olsen said the ability of undocumented workers to obtain...     Standard-Examiner        more...

Oct 16, 2006 Pat Jones belongs in the Utah Senate Jones, by virtually any measure, would be the best replacement for Arent in District 4. She will serve the voters and the Senate with her hefty policy portfolio and bipartisan approach to solving problems.     Tribune Editorial        more...

Oct 14, 2006 Nearly half of Utahns say that Hastert should resign Half of all Utahns along the Wasatch Front think current U.S. House Speaker Dennis Hastert should resign his leadership post over the sex scandal involving a former GOP representative and congressional pages.
"I think the whole idea (of calling for his resignation) is pathetic. We...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Oct 13, 2006 Poor choice of words, Mr. Cannon And then when a serious scandal breaks, they blame the victims. They blame the opposing party for "leaking" the information to the media near an election. They blame everyone except those whose public trust is to watch over these youngsters and protect them.
Leaders don't stand up,...     Bob Bernick Jr. - Deseret Morning News        more...

Oct 13, 2006 Matheson acts on fallout study The more scientists look into the effects of fallout from nuclear weapons tests, the more damage they discover, says Rep. Jim Matheson.
The Utah Democrat was responding to a study by the University of Utah researcher Dr. Joseph Lyon and colleagues, which was reported in Wednesday's...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Oct 13, 2006 Rolly: Campaign follies in full swing The letter neglected to mention that the bill in question was sponsored by then-Republican Rep. Mike Styler and backed by Republican Speaker of the House Greg Curtis.
Thackeray, Garwood, Bagley, Ely and Clifford are strongly supported by the pro-school voucher group, Parents for Choice...     Paul Rolly - Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Oct 13, 2006 'No Excuses!' rally urges more fiscal support for Utah public education The state's largest teacher's union couldn't have a better spokesperson. As the group launched its second year of the "No Excuses! Invest in Public Schools" campaign Thursday, Noah's parents were among thousands of teachers attending the two-day annual UEA conference at the Salt Palace Convention...     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Oct 13, 2006 The plague of child predators The only defense is for parents to be actively engaged in their child's online activities, to strongly forbid them from using chat rooms, and to keep any Internet-connected home computers in clear sight and in parts of the home that receive frequent traffic. Perhaps the most frightening part of...     Deseret Morning News editorial        more...

Oct 12, 2006 Salt Lake DA hopefuls call each other green "Who is going to run that office? Somebody with experience in that office, somebody with felony experience? Or somebody who is hoping to learn on the job?'' Gill said during a recent interview. Gill likened Miller to a foot doctor who yearns to perform heart surgery.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Oct 12, 2006 Police, fire unions back challenger Winder's bid Jim Winder has a rallying cry: that Sheriff Aaron Kennard is more politician than policeman and out of touch with the rank and file.
Now, deputies and firefighters from Salt Lake County and Salt Lake City have joined the chorus.
    Utah Democratic Party        more...

Oct 12, 2006 �Precocious� Cannon - Rep. Chris Cannon puts Rep. Mark Foley�s foot in his mouth But as we all know by now, Cannon didn�t do any of this. Instead he wanted to talk about today�s �precocious� congressional pages and about how they seemed to be �egging� Rep. Foley �on.� �These kids are actually precocious kids,� Cannon told KSL. �It looks like uh, maybe this one e-mail is a...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Oct 12, 2006 Candidates debate N. Korea, health care and land-use issues Ashdown, the owner of Salt Lake City-based Internet-service-provider XMission, fears the bill was crafted without adequate public input. He accused Bennett - along with other elected politicians in Washington County - of crafting the legislation behind closed doors.
�When will these...     SL Trib        more...

Oct 12, 2006 Transit tax could be in peril - Lack of specific info on spending for projects could turn off voters But the main reason Executive Appropriations won't take up the matter during its Tuesday meeting: House Speaker Greg Curtis will be in China on a trade mission with Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr.
Besides, the Legislature's intent was to avoid politicizing transportation priorities, Valentine...     SL Trib        more...

Oct 11, 2006 Romero in Senate 7: Energetic lawmaker is a better choice Romero pledges to speak truth to that unresponsive power, and not just for the interests of Salt Lake City. His program is to build public education, for its own sake and as an engine of economic development, open up government and help assimilate the state's growing minority population.
...     Salt Lake Tribune Endorsement        more...

Oct 11, 2006 McCain is dead wrong about Bill Clinton and North Korea. In the spring of 1994, barely a year into Bill Clinton's presidency, the North Koreans announced that they were about to remove the fuel rods from their nuclear reactor (as a first step to reprocessing them into plutonium), cancel their commitment to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (which they had...     Slate        more...

Oct 11, 2006 Lohra Who? - Some donors to the GOP candidate for district attorney have buyer�s remorse. Of Miller, the employee said: �I had no idea who she was, really, truly never heard her name before.� But, like 17 colleagues, the employee gave Miller $2,000, the maximum legal contribution. �I have a family to take care of, and I don�t want to lose my job,� the employee explained.     City Weekly        more...

Oct 8, 2006 Mullen: Blame creeps in Congress Utah's 3rd District Republican congressman's comments last week regarding the congressional page scandal are outrageous. He hass now had the luxury of several spin cycles in the news media, but it still comes down to this: Cannon said what he meant, and he meant what he said.
He should be...     Salt Lake Tribune - Mullen        more...

Oct 6, 2006 Cannon: "Precocious" Pages Egged on Foley in Online Sex Scandal In the interview aired Thursday night, Cannon told the Nightside Project that Congressman Foley should not bear all of the blame for allegedly sending sexually explicit messages to House pages. Rep. Chris Cannon, R-Utah: "Frankly, this is the responsibility of the parents. If you get online...     KSL        more...

Oct 6, 2006 Cannon: Teens "egging on" Foley in online sex scandal State Democratic Party spokesman Jeff Bell posted on his blog that Republicans have been trying to blame Democrats for making the scandal political. "Fine. Do it. I don't care," Bell wrote. "And, you want to know why? Because one of Utah's politicians said the most disgusting, irresponsible...     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Oct 5, 2006 Springer in Dist. 42: Of two neophytes, Democrat better prepared Residents of House District 42 will have a novice politician as their representative next year, whether they choose Jim Bird or Norm Springer. Neither has held elected office before. Perhaps due to inexperience, neither Bird, a Republican, nor Springer, a recently converted Democrat, has a...     SL Tribune ENDORSMENT        more...

Oct 5, 2006 Shoot one foot, then another
Residents of Ogden, understand this: Your City Council has voted to keep you on the outside. Instead of simply taking the applications of those who wanted to be appointed to a vacant council seat and blacking-out...     Standard-Examiner Editorial        more...

Oct 1, 2006 Republican Stowell strikes out on campaign trail They visited with Democrats Emily Bingham Hollingshead and Larry Daniel. They talked to Ryan Bundy, Allison Howes, Sharla Christie and Woodard Westfall of the Constitution Party. They chatted with Republicans Bud Bowman and Dennis Stowell.
When Stowell bothered to show up, that is....     The Spectrum Editorial        more...

Sep 28, 2006 Shadow of Mansell hovers over state Senate race for District 9 "It concerns me when somebody is putting $85,000 of their own money to get a job that pays $10,000 a year. Is there something else they have in mind?" Beck asks.
"I'm sure he's very concerned about development and real estate," Beck adds. "But there are so many people up [on Capitol...     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Sep 28, 2006 Candidates make stop at SUU for voter registration drive "It kills me that so many students are apathetic, yet the decisions we make now, especially at the state level, will impact them more than they'll impact me," said Emily Bingham Hollingshead, the Democratic candidate for state Senate District 28. "Now is the time (to get involved). You need to...     The Spectrum        more...

Sep 28, 2006 Orrin Hatch, Software Pirate? But Hatch himself is using unlicensed software on his official website, which presumably would qualify his computer to be smoked by the system he proposes.
The senator's site makes extensive use of a JavaScript menu system developed by Milonic Solutions, a software company based in the...     Wired        more...

Sep 24, 2006 Mullen: Arrogant politicians are a disgrace Examples? Look at the decline of competitive legislative districts and the shameless gerrymandering by both parties. House campaigns have long been one endless election cycle, fed by non-stop fundraising.
"The growth and linkage of Congress with the lobbying community is shocking," Mann...     Salt Lake Tribune - Holly Mullen        more...

Sep 22, 2006 Even Republicans back Miller for commission �I will be a watchdog for the taxpayers of Davis County. I know that someone in that role can go too far. I promise that I won�t be a scandal monger. I won�t be a junkyard dog that barks at everything. Working as a bi-partisan pragmatist will give Davis County government the diversity and true...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Sep 21, 2006 Tribune Editorial - No help for schools No help for schools: Huntsman's dream may still turn ugly
Tribune Editorial
Pretend - and it will take all of your childlike capacity for belief to pull that off - that the income tax cut approved by the Utah Legislature Tuesday really will result in more money being raised for the...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Sep 20, 2006 Democrat Burridge appealing to John Jacob supporters Second, the self-described devout Republican said he found in Burridge a conservative, bipartisan, religious "Mathesonian Democrat," while in Cannon he perceived a Republican who had abandoned the ideals of the party. "He might be a Democrat in name, but he is reaching across party lines to...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Sep 17, 2006 Utah minimum-wage hike? 2 lawmakers hope to follow other states' increases in pay "There is a great movement going on, a massive movement going on, throughout the country to increase the wages for those who are on the lower end of the scale," said Sen. Ed Mayne, D-West Valley City, who plans to introduce a bill in the 2007 Legislature that would raise Utah's rate to $7 an...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Sep 8, 2006 Senate: No Prewar Saddam-al-Qaida Ties WASHINGTON (AP) -- There's no evidence Saddam Hussein had ties with al-Qaida, according to a Senate report on prewar intelligence that Democrats say undercuts President Bush's justification for invading Iraq.

Bush administration officials have insisted on a link between the Iraqi...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Aug 30, 2006 Ashdown raises money for poor The dinner, which Ashdown paid for out of his own pocket, was a stark contrast to Thursday's luncheon being hosted by his opponent, Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah. For the Hatch luncheon, which will feature a speech by President Bush at the Grand America, about 200 people will shell out $500 apiece,...     Deseret Morning News - Josh Loftin        more...

Aug 30, 2006 Patriot Guard promises to block veteran funeral protest Under the headline "thank God for IEDs," a Web posting by the Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka, Kan., promises a protest today at the funeral of Adam Galvez. The group says God is punishing American troops for the United States' tolerance of homosexuality.
A "Patriot Guard" group of...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Aug 30, 2006 Soldiers die, CEOs prosper As soldiers have died in displaying personal patriotism, the pay gap between soldiers and defense CEOs has exploded. Before 9/11, the gap between CEOs of publicly traded companies and army privates was already a galling 190 to 1. Today, it is 308 to 1. The average army private makes $25,000 a...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Aug 26, 2006 Democrat running for Congress sets tone - Steve Olsen OGDEN -- Steve Olsen, a Democrat from Plain City, says he doesn't have a campaign war chest to match Republican opponent U.S. Rep. Rob Bishop but has conservative values that are...     Standard-Examiner        more...

Aug 20, 2006 Blue man in a red state: Who is Christian Burridge? "I'm part of a movement to build Democratic candidates in red states," Burridge said. "If our party is really going to fight back against this huge, powerful conservative Republican...     Daily Herald        more

Aug 17, 2006 Rep. Christopher Cannon - Lawmaker helped brother's lobby clients Three times this year, a lobbyist sought help from Rep. Christopher Cannon for his clients and got it. The lobbyist was the congressman's brother, Joseph Cannon.

The Utah lawmaker acknowledges helping his brother's...     TED BRIDIS - Associated Press        more...

Aug 14, 2006 Where was Peter? Where was Peter?

As was noted in Sunday's Salt Lake Tribune, Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon was a no-show for Saturday's star-studded groundbreaking for the Real Salt Lake stadium in Sandy. But it's not like he missed anything.

For one thing, he did make it to that...     The Salt Lake Tribune's editorial blog        more...

Aug 14, 2006 GOP plays the angry outsider, all while being firmly in control ''President Bush operates in Washington like the head of a small occupying army of insurgents,'' the pundit Fred Barnes writes in his recent book, Rebel-in-Chief. ''He's an alien in the realm of the governing class, given a green card by voters.''

Let's see: These insurgents today...     Thomas Frank - Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Aug 7, 2006 Utah's veterans policies unfavorable Every couple of weeks, we get together with a fellow veteran to assist him in his battle for Veterans Administration benefits. He is a friend, a fellow Irishman and a fellow veteran. Our conversation lately has been why Utah's political...     The Spectrum        more...

Aug 6, 2006 Deseret News Editorial - Utahns should reject Bush's partisan politics My Utah neighbors are caring, compassionate people. They give more to charity than people in any other state or nation. They volunteer freely when help is needed. But this administration has little compassion � conservative or otherwise � for the needy, for hungry children, for college students...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Aug 1, 2006 60 Years Ago, Vets Took Up Arms in Tenn. On the 60th anniversary of the uprising, Powers and others who can recall the 1946 violence shake their head as state election officials predict only about 35 percent of voters will cast ballots in Thursday's primaries in Tennessee."The lesson is that people ought to take voting a whole lot more...     AP Wire        more...

Jul 28, 2006 Ashdown's site open to suggestions On the Iraq war, Ashdown says he at first thought he and other Americans had to back U.S. troops no matter what and be in the war for the long haul. But "an unknown American" wrote on his site that through the democratic process U.S. troops should leave when Iraqi citizens vote to tell...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Jul 27, 2006 Jim Winder says Sheriff Aaron Kennard politicizes policing. Nonetheless, Kennard claims victory in the defeat of his own initiative, saying his contract-cities finally realized what he�d been telling them all along: The UPD will not be cheaper. �I was so pleasantly surprised that all of them, including the mayors, agreed after they�d looked at the budgets...     City Weekly � July 27, 2006        more...

Jul 23, 2006 Many GOP voters support Matheson U.S. Rep. Jim Matheson has turned many 2nd Congressional District Republicans into political schizophrenics, a new poll shows.

Matheson, a Democrat in a heavily Republican district, holds an overwhelming 64-23 percent lead over his GOP challenger, state Rep. LaVar Christensen, a new...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jul 19, 2006 Dean's List - The Democratic chair plans to fight in every one of the 50 states. A rep named Jay Parmley approaches an oversize easel and flips to a page showing John Kerry's share of the 2004 presidential vote here in Hancock County. "28%" is scrawled in magic marker. "Kind of scary," Parmley says.
But he flips the page to show former Democratic Gov. Ronnie Musgrove's...     U.S. News & World Report        more...

Jul 18, 2006 Davis Democratic Party opening headquarters
The...     Davis County Clipper        more...

Jul 17, 2006 Standard Examiner Editorial - Hatch: Privilege has its perks. We wonder, just out of curiosity: How many people busted for possession of 1.26 grams or less of cocaine in Utah have had Orrin Hatch make a prison-excusing phone call for them? (Can you hear the crickets chirping, too, or is it just us?)
It's good to be connected to a guy like Hatch, who...     Ogden Standard Examiner        more...

Jul 13, 2006 Richard Watson seeks seat in Utah House Watson feels it�s necessary to �hold government accountable with a check on government secrecy and any conflicts of interest that are weakening today�s government,� while also saying lobbyists need to be kept in check while assuring county residents they are the �special interest� group.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jul 12, 2006 Tribune Editorial - Misuse of power: Sen. Hatch had no business helping music producer Hatch's misplaced concern was put in accurate perspective by his Democratic opponent in this year's senatorial race, Pete Ashdown. He pointed out the irony of Hatch interceding for a man who admitted breaking the drug laws of another country but doing nothing to help an Indian national and his...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jul 12, 2006 Daily Herald Editorial - Whose fight is it anyway? In the days building up to Utah's primary election, voters in the 3rd Congressional District were bombarded by campaign calls seeking to drum up the vote for U.S. Rep. Chris Cannon. While pleas from Cannon and his wife are understandable, the calls also included President Bush and First Lady...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jul 12, 2006 Ivins: Republicans feed politics of greed while poor go hungry I don't get it. What's the percentage in keeping the minimum wage at $5.15 an hour? After nine years? This is such an unnecessary and nasty Republican move. Congress has voted seven times to raise its own wages since last the minimum wage budged. Of course, Congress always raises its own salary...     Fort Worth Star-Telegram        more...

Jul 9, 2006 Rolly: Rampton got bi-partisan support for the good of the state Specifically, three key Republicans in the Senate worked with the Democratic governor for the good of the state, setting politics, ideologies and personal ambitions aside.
If you were born after 1980 in Utah, that concept is probably so foreign to you your first instinct would be to...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jul 9, 2006 U.S. reaps what the Army sows Thirty years later, Mr. Rumsfeld refuses to discuss the Tiger Force case. Mr. Cheney declines to discuss much of anything. Mr. Schlesinger conducted one of the see-no-evil investigations at Abu Ghraib. The senior leadership of the Army and the nation prefers to characterize war crimes as the work...     SL Trib        more...

Jul 9, 2006 Tribune Editorial - Paper trail: Lieutenant governor dropped the ball on election recounts Letting each county clerk decide how to proceed does not jibe with HAVA's requirement for statewide uniform standards of what constitutes a vote. Under Utah law, the paper ballot, meaning the audit tape, may be the official ballot     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jul 9, 2006 Rep. Jackie Biskupski - Protect natural resources Utah is a growing state with a variety of natural resources. My urban constituency and our rural citizens need to work together to keep this great state diverse and protected for current and future uses.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jul 8, 2006 Sen Orrin Hatch = Cocaine? No big deal! - That's What Friends in High Places Are For Dallas Austin, 35, who has produced hits for Madonna, Janet Jackson and others, flew home to Atlanta on Wednesday, after being released after midnight on Tuesday from a holding cell in a Dubai jail. Hours earlier Mr. Austin had been sentenced to four years in prison for carrying just...     New York Times        more...

Jul 7, 2006 Sen. Orrin Hatch - A bit too obvious But we also know this was a cynical time-waster designed to place some Democrats on record as having opposed protection for our national symbol, or some such nonsense to be used in negative campaign advertising come autumn.
Hatch has offered his amendment to protect the flag so many times...     Utah Democratic Party        more

Jul 7, 2006 Cannon challengers look ahead to election The outlook isn't quite as dark for Burridge, although the road ahead is still daunting.
He's staked out conservative positions on social issues like abortion and gambling and has roots in the district, which will help, Monson said.
"It sounds like he's the right kind of Democrat to...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jul 6, 2006 Lt. Gov = Confusion clouds Utah vote recount "The Help America Vote Act requires that all states have uniform standards of what constitutes a vote,"
Hall said. "The state should be providing uniform standards - that is their job, and that is what HAVA is about. If counties get to choose how it is done, the state is very likely going...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jul 5, 2006 Eskelsen still sings for school reform Eskelsen still keeps an eye on Utah politics and weighs in on hot-button issues, such as debates over private-school vouchers.
"How can we take the meager funding we give public schools and share it with private schools?" she asks. "Who on what planet thinks this is a good idea?"
...     SL Trib        more...

Jul 4, 2006 James L. Humlicek - Democrat known as a man who always took the high road Funeral services are scheduled for Friday for James L. Humlicek, a former Democratic national committeeman from Utah who died at his Cottonwood Heights home Saturday of a heart ailment. He was 60. Humlicek served two terms as national committeeman and a member of the Democratic National...     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Jul 3, 2006 Ashdown using Net in bid to foil Hatch Ashdown believes the Internet will reduce the built-in advantages that incumbents like Hatch now enjoy.
"What I hope is the Internet will negate the need for the amount of money that is spent marketing a candidate - that this campaign will demonstrate a way that other people can run for...     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Jul 2, 2006 Corroon gets high marks in new poll ... Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon resonates with residents. And it may be buoyed by his stand on public funds for a Sandy soccer stadium.
"He's a man of works, not words," says Holladay resident Richard Grider. "He wants to do what the people want."     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Jun 27, 2006 Senator chatises party for failing to understand power of faith At the same time, he said, "Secularists are wrong when they ask believers to leave their religion at the door before entering the public square."

As a result, "I think we make a mistake when we fail to acknowledge the power of faith in the lives of the American people and join a...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 26, 2006 Utah primaries much more than just GOP thing Democrats are thoughtful voters, and education, especially, is an important, substantive issue that motivates us to go to the polls. Over the last few years, education has topped the list of issues that a majority of Utahns worry is not being taken seriously by government. Year after year, voter...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Jun 26, 2006 Celebrate troops success In fact, forethought of what would await the Triple Deuce, mentally and emotionally, was also heavily considered with the unanimous passage of House Bill 407, Counseling for Families of Veterans. The mandate was spearheaded by two Iron County Democrats - Mark Hollingshead and Larry Daniel -...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 23, 2006 Poor decision by Senate GOP Conservatives are fond of saying they want government to run more like a private business, and with good reason. Businesses deliver what people want in an efficient and cost-effective manner, and they understand what is needed in order for commerce to flow optimally.     Deseret Morning News editorial        more...

Jun 23, 2006 Utahns like Huntsman, not Legislature Some lawmakers, moderate Republicans like Mascaro, and Democrats like Holladay Rep. Pat Jones, tried to separate themselves from their conservative colleagues. They bristle at polls that ask general questions about the Legislature as a whole.
"We hope the public understands there are some...     By Matt Canham - The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Jun 22, 2006 Scenes from a war � On Friday night, three young U.S. soldiers -- a Latino kid and two small-town white kids -- were left to guard a vehicle checkpoint on a canal bridge in the heart of the Sunni-dominated "triangle of death" south of Baghdad. Seven masked insurgents surrounded them, killed one and took the other...     St. Louis Post-Dispatch        more...

Jun 21, 2006 Rahm nixes second term �We�re in the middle of our campaign to explain the 50-state strategy and answer questions about its purpose,� Dean told backers. He referred to a letter from Utah Democratic Party Chairman Wayne Holland Jr. calling the approach the �future of our party here in Utah.�

��Win for...     The Hill        more...

Jun 20, 2006 Democrats Look to Keep Minimum Wage on Table The minority party fired the first shot last week, when the House Appropriations Committee broke with its Republican leadership and approved a $2.10-an-hour increase as part of a spending bill for labor, health and education programs. Speaker Dennis Hastert responded by putting the measure on...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 19, 2006 Utah GOP - A House in Violent Disarray He said he believes party leaders simply don't like him because he has often made accusations of rules violations and has run against party leaders like state party chairman Joe Cannon. The county party has a history of infighting, and Chamberlain is part of a group regularly at odds...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 18, 2006 Tribune Editorial - Temporary filling: Dental donations a bridge, not a solution But Wednesday's celebration was an inappropriately jolly affair, made downright distasteful by the extreme chutzpah displayed by House Speaker Greg Curtis and Senate President John Valentine, who had come to share the moment.
(Chutzpah: The ability to murder both of one's own parents...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 16, 2006 Party leaders cross-examined at Boys State debate During the debate, the teens asked for each party's stance on gay marriage.
Miller said, "In the Democratic party, there are those who believe that the most important value is we value each other."
    Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 14, 2006 House lawmakers accept $3,300 pay hike Like last year, Matheson led a quixotic drive to block the raise. He was the only member to speak on the topic. "I do not think that it is appropriate to let this bill go through without an up or down vote on whether or not Congress should have an increase in its own pay," Matheson said....     Pioneer Press - St. Paul        more...

Jun 14, 2006 Congress receives 2% pay raise "We continue to swim in a pool of red ink," Matheson said on the House floor Tuesday. "I don't think it's appropriate to have this . . . raise go through without an up or down vote."     Thomas Burr        more...

Jun 14, 2006 Matheson's effort to block raises is foiled "Here we are in a circumstance where we continue to swim in a lake of red ink," Matheson said, referring to the $8 trillion deficit and the House's approval of a $94 billion supplemental spending bill earlier on Tuesday.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 14, 2006 Remembering the Battle of Belleau Wood Remembering the Battle of Belleau Wood May 28, 2006; Submitted on: 06/08/2006 02:33:44 PM ; Story ID#: 200668143344 By Staff Sgt. Will Price , Marine Barracks 8th & I The Battle of Belleau Wood was commemorated by the United States Marine Corps... Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 11, 2006 Keillor: Note to Republicans: The party's over You might not have always liked Republicans, but you could count on them to manage the bank. They might be lousy tippers, act snooty, talk through their noses, wear spats and splash mud on you as they race their Pierce-Arrows through the village, but you knew they could do the math. To see them...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 10, 2006 Dems pamper neglected reds Holland said the DNC's resources have already allowed the party to reach rural parts of the state where it has been absent for years, it has revived atrophied local party organizations and recruited a record number of candidates.
Specifically, Holland cites progress in building the...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 9, 2006 BYU professor dies in car accident This past year, he was asked by several chairs in government to run for a Democratic chair in congress, but Snow always turned them down.
"We asked him to run for congress, but his missionary work and responsibilities within the church and in his family have always taken priority," Miller...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 8, 2006 3 Utah colleges mourning the loss of R.J. Snow Snow's university and church positions were evidence of his ability to handle difficult situations and "get things done in a peaceful and harmonious way," said Ted Wilson, who followed Snow as director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics. "Every time the Mormon Church had a sticky...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 8, 2006 Former BYU vice-president killed in accident PROVO � R.J. Snow, a former vice-president at both Brigham Young University and University of Utah, died Tuesday night in a car accident near his Provo home.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 8, 2006 Former BYU vice-president killed in accident PROVO � R.J. Snow, a former vice-president at both Brigham Young University and University of Utah, died Tuesday night in a car accident near his Provo home.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 8, 2006 BYU professor R.J. Snow dies in car accident Utah Democratic Chair Wayne Holland said Snow "had the unique ability to make contact and have a positive effect on the lives of his students, his missionaries and his colleagues. He had an indefinable quality that encouraged both friend and acquaintances to higher and higher levels of achievement."     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jun 4, 2006 LDS authority and gay marriage Ultimately, any appeal to religious authority to create law is misplaced. Our Founding Fathers were inspired by their study of history to separate constitutional authority from religious belief, recognizing as they did the potential for tyranny in unchecked religious...     Jeffrey Nielsen        more...

Jun 1, 2006 Eye on the future Todd Taylor, longtime executive director of the Democratic Party in Utah, said the national party's cash infusion has doubled his staff. There has been record attendance at local, county and state meetings, owing to better organization and communications, he said.     Las Vegas Sun        more...

Jun 1, 2006 BYU grad makes Congress run Burridge, a BYU law school alum and the proud father of two girls, said hope for his daughters' futures inspired his political aspirations. Recent frustration with national politics only strengthened his resolve.
"I didn't want to have to explain to my kids 15 years later why I didn't get...     BYU News        more...

May 31, 2006 Rep. Carol Spackman Moss vows to revive bill on drug overdoses Moss said the tragic deaths last year of Amelia Sorich, 18, and Stephen James Sill, 27, underscore the need to do something. Both young people were with friends when they died of drug overdoses and no one called for help.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

May 30, 2006 Congress spending binge adds to red ink Matheson and other so-called Blue Dog Democrats in Congress support passing a balanced budget amendment, requiring any new government spending to be offset by cuts elsewhere or increased revenue and demanding better accountability from departments.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

May 30, 2006 Congress spending binge adds to red ink Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah, has voted against each Republican budget and, consequently, each debt limit increase, although they have typically been near-party-line votes. "I refuse to write these blank checks for hundreds of billions of dollars" without any discussion on how to wean the...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

May 28, 2006 Corroon's fiscal sense wins hearts Newcomer's fiscal sense wins hearts S.L. County mayor: The RSL stadium denial puts the low-key leader in the limelight By Derek P. Jensen The Salt Lake Tribune --> Salt... Salt Lake Tribune        more...

May 28, 2006 With Matheson and Corroon, a new era is emerging Democratic Party Chairman Wayne Holland Jr. recruited both Corroon and Matheson to persuade individual Democratic candidates to run for office this year. "It was that kind of leadership we needed," Holland says.     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

May 27, 2006 Fox applauded; GOP stiffs Medicaid Until the increases appear to level off, Goodfellow said, the Republicans will not begin to pick up the slack, even when the money exists to do so.
"There are people in the legislature that say let's ... just put it on hold and see what the federal government is going to do," he...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

May 27, 2006 Teachers stir tempest in a T-shirt Alli Martin, a history teacher at Sandy's Alta High School, said she was disturbed by Newbold's rule against using school time "to promote personal, political agendas" without clarifying what that means.
"If believing I am doing a good job is a political agenda [and one my boss disagrees...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

May 26, 2006 Lawmakers park $$ far away from poor You see, several years ago legislators passed a law that says the Legislature automatically gets any pay raise suggested by the Legislative Compensation Commission unless a bill is passed lowering or denying those raises. And since no bill was passed in the 2006 Legislature doing either,...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

May 26, 2006 Special session fought over 'technical' details Had the Senate attempted to change the implementation date, House leaders threatened to simply adjourn, a concern because it would have left the small retailers in a bind. Eventually, the Senate passed the bill without amendment, albeit very grudgingly.     Utah Democratic Party        more

May 26, 2006 Huntsman defends dental-care request He had hoped for enough votes for dental proposal     Utah Democratic Party        more

May 26, 2006 House strikes back at governor Revenge? Angry at a PR loss, lawmakers demand a special session on taxes     Utah Democratic Party        more...

May 26, 2006 Excuses, excuses: Leaving poor without dental benefits is inexcusable Republican legislators' refusal seems a petulant reaction to the governor's determined effort to override their compassionless general-session decision to let the benefits lapse.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

May 25, 2006 Chris Cannon's Chief of Staff obstructing justice trial begins Safavian served as Cannon's chief of staff from January 2001 to May 2002, when he left to take the GSA post.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

May 24, 2006 Guv puts [Republican] leaders in touchy position To not vote for the funds would be a "let them eat cake" action, says Todd Taylor, executive director of the Utah Democratic Party.
"Apparently, Marie Antoinette and (Utah House Speaker) Greg Curtis don't care about poor, disabled people's teeth," Taylor said.     Deseret News        more...

May 23, 2006 Clinton fellow from BYU - Professor appointed So forgive friends of Provoan Byron Daynes if they tease the Brigham Young University political science professor about his appointment as a William J. Clinton Distinguished Fellow by the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service.
"We can't even say that name at BYU,"...     Deseret News        more...

May 9, 2006 Mullen: Are you a demo and don't know it? Olsen poses that average Utahns would favor honesty in how the federal government can keep running up a near-bottomless deficit while still promising tax cuts. He wades into the abortion quagmire, urging people who oppose Roe v. Wade to start embracing access to health care, job training, child...     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

May 7, 2006 Democrats applaud LDS stance on waste A day after the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a statement opposing storage of nuclear waste in Utah, state Democratic Party chairman Wayne Holland thanked the church leaders in a prepared statement. The church opinion was a "welcome addition to the...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

May 1, 2006 Can Techie Oust Orrin Hatch? This has all the makings of a classic Old West showdown between Hatch -- seemingly beholden to the entertainment companies who contribute to his campaigns -- and...     Wired News        more...

Apr 30, 2006 Democrats putting more names on 2006 ballot There are four Democrats running for office in Iron County. Michael Crouch is running for sheriff, Josh Miller is running for county commission, Larry Daniel is running for House of Representatives District 72 and Emily Hollingshead is running for Senate District 28.     ecarlile@thespectrum.com        more...

Apr 30, 2006 Dems party in Dixie The party's theme is "strength through diversity," and Barbara VanLandingham, president of the Southern Utah Democrats, said members do all they can to make a difference, including providing monthly meals to Dixie Care and Share, caring for environmental issues, addressing issues that effect the...     scoots@thespectrum.com        more...

Apr 30, 2006 Southern Utah's Democrats rally in Dixie Sen. Orrin Hatch's challenger, Pete Ashdown, said the senator's recent comments about a conventional explosion test planned for the Nevada desert show he is out of touch with Utah voters.
"Is there any doubt that if Sen. Hatch weren't running for re-election he would be asleep at the...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Apr 27, 2006 Democrats motivated for brighter future �It�s about reminding people of the past,� Rob Miller continued. �Cal Rampton (former governor) was ignored three times in Davis County, and then became the most popular politician ever,� he said of the Bountiful native. �As Saturday showed, people are looking for good administration, for good...     The Clipper        more...

Apr 27, 2006 Davis County Commission hopefuls woo chamber Rob Miller, vice-chair of the Utah Democratic Party, was the first non-Republican to speak. �I believe in the two-party system, but we don�t have that here in Davis County,� he said. �I want to bring that back. It encourages debate and that brings better laws and government. He also...     The Clipper        more

Apr 27, 2006 Hatch, Bennett: Divert war money WASHINGTON - Sens. Orrin Hatch and Bob Bennett voted with their colleagues ... the Senate voted 59-39 on Wednesday to cut about $2 billion from ... Iraq ...
"We all agree it is vital that we secure our border, but Democrats believe we shouldn't do it on the backs of our troops," Reid...     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Apr 23, 2006 Gay congressman optimistic Frank speaks in S.L. to Utah Stonewall Demos caucus
Frank, the nation's only openly gay congressman, told a gathering of Utah Stonewall Democrats on Friday that he's equally optimistic about the future for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender rights.
In fact, Frank said, if you'd...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Apr 23, 2006 Convention Results: And the Nominees Are ... Democratic Salt Lake County Convention
Weber County Democratic Convention     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Apr 23, 2006 Party conventions hint at possible change in Legislature Romero pledged to walk door-to-door to keep Hale's seat in Democratic hands. He will face Republican Bryce Jolley, a former Salt Lake City councilman, in November. Hale represented the district for eight years. Before her, Republican Salt Lake City Councilman Dave Buhler held the seat.
...     The Daily Herald        more...

Apr 17, 2006 Emery County Democrats dinner The keynote speaker was Dennis Dooley, from the Carbon County Democrats. He called the subject of his talk Liberalism, God and Ice Cream. He said: �If you are a Democrat you will be labeled as a liberal. Somehow a nice sweet word like liberal has become synonymous with �minion of Satan�. Now come...     Emery County Progress        more...

Apr 17, 2006 E-Mails Tie chief of staff to Rep. Chris Cannon (R-Utah), to Abramoff In April 2002, when Safavian was chief of staff to Rep. Chris Cannon (R-Utah), he and Abramoff exchanged e-mails about Safavian's interest in working for Abramoff's law firm, Greenberg Traurig. Then, on April 17, Safavian e-mailed: "you and I need to talk. I was just offered the chief of staff...     Washington Post        more...

Apr 16, 2006 For worldly mayor, S.L. County is an ethnic festival, model U.N. Peter Corroon has had 26 separate stamps in his passports, is nearly fluent in two foreign languages, dabbles in Italian and has cut his professional teeth in New York, San Francisco and Washington, D.C.     Salt Lake Trib        more...

Apr 13, 2006 Bush's denial of plans for Iran hit wrong chord before Test Site blast At least one congressman is registering concern over the test. Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah, said in a letter to the Defense Threat Reduction Agency that he fears that the test is "being conducted in order to further misguided attempts to build new low-yield nuclear devices."
The June 2...     Las Vegas Sun        more...

Apr 12, 2006 Cannon's motives questioned on fighting Net gambling ban It is a long-held position for Cannon, although his motives have been questioned by those who point to political contributions to Cannon and a former chief of staff who lobbied for the Internet gambling industry.     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Apr 12, 2006 Cannon Again Opposes Internet Gambling Bill Cannon's former chief of staff, David Safavian, who also lobbied for online gambling interests before joining Cannon's staff, has been charged with misleading investigators probing a trip to Scotland he took with Abramoff after he left Cannon's office and went to work at the General Services...     KSL        more...

Apr 11, 2006 Records in N.H. Election Phone Jamming case show White House ties Democratic National Committee spokesman Damien LaVera said Monday: "With every development in this case, there are new questions about the extent to which key national Republicans had knowledge of or were involved in a criminal scheme to keep New Hampshire voters from getting to the polls. The...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Apr 9, 2006 Matheson pursues: DTRA Spokeswoman says reference to 'nuclear weapons' in budget document was a goof Salt Lake Tribune WASHINGTON - Utah Rep. Jim Matheson is asking the Defense Department for assurances that a massive explosion planned at the Nevada Test Site is not meant "to further misguided attempts to build new low-yield nuclear devices."
"I am understandably worried that this...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Apr 8, 2006 Senate candidate campaigns in motor home "It does the job and gets me around," Ashdown said. "But it would be nice to have a new model out there."
Hatch was first elected in 1976, ousting Sen. Frank Moss, in part because he claimed Moss had served too long. Hatch's opponents have regularly criticized his long stay in Washington.     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Apr 8, 2006 Groundbreaking for Idaho temple TWIN FALLS, Idaho � Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Presidency of the Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will preside at groundbreaking services for the Twin Falls Idaho Temple on Saturday.     Deseret Morning News        more...

Apr 8, 2006 Fund birth defect network Deseret Morning News editorial
The Utah Legislature left some important work on the table when it adjourned its General Session in early March. It failed to fund the Utah Birth Defect Network, which monitors the occurrence of birth defects in the state and develops prevention and...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Apr 7, 2006 Flower shower thanks reporter WASHINGTON - Veteran White House reporter Helen Thomas was "thrilled and very honored" recently when she found some 1,200 roses of every shade filling her Washington, D.C., office.     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Apr 7, 2006 Judge blasts government secrecy "I've always been troubled to the extent which our government keeps things secret from the America people," U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema said, granting the families' request after a hearing.
"It is amazing what some agencies think is secret," Brinkema added. "As a culture, we need to...     CNN        more...

Apr 6, 2006 Report: Bush Authorized CIA Leak Vice President Dick Cheney's former top aide told prosecutors President Bush authorized the leak of sensitive intelligence information about Iraq, according to court papers filed by prosecutors in the CIA leak case.     The Associated Press        more...

Apr 2, 2006 OP/ED - We need to move beyond the politics of fear - Pat Shea In the depths of the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt told the American people that "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself." Recently, The Tribune's political cartoonist, Pat Bagley, made the point with a cartoon showing Roosevelt and his historic words next to the...     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Apr 2, 2006 Revolt brewing among southern Utah Republicans? And in 1990, Democrat Bill Orton was elected to Congress in Utah's 3rd District, considered at the time the most Republican congressional district in the nation. That occurred because Republican Karl Snow's campaign ran an 11th hour ad making fun of the fact Orton was not married and...     Paul Rolly        more...

Mar 31, 2006 After grilling Bush, Helen Thomas gets thousands of flowers The campaign was the brainchild of Clarity Sanderson, a 31-year-old Democratic activist from Sandy, Utah, a suburb of Salt Lake City, who was motivated by the sharp exchange between Thomas and Bush, and by an op-ed article Thomas wrote about the exchange in the Salt Lake Tribune.     The Hill        more...

Mar 29, 2006 Machine Woes Slow Vote-Counting in Illinois CHICAGO, March 22 -- Election officials here resumed counting ballots Wednesday after problems with new electronic voting machines around Cook County forced them to halt the count in a key local race in Tuesday's primary that also had voters casting ballots for governor and Congress.     Washington Post        more...

Mar 24, 2006 Another Republican Scandal - Iron County The perceived collusion between Stowell, a member of the Iron County Commission, and Hatch, who has served as District 28's representative in the senate since 2002, has infuriated Republicans and Democrats alike. One Republican precinct in Cedar City collected signatures from outraged...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 24, 2006 Some GOP flee from Bush, but not his money Even as some Republicans are becoming increasingly defiant on a range of issues, they're still lining up dutifully for the president's campaign dollars. "I would be shocked if a legitimate Republican candidate, not just a fringe candidate, who got word that the president was coming to do a...     Associated Press        more...

Mar 23, 2006 Demos need likability, Montana governor says "I was just in the right place at the right time," said Schweitzer, who had never been elected to a political seat before taking office in 2005. His administration has already eliminated a tax that hurt small-business owners, launched a new scholarship program for public higher...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 22, 2006 Utah County Democratic Caucuses In Orem, which has the largest Democratic caucus in the county, organizers had brought only three sign-in sheets and had to use notebook paper when about 110 people showed up, 80 of whom signed in. Organizers in south and north Utah County also reported turnouts twice what was expected.     The Daily Herald        more...

Mar 22, 2006 Religious blues?: Montana governor says Democrats can win the Christian vote Were Jesus to file for public office, he would run on the Democratic ticket, said the governor of Montana. Gov. Brian Schweitzer, a popular, liberal politician in one of the most conservative states in the union, was on campus Tuesday morning, addressing ways for Utah Democrats to follow his...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 19, 2006 Democrats file for office in strong numbers And, get this, the Democrats have a candidate in 79 of 95 state legislative races. "Democrats across Utah are more energized and more focused than we've seen in recent years," said Wayne Holland Jr., chairman of the state Democratic party. "The Democratic party has a record number of...     The Spectrum        more...

Mar 15, 2006 Letter by LDS leaders cheers Utah Democrats "The Democratic Party, like The Church of Jesus Christ, believes there is a clear responsibility for society to care for the poor, help working families in their challenges of raising children and providing a decent income for them, and reach out to those in society who are often left out,"     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 15, 2006 Pete Ashdown - Hatch challenger worth getting to know Here's an example: Less than two minutes into his address, Ashdown labeled members of Congress as "silver-spooners" who simply have the money to buy a seat in Washington. "Our Congress is the best Congress money can buy," Ashdown said. "I'd like to see our best and brightest go back to...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 14, 2006 Unease Among Utah Republicans The Republican Party is feeling some election year unease. Nationally, some republicans are trying to distance themselves from President Bush. But, locally the Republican Party has some different challenges, including finding candidates that the whole party can get behind.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 14, 2006 LDS Church Statement Has Democrats Talking Frank Pignanelli, Deseret Morning News: "I think this is huge. It's good news for democrats. It's good news for Utahns. It's actually very good for republicans too, because what it says is that for both major political parties, there's something there for all members of the LDS faith."     KSL TV        more...

Mar 13, 2006 Hatch should quit using flag as a re-election tool For his part, Hatch chooses to ignore the fact that his amendment would, in the name of this cherished symbol, suppress the most fundamental of all American values, freedom of expression. Instead of using the flag as a re-election tool, he should be more devoted to guarding the ideals it stands for.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 13, 2006 Top Bush Aide Arrested The charges also are another blow for the president and the GOP: Allen is the third member of the administration to face criminal charges. I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, former chief of staff to Vice President Dick Cheney, has been indicted on charges related to the leaked identity of a CIA officer....     Los Angeles Times        more...

Mar 11, 2006 Democratic Davids file to take on GOP Goliaths "It's important for people in Utah to know they have a choice," said Steve Olsen, of Plain City, who is challenging U.S. Rep. Rob Bishop in Utah's 1st Congressional District. "I'm running as a Democrat and I make no apologies for that."     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 10, 2006 3 rookies to challenge House, Senate incumbents Two of the three, Steve Olsen and Christian Burridge, formally announced their candidacies at the state Capitol on Friday when they filed, respectively, for the 1st and 3rd U.S. House districts, currently held by GOP Reps. Rob Bishop and Chris Cannon. The third political newcomer, Pete...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Mar 6, 2006 Treasury Secretary John Snow asks Congress to increase the $8.2 trillion deficit cap to keep the federal government from running out of money by the end of this month Treasury Secretary John Snow notified Congress on Monday that the administration has now taken "all prudent and legal actions," including tapping certain government retirement funds, to keep from hitting the $8.2 trillion national debt limit. In a letter to Congress, Snow urged lawmakers to...     AP        more...

Mar 4, 2006 Cities finding getting wired pricey, passe Google and Earthlink announced last week they are teaming up to offer the entire city of San Francisco a free wireless network. The city will consider this along with several other proposals, but it's hard to see why anyone would turn down free. Free is good.     By Jay Evensen - Deseret News        more...

Feb 27, 2006 Breaking: House spikes evolution disclaimer bill The Utah House of Representatives voted 46-28 to kill SB96, which cast doubt on the teaching of evolution. "There are a number of influential legislators who believe you evolved from an ape. I didn't," said Sen. Chris Buttars, R-West Jordan, who sponsored the bill. He said it was...     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Feb 26, 2006 Utah's Democratic legislators deserve our appreciation Being a Democrat in Utah's Legislature is probably like being a member of the Jamaican bobsled team: The odds are huge against you and no one can imagine why you're there. For being hopeless, the Jamaicans got a heartwarming movie made about them - Utah's Democratic legislators probably won't.     Barb Guy - Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Feb 25, 2006 Ovations, not jeers, for hate-crimes bill The warm atmosphere of praise in the House of Representatives last Thursday was a departure from past debates, as longtime sponsor Rep. David Litvack, D-Salt Lake, was given a standing ovation after a 67-5 vote for a substitute version of HB90.     Deseret Morning News        more...

Feb 24, 2006 Governor proposes administrative limits on payday lenders - Not Our Governor, though SANTA FE (AP) - Gov. Bill Richardson is moving administratively to impose restrictions on payday lenders after a failed attempted to get the Legislature to limit their lending practices.     Associated Press        more...

Feb 24, 2006 Matheson addresses energy and transportation reforms He talked about the continued importance of transportation issues, especially in a state growing as quickly as Utah. "In the 21st century global economy, bridges and roads are still important. The ability to move goods around still matters a lot," Matheson said. He added, "I'll tell you the tough...     Utah Democratic Party

Feb 24, 2006 Matheson addresses issues of immigration, security of ports Matheson is also working on a revision of the Montgomery G.I. bill that would require 24 months of service in a five-year period instead of 24 months of consecutive service for military personnel to qualify for benefits. Matheson is also working on age verification software for Internet porn sites.     The Spectrum.        more...

Feb 23, 2006 Analyst: Colorado part of key battleground in 2008 So, presidential candidates from both parties "are going to have to troop through Denver and Albuquerque and Salt Lake and Phoenix and Las Vegas in a way that they haven�t in the past," Stratton said. This will thrust largely ignored Western issues � land use, water needs and the environment �...     Rocky Mountain News        more...

Feb 22, 2006 Hatch puts spin on 'brainless' comment "Senator Hatch, a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, no less, stood in front of a crowd of people and made a statement, a statement that is just not true, in what seems to be an attempt to mislead and misinform the people of Utah," Holland said in a statement. "This is not leadership....     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 21, 2006 Hate crimes bill deters haters from committing crimes We the people will stand for something this day. We the people will stand for righteousness, for we know that until it comes, we will not prosper in this land. We the people, who believe that all men were created equal, will not rest until there is justice for all. We the people will not tolerate...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 21, 2006 Real Stadium: County should not be blackmailed into support Because the hotel tax revenue belongs to the county, Mayor Peter Corroon and his County Council would have to agree to such a deal. So far, county officials aren't sure that's a good idea. And the mostly downtown Salt Lake City hoteliers, who collect the tax, know it isn't. But because...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 20, 2006 Duras cr�ticas de Howard Dean a Bush en Miami - El Nuevo Herald La administraci�n del presidente George W. Bush es c�mplice en el giro a la izquierda visto en Am�rica Latina por su falta de inter�s en la regi�n, a cuyos inmigrantes que viven ilegales en Estados Unidos los republicanos quieren convertir en los ''chivos expiatorios'' de las pr�ximas elecciones...     El Nuevo Herald        more...

Feb 19, 2006 The LDS Church, extremism and our leadership vacuum During the waning months of Eisenhower's presidency, I was in Washington, D.C., working for Sen. Frank Church during the day, pursuing a graduate degree at night and campaigning for JFK against Nixon on Saturdays. Sundays, I presided over the Sunday school in the LDS Washington Ward,...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 19, 2006 Democrats fight 'gerrymandering' on the Hill The House Government Operations Committee this week shot down a bill that requires two-thirds of Utah's House of Representatives and Senate vote to approve redistricting plans before lawmakers can change political boundaries.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 17, 2006 Shame on rude, petty Utah lawmakers - By Bob Bernick Jr. At the end of his complaining, Stephenson bemoaned the fact that � because of the irresponsible and unethical media � more good people don't want to run for office. "In a Senate district of 80,000 people there should be 10 or 12 good people" file to run each election. He's right. The...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 16, 2006 Preparing for pandemic: know how to bury your dead When burying a body in the backyard, don't put it too close to the septic system. That was one piece of advice offered on Wednesday to a business conference on preparing for a potentially lethal bird flu andemic.     Reuters        more...

Feb 14, 2006 Republicans Shoot Down Reform Sandy Peck, from the Utah League of Women Voters, told lawmakers any reform would help dispel the notion that lawmakers are rigging their re-elections. "It's really a conflict of interest to leave [redistricting] to the legislature. It's expecting a lot for the legislature not to give an...     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Feb 14, 2006 Homophobia Kills 2 Year Old Girl Over the next three months, the women took Sarah to the zoo and on long walks in the neighborhood, where the little girl waved at strangers. Sometimes they would stay up at night just watching Sarah sleep. Then it all changed. On a Monday afternoon last April, the couple was told to pack up...     LA Times        more...

Feb 13, 2006 Utah Legislature: it's all about money Don't laugh. It happened once before. About a decade ago, state legislators spent hundreds of thousands of dollars to divvy up and mail rebate checks to taxpayers after cheerfully announcing a budget surplus. Not long after, though, the same legislators, presumably re-elected on the basis of...     Park Record        more...

Feb 10, 2006 Ex-CIA official: Bush administration misused Iraq intelligence (CNN) -- The Bush administration disregarded the expertise of the intelligence community, politicized the intelligence process and used unrepresentative data in making the case for war, a former CIA senior analyst alleged.     CNN        more...

Feb 9, 2006 Cheney 'Authorized' Libby to Leak Classified Information Vice President Dick Cheney's former chief of staff, I. Lewis (Scooter) Libby, testified to a federal grand jury that he had been "authorized" by Cheney and other White House "superiors" in the summer of 2003 to disclose classified information to journalists to defend the Bush administration's use...     National Journal        more...

Feb 8, 2006 FOLLOW UP - Army blasted over soldier�s body armor Sen. Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va., sent a letter to Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld Tuesday, demanding that the Army refund Rebrook�s money immediately. �I was outraged this morning when I read the story about what happened to Eddie,� said Rockefeller, who nominated Rebrook for admission to the...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 7, 2006 Army demanded $700 from wounded Soldier The last time 1st Lt. William �Eddie� Rebrook IV saw his body armor, he was lying on a stretcher in Iraq, his arm shattered and covered in blood. A field medic tied a tourniquet around Rebrook�s right arm to stanch the bleeding from shrapnel wounds. Soldiers yanked off his blood-soaked body...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 5, 2006 Legislature tries to grab more power - By Glen Warchol Proposed laws: Several bills being considered give state lawmakers more say - Then why is the Legislature awash in bills aimed at taking political power from citizens, cities, school boards, the courts, the governor and even U.S. senators and concentrating it on the Hill? It's enough to...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 5, 2006 Mansell's message: Give developers what they want, or else - Rolly ...it doesn't matter if Mansell's bills and activities in the Senate create a public outcry. There is no consequence. Mansell will be re-elected for as long as he wants. He is a Republican in a district that will always elect Republicans and he has developed powerful connections in the Sandy...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 4, 2006 The only surplus Utah has is a surplus of needs Does Utah have a surplus of revenue? Only the misinformed can believe such a preposterous notion. Does Utah have a surplus of needs? Only the uninformed can believe otherwise.     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 3, 2006 Demos wishing on a star He returned in 2004 from South Africa, where he served as an LDS mission president in Durban, with added responsibility for missionary work in Swaziland. He is analyzing the Utah political scene after his three-year absence. Roberts twice earned All-WAC honors as a defensive back for BYU head...     Deseret News        more...

Feb 3, 2006 Demos accuse governor of stalling Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. has strategically backed down on proposals to assist the state's working poor and small businesses struggling to pay rising health care costs, the Utah Democratic Party has charged. In a recent news release, the party accuses Huntsman of advocating a wait-and-see...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 1, 2006 Appalling behavior This immature behavior is appalling. It does not matter whether or not these representatives voted for the congressman, or how they feel about his politics. Their behavior was disrespectful of a member of the United States House of Representatives. You would think that a group of people so...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 1, 2006 Millard sheriff to end 27 years as lawman Phillips' reign as sheriff of one of Utah's largest counties has not been without controversies and contradictions. A Democrat in a largely Republican state, Phillips managed to get elected seven times. A conservative on many issues, Phillips said he ran as a Democrat, "if for no other reason...     Deseret News        more...

Feb 1, 2006 S. Utahns reflect on Bush's speech On the other side of the political spectrum, local Democratic Party leaders joined with the state party chairman Wayne Holland to listen to the speech at the Painted Pony restaurant in St. George. Cyril Noble, the Washington County Democratic Party chairman, said he didn't hear anything new in...     The Spectrum        more...

Feb 1, 2006 GRAMA bills concern House Demos, media House Democrats joined media outlets in expressing concern over a group of bills proposing proposed changes to the Government Records and Management Act. "The most important function for a working democracy is for transparency in government decision-making," Minority Leader Ralph Becker,...     Deseret News        more...

Jan 26, 2006 Senator to modify bill's 'soft repeal' of 17th Meanwhile Wednesday, Wayne Holland, chairman of the state Democratic Party, said of Stephenson and other GOP co-sponsors of SB156: "We have serious concerns about how far Republican lawmakers will go in their quest for total control of government." GOP legislators don't need SB156, he...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Jan 19, 2006 Democrats Take on Ethics Reform Democrats have at least eight bills that would encourage ore disclosure and openness. They include stricter disclosure of campaign contributions, declaring conflict of interest, and, once again this year, calling for an outright ban on lobbyist gifts to elected officials.     KSL        more...

Jan 19, 2006 Democrats propose multiple ethics bills The Democrats' petition says that the Republican Party has built a system in Utah where money buys the right to govern. The effort is part of a broader reform platform being released by Democrats nationwide, said state Democratic Party Chairman WayneHolland.     Associated Press        more...

Jan 18, 2006 DEMOCRATIC RESPONSE TO THE STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS 2006 is a unique year for Utah. This year, more than any in the last several decades, has provided the ability for the State Government to address and resolve many of the important issues that are a priority for the people of Utah    more...

Jan 13, 2006 Reassess travel risks, Matheson says The Utah Democratic congressman on Thursday stressed the need for a risk assessment to help the country set priorities in dealing with potential airline security troubles, saying that "in my opinion, we kind of have a skewed sense of where we're putting our resources."    more...

Jan 13, 2006 Babka will become chief of S. Salt Lake police today Babka is an unabashed fan of community policing, a philosophy he plans to implement broadly during his tenure as chief for the 22,000-resident city under newly elected Mayor Bob Gray. "I want to lower the crime rate - which we did before through community policing," Babka said, referring to...    more...

Jan 13, 2006 Rogue lobbyist had ties to Utah Envirocare: Salt Lake Tribune Envirocare of Utah mounted a $4 million Washington lobbying effort in recent years and used Jack Abramoff's former firm as part of it. Preston Gates Ellis & Rouvelas Meeds was one of 14 firms the Utah radioactive and hazardous waste company hired to push for contracts,...     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Jan 13, 2006 Babka is now police chief After holding up a shirt that said, "Beau knows South Salt Lake," Eric Jensen, a detective and president of the Fraternal Order of the Police, gave his confirmation of Babka on behalf of the police department. "He's been in the trenches, he's been a supervisor and he's long been a friend of...    more...

Jan 13, 2006 Demo taking belt law for another spin "I just think that if there is one thing we can do to make a difference, using safety belts is the single most effective means of reducing injuries in motor vehicle crashes," said Hale, a Democrat.    more...

Jan 12, 2006 Reid stops in Utah during 'red state tour' The contributions from Native American tribes, Reid said, were made to him because he is a member of the Senate's Indian affairs committee and has done more to help Nevada's tribes than any other member of that state's congressional delegation � ever.    more...

Jan 4, 2006 Cannon to refund Abramoff donation Utah Democrats have been calling on Cannon for months to return contributions from Abramoff and a wide swath of Abramoff's clients and associates... But Cannon won't be refunding $7,000 in contributions from Indian tribes that employed Abramoff. �There's just no reason to do that,� Hunter said.    more...

Jan 3, 2006 Babka is front-runner for S. Salt Lake chief Gray, who takes his oath of office today, plans Garner's firing as one of In a phone interview Monday, Gray named Babka, now a captain in the department, as a strong candidate to fill Garner's shoes, at least on an interim basis. Babka is also on Gray's short list as his permanent pick for...     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Jan 3, 2006 Conflict-of-interest bill stalls Rep. Ross Romero, D-Salt Lake, the sponsor of the bill, said that verbally identifying the conflicts would help clarify individual legislators' positions on an issue. While those conflicts are available in the disclosure forms, it is impossible to track every conflict over the course of a...    more...

Jan 3, 2006 Lawmakers fear link to Abramoff If a lawmaker is not personally tied to any possible illegal activity involving Abramoff, then giving the money back could burnish his or her image with voters, Malbin said. But if, as many political analysts suspect, some senators or House members are linked to Abramoff and potentially...    more...

Jan 3, 2006 Top 12 media myths and falsehoods on the Bush administration's spying scandal The top 12 myths and falsehoods promoted by the media on President Bush's spying scandal stemming from the recent revelation in The New York Times that he authorized the National Security Agency (NSA) to eavesdrop on domestic communications without the required approval of the Foreign...    more...

Jan 1, 2006 State puts brakes on lobbying shuttles Said disabled advocate Barbara Toomer: "Why are they so afraid of the people they are serving? Are they not serving them well?"    more...

Jan 1, 2006 Laura Bonham - Free-market remedies won't cure our health-care woes Among the "solutions" offered to both Utah and America's growing health-care crisis are proposals to shift more of the health-care burden onto health-care consumers, or individuals.    more...

Dec 29, 2005 The Newest 9/11 Business Fraud The report backs an Associated Press story from September. The AP found terrorism recovery loans from a similar program went to businesses including a Virgin Islands perfume shop, a Utah dog boutique and more than 100 Dunkin' Donuts and Subway shops. At the same time, small businesses near...    more...

Dec 23, 2005 Daschle: Congress Denied Bush War Powers in U.S. The Bush administration requested, and Congress rejected, war-making authority "in the United States" in negotiations over the joint resolution passed days after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, according to an opinion article by former Senate majority leader Thomas A. Daschle (D-S.D.) in...    more...

Dec 23, 2005 Mayor asks that man be kept 1,000 feet from him at any time Court documents state that within the past month McGean has made numerous phone calls to the mayor's office wanting to meet with Anderson "to discuss several environmental issues," including a cure he says he developed for AIDS and cancer. McGean allegedly told police the mayor "made him...    more...

Dec 22, 2005 Republicans sweat as former lobbyist prepares to snitch Jack Abramoff, a former lobbyist with extensive financial ties to numerous politicians, is prepared to co-operate with prosecutors and provide information on at least six members of Congress. Most, if not all, are Republican.    more...

Dec 21, 2005 Senator Mayne backs minimum-wage hike In an October report to the Legislature's Business and Labor Interim Committee, chairwoman Pamela Atkinson said that nearly a fifth of all Utahns would benefit by a raise to $7 per hour.    more...

Dec 21, 2005 Minimum wage battle line drawn But Mayne is hopeful that he'll gain support from Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr., who has expressed an interest in raising the minimum wage and created a working group earlier this year to study the issue. Pamela Atkinson, chair of the working group, said she has a draft of recommendations for the...    more...

Dec 21, 2005 US judge resigns over bugging row A US federal judge has resigned from the court that oversees government surveillance in intelligence cases in protest at President George Bush's secret authorisation of a domestic spying program.    more...

Dec 20, 2005 Bush�s Snoopgate The president was so desperate to kill The New York Times� eavesdropping story, he summoned the paper�s editor and publisher to the Oval Office. But it wasn�t just out of concern about national security.    more...

Dec 17, 2005 Mailer lied, Demo says "If they blow me off and do nothing, I will find out what my legal rights are," she said. "Of course, I will be pleasantly surprised if (the complaint) doesn't wind up in the circular file."    more...

Dec 17, 2005 Let the Patriot Act die Deseret Morning News editorial    more...

Dec 16, 2005 Bountiful native discusses campaign for U.S. Senate Bountiful native discusses campaign for U.S. Senate Chad Phares BOUNTIFUL � Bounti-ful native Pete Ashdown says that citizens� opinions are too often not valued by those in of-fice in Washington, D.C. While many people share the same belief, Ashdown is doing more than just complaining... Davis County Clipper        more...

Dec 16, 2005 TORTURE BAN: White House forced to accept McCain amendments We cannot imagine why Republican Reps. Chris Cannon and Rob Bishop of Utah voted against McCain's measures (Democratic Rep. Jim Matheson voted for them). Whatever Cannon's and Bishop's reasons, they cannot possibly trump the moral, practical and diplomatic imperatives of McCain's reforms.     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Dec 16, 2005 Associated Press - Bush Approved Eavesdropping, Official Says "There is no doubt that this is inappropriate," declared Republican Sen. Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee. He promised hearings early next year.    more...

Dec 15, 2005 Sen. Patrice Arent - Safe Haven law gives infants a chance at life In 2001, I sponsored a bill making it legal for a mother (or someone she trusts) to anonymously leave her infant in the care of a hospital -- no questions asked. The newborn will receive medical care and be placed with loving, capable, adoptive parents. Since this law took effect, there are...     The Daily Herald        more...

Dec 15, 2005 Casino Partner Pleads Guilty in Fraud Case A half-dozen lawmakers, many former Congressional aides and several of their wives are under scrutiny in the inquiry, which has repeatedly doubled back to focus on Representative Tom DeLay of Texas, the former majority leader.    more...

Dec 12, 2005 The time has come to speak of renewable energy The people of Utah have good reasons to demand an energy plan that diversifies the sources of our power. Currently, Utah acquires 95 percent of its electricity from burning coal compared to the rest of the country at 52 percent.    more...

Dec 11, 2005 U.S. refuses to join new talks on reducing global warming Salt Lake City Mayor Rocky Anderson, whose city won a major global environmental award last week for cutting its greenhouse gas emissions by more than 5 percent in the past three years, said state and local officials are "basically leaving the administration in the dust. The next administration...    more...

Dec 11, 2005 Utah expert lobbies for anti-torture amendment That's why he was "dumbfounded," he says, when the first reports of prisoner abuse at Abu Ghraib prison surfaced last year. As reports of other abuse have circulated, including stories of CIA-run secret prisons in Romania and Egypt, Irvine has come to expect the worst � and his outrage has deepened.    more...

Dec 11, 2005 Matheson, GOP co-sponsor try to kill automatic pay hike Rep. Jim Matheson and a Republican colleague introduced legislation Friday that would rescind Congress' $3,100 annual pay raise.    more...

Dec 10, 2005 Marine Bodies Sent To Families On Commercial Airliners Dead heroes are supposed to come home with their coffins draped with the American flag -- greeted by a color guard. But in reality, many are arriving as freight on commercial airliners -- stuffed in the belly of a plane with suitcases and other cargo.    more...

Dec 7, 2005 Orrin Hatch - pork-barrel appropriation Sparse Argument Sen. Orrin Hatch ... praises the bureaucratic tradition of pork-barrel appropriation. In other words, states with the most powerful politicians get the spoils, rather than states most likely to end up in the terrorists� crosshairs.     City Weekly        more...

Dec 7, 2005 'Fighting Dems' see options in the war against terrorism Veterans take on new battle: run for office     The Boston Globe        more...

Dec 3, 2005 A deep-pockets challenge to Cannon Millionaire Republican Battle Royale! Who will pay the most to represent you the least?    more...

Nov 30, 2005 House GOP to 'date' lobbyists - for a price 'Disgusting': Other Utah lawmakers say they want no part of speed-dating     Tribune        more...

Nov 29, 2005 Hatch refers to Iraq as Vietnam WASHINGTON - Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, flubbed Monday and referred to Iraq as Vietnam while commenting on Fox News against an immediate troop withdrawal.     Tribune        more...

Nov 29, 2005 Matheson set to give pay raise to charity again Article published Nov 28, 2005 Matheson set to give pay raise to charity again By JENNIFER WEAVER jweaver@thespectrum.com CEDAR CITY - A half-decade of pay raises that could have been spent for leisure and luxury have, instead, been donated annually... The Spectrum        more...

Nov 28, 2005 Republican "corruption" culture continues, with a set back SAN DIEGO, California (AP) -- Rep. Randy "Duke" Cunningham pleaded guilty Monday to conspiracy and tax charges involving the sale of his home two years ago to a defense contractor at an inflated price.     CNN        more...

Nov 28, 2005 Out West, Democrats Roam Free THE gun-loving, pickup truck-driving, church-going, jeans-wearing governor of Montana - a Democrat in his first year - was reveling in his poll numbers on a day when broader surveys found that barely a third of the people approved of their national government leaders.     New York Times        more...

Nov 28, 2005 Democrats to Hold Meeting in New Orleans "We are deeply committed to the resurgence of New Orleans. And we've been looking for ways to help in tangible ways," said DNC chairman Howard Dean.     AP        more...

Nov 26, 2005 Program cuts would hurt poor, do nothing to curb deficit Ironically, just a few hours later the U.S. House of Representatives narrowly approved big cuts in the Food Stamp Program, the nation's first line of defense against hunger. If these cuts become law, more than 200,000 low-income people will have their food stamps cut off.     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Nov 26, 2005 Rolly: Anderson remains controversial at home, recognized abroad If all that makes the mayor a pariah in local politics, the question is: Who else will take up the banner for those causes?     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Nov 25, 2005 Dixie Demos urged to step up ST. GEORGE � Cyril Noble has a tough job, and he knows it.     Deseret Morning News        more

Nov 24, 2005 Statement from Utah faith leaders regarding torture We, the leaders of several religious communities in Utah are calling on Congress and the President to rule out "any and all use of torture" of war prisoners as an option for the U.S. government or its agents.    more...

Nov 23, 2005 House Agrees to $3,100 Pay Raise for 2006 House blocks bid by Rep. Jim Matheson to force an up-or-down vote on Congressional pay raise proposal; Matheson is the only one of 434 House members to speak out against the 1.9 percent COLA    more...

Nov 23, 2005 Ashdown looks for support in Southern Utah # Hatch's Democratic challenger says opportunities for future are shrinking    more...

Nov 23, 2005 Ex-Cannon staffer had lobbying firm links David Safavian: His 'leave of absence' status from his lobbyist position raises loyalty issues    more...

Nov 23, 2005 Carter heads to Utah, brings feisty views on issues Who is behind the "unnecessary" Iraq war? Who is responsible for the expanding gap between the rich and poor? Who has abandoned the environment?    more...

Nov 22, 2005 Abramoff Partner Pleads Guilty Scanlon Admits He Conspired to Bribe Lawmaker     The Washington Post        more

Nov 22, 2005 Opening the Door to Debate, and Then Shutting It Vice President Cheney protested yesterday that he had been misunderstood when he said last week that critics of the White House over Iraq were "dishonest and reprehensible." What he meant to say, he explained to his former colleagues at the American Enterprise Institute, was that those who...     Washington Post        more...

Nov 22, 2005 Bring Democracy to Congress Perhaps we should redeploy the democracy experts we have sent to the Middle East and ask them to work on our Congress. The past few days have confirmed that our national government is dysfunctional.     Washington Post        more...

Nov 21, 2005 National Security Adviser was Woodward's source, attorneys say National Security Adviser was Woodward's source, attorneys say     The Raw Story        more

Nov 20, 2005 48% say replace Hatch Democrat Ashdown says he sees an opportunity     Deseret Morning News        more

Nov 19, 2005 Utahns in House vote against pulling out from Iraq, disagree on their reasons But Matheson said that doesn't mean he won't push for more information on how the war is progressing. �We do need a very honest assessment of what's working and what's not working. We do want a clear path to success.�     Tribune        more

Nov 19, 2005 Farmers express doubts as Hatch aide defends big oil ') //--> =0)document.write(unescape('%3C')+'\!-'+'-') //-->... Tribune        more

Nov 19, 2005 Sheriff already has Democratic challenger Campaigning could kick off next week     Park Record        more

Nov 18, 2005 "Which came first, the client or the legislation?" �[A]n analysis of Cannon's positions on key issues during Safavian's tenure shows a trend benefitting clients at Safavian's former lobby firm.�     POGO        more

Nov 17, 2005 Senior Democrat calls for U.S. troops to leave Iraq Rep. Murtha: 'U.S. and coalition troops have done all they can'     CNN        more

Nov 17, 2005 Hatch blows his stack over the proposed tax on big oil The bill: It would require investing profits in new resources or face a levy     Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Nov 16, 2005 Demo Matheson beats out GOP heavyweights Most popular Utah politician? Surprise � Demo Matheson beats out GOP heavyweights     Deseret News        more

Nov 16, 2005 Iron County Democrats hold house party CEDAR CITY - The house party at Larry Daniel's house Tuesday night was more politically motivated than a mere gathering for merriment.     The Spectrum        more

Nov 12, 2005 Losing a voice on the Hill: Bourdeaux to step down Salt Lake City's Bourdeaux will step down, focus on changing educational system    more

Oct 22, 2005 Davis Demos: The few, the proud...the ignored Like the Marines, they are the few, the proud. But at times they feel lonelier than the Maytag man and sometimes get less respect than Rodney Dangerfield. They are the Democrats � and Davis County isn�t an especially easy place for them to succeed.     Davis County Clipper        more

Aug 19, 2005 UTAH GAS PRICES RISING; BUSH FAILS TO COMBAT RISING PRICES WHILE BIG OIL PROFITS Gas Prices Rising in Utah. According to AAA, the price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Utah is $2.41, an increase of 51 cents from six months ago. [AAA, www.fuelgaugereport.com]    more...

Aug 12, 2005 Howard Dean Makes Commitment to Utah Governor Dean�s visit to Utah has invigorated us all. He spoke to two rooms filled to capacity during his two hour visit. A fundraising reception was held beforehand at the Oyster Bar in Downtown Salt Lake City. After the reception, Governor Dean spoke to over 600 citizens and...    more...

Aug 12, 2005 Ashdown Announces New Campaign Manager Pete Ashdown, Democratic candidate for the United States Senate, has hired Brett Garner as his new campaign manager. Mr. Garner will be replacing Carla Wiese, who, due to her increasing responsibilities as a counselor for teens, is unable to continue full time work on Mr....    more...

Aug 12, 2005 CITIZENS FOR CHANGE WINS KEARNS ELECTION A majority of seats on the new Kearns Community Council were won by candidates associated with �Citizens for Change,� a group that includes former Democratic State House nominee Chuck Mc Dowell and the Chair of the State Party�s African-American Democratic Caucus Charles Henderson. The Democratic...    more

Aug 12, 2005 Robyn Matheson Will Receive the 2005 Eleanor Roosevelt Award The Utah State Democratic Party has a proud tradition of honoring the life long political and social influence of Eleanor Roosevelt by recognizing a local woman�s efforts towards the same goals. This year, we will hold our annual Eleanor Roosevelt Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, September 27, 2005....    more...

Aug 1, 2005 State-jobs retirement rate sees 30% jump State employee retirements have jumped by more than 30 percent so far this year after Republican state lawmakers decided to cut off a generous retirement benefit starting in 2006. Democrats in the legislature voted overwhelmingly against this change.     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Aug 1, 2005 Odd choice for 'civility' lecture Who is an expert on civility? According to the Sutherland Institute, Sen. Curtis Bramble, R-Provo, described by some legislative observers as "nothing but a big bully," as "not Utah-nice."     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Aug 1, 2005 GOP official steps into lobbyist job Former Republican Lt. Governor Val Oveson headed the Utah State Tax Commission eight years ago when the agency bought an ill-fated $34 million computer system from a company called AMS. He served as the state's chief information officer as recently as December. Now, he works as a...     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Aug 1, 2005 No GOP rival yet in 2nd District No Republican has stepped forward to challenge Matheson, who beat a well-financed John Swallow in 2004 by 15 percentage points in a GOP-dominated district that national and local Republicans have targeted for years.     Deseret Morning News        more...

Jul 30, 2005 Mormon Democrats reach out to fellow LDS One day, a member of the LDS Church will not automatically be assumed to vote Republican. At least that is the view of six Mormon Democrats who discussed their place in the political spectrum during a Friday session of the Sunstone Conference.     The Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Jul 17, 2005 Dean exhorts Demos to stand up for beliefs Howard Dean brought an impassioned message and his apparent rock star status to Salt Lake City Saturday afternoon, drawing a crowd that started lining up at 8 a.m. for his noon speech.     Deseret Morning News        more...

Jul 17, 2005 ACTIVIST BILL LUTTRELL DIES Longtime Democratic political activist Bill Luttrell died on Tuesday, July 12. His dedication to bringing the community together and to progressive politics will be greatly missed by leaders of the Democratic Party. Bill�s memorial service will be held on October 7, 2005 at the First Unitarian...    more...

Jul 11, 2005 Utah Demo began political life early In stark contrast to many of today's politicians, the new Democratic Party chairman is not much of a sound-bite guy. To best understand Wayne Holland, time will be needed. He speaks methodically, testing his words carefully, and often contemplates a question beyond a few beats before...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Jun 29, 2005 Tenacious (D) Democrat Pete Ashdown faces an uphill battle against stalwart Republican Sen. Orrin Hatch. Is he ready for the fight?     Salt Lake City Weekly        more...

Jun 17, 2005 Davis County Democrat Volunteers! Davis County Call to Volunteers    more...

Jun 10, 2005 Salt Lake County to recruit election judges Salt Lake County Clerk Sherrie Swensen's election office is currently recruiting Salt Lake County residents as election judges for this year's municipal and special service district elections.    more...

Jun 10, 2005 Boys State participants hear debate between Dems, GOP OGDEN -- It was a whirlwind day for teens aspiring for political office as they witnessed a Republican/Democratic debate, then were lectured on voting participation by Utah Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert.     Ogden Standard-Examiner        more...

Apr 19, 2005 Yocom is almost ready to rest District attorney tells S.L. County Democrats he will not seek re-election By Thomas Burr The Salt Lake Tribune Salt Lake County District Attorney David Yocom - who once prosecuted serial killer Ted Bundy on a kidnapping...    more...

Mar 20, 2005 Democrats pick new senator House seat open: Brent Goodfellow will replace Sen. Ron Allen, who will take a seat on the Public Service Commission    more...

Mar 7, 2005 Matheson: Demos can win using local issues When Utah Rep. Jim Matheson spoke Saturday, Democrats from across the nation listened with more than polite interest.    more...

Feb 23, 2005 A message from Chairman Dunn A message from Chairman Dunn on not running for Chair in 2005, as well as upcoming events and the future of the party.    more...

Feb 15, 2005 BRIEFING NOTES FROM FIGHTING FOR WORKING FAMILIES Rep. Ralph Becker, the Democratic House Leader, started the press briefing by stating that Gov. Walker's work on tax reform was extraordinary and reflected much of where we needed to go with tax policy in this decade for this century. He noted that the basic concepts were appealing.    more...

Feb 13, 2005 Democrats tap Dean to lead their party DNC chairman: The ex-presidential candidate says he'll focus his efforts on the South and West By Jeff Zeleny Chicago Tribune WASHINGTON - Howard Dean, whose revolutionary bid to lead the Democratic Party fell short one year ago with the collapse of his presidential candidacy,...    more...

Feb 8, 2005 NOTES FROM BRIEFING ON RESPONSIBILITY FOR CHILDREN'S SAFETY NOTES FROM BRIEFING ON RESPONSIBILITY FOR CHILDREN'S SAFETY Rep. Ralph Becker, House Democratic Leader, started the discussion on children's safety by noting that parents are responsible for running their own lives and treating their families with respect and honor. The overwhelming...    more...

Feb 8, 2005 Young Democrats of America 2005 Winter National Meeting to be held in Salt Lake City Meeting to be held March 4-6, 2005.    more...

Feb 8, 2005 State's first gay senator is sworn in There wasn't much audible response to Utah's first openly gay state senator's debut before his new colleagues Monday � silence blamed on a faulty sound system.    more...

Feb 6, 2005 Dems pick gay advocate to fill state Senate spot In a surprise move, Democrats named gay-rights advocate Scott McCoy to the state Senate on Saturday, making him Utah's second openly gay lawmaker and setting up what could be an interesting matchup in the conservative Legislature.    more...

Feb 1, 2005 STRENGTHENING DEMOCRACY - Utah Dems introduce an abundance of bills. On Monday, January 30, House Democratic Leader Ralph Becker announced a group of bills designed to help strengthen the public's trust in our democracy. He noted that none of the bills is intended to be partisan in nature. He said that the fact that Democrats were the sponsors of more of this type...    more...

Jan 31, 2005 Mormon Democrats link up in Congress WASHINGTON � They are not large in number, but the Mormon Democratic Congressional Caucus is determined to dispel the perception that the words "Mormon" and "Democrat" cannot be used to describe the same person.    more...

Jan 29, 2005 Mormon Democrats caucus in Congress, reassert values WASHINGTON - When Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid brought his fellow Mormon Democrats together this week for their first caucus meeting, they nearly had perfect attendance. The fourth member couldn't make it.    more...

Jan 25, 2005 Transportation Should Not Be Top Issue, Democrats Say Democratic lawmakers say transportation funding shouldn't be at the top of the list of legislative priorities.    more...

Jan 25, 2005 Fight For Money Begins in the Legislature There is already a fight over money on Utah's Capitol Hill. Today House Democrats disputed an early Republican plan to spend a big chunk of the state's surplus on transportation projects.    more...

Jan 25, 2005 Democrats Skeptical Over GOP Road Plans Democrats in the Utah House say their counterparts in the Republican majority are focusing too heavily on funding new road construction.    more...

Jan 19, 2005 Democrats Respond to State of the State Read the Democratic Response to Governor Huntsman's first State of the State Address, given Tuesday, January 18th.    more...

Nov 4, 2004 Democrats make large strides in S.L. County - The Salt Lake Tribune A new era? Corroon, Wilson and some new legislators show the party is not a total pushover    more...

Oct 29, 2004 Dina Blaes Endorsed by Salt Lake Tribune The voters of Salt Lake County Council District 4 can't go far wrong on Election Day because they have two excellent candidates from which to choose. Both have impressive professional qualifications that would be an asset to the council. On balance, however, because of the depth of her...    more...

Oct 29, 2004 Babka fires at Cannon during rally PROVO � Chris Cannon versus Beau Babka might be becoming Utah's forgotten congressional race, but a rally Friday sparked a heated exchange days before the election.     The Deseret News        more

Oct 29, 2004 'Regular Beau' tries to unseat Cannon Four days before the election, Democrat Beau Babka called a news conference in downtown Provo championing America's "abused working class."    more

Oct 22, 2004 Jenny Wilson Endorsed By Salt Lake Tribune Jenny Wilson has a famous political name in Utah. She's the daughter of former Salt Lake City Mayor Ted Wilson. But that's not why we are endorsing her in the at-large race for the Salt Lake County Council.    more...

Oct 22, 2004 Fred Fife Endorsed By Tribune Fred Fife, the Democratic candidate for Utah Senate District 1, is a bridge-builder - literally and philosophically.    more...

Oct 22, 2004 The Spectrum & Daily News supports Dixie Andrus Southern Utah's delegation to the Legislature works hard to give this region a voice. The lawmakers we send have to be strong and persistent. Even then, our region often takes a back seat to the needs and wants of the Wasatch Front.    more...

Oct 22, 2004 Babka radio ads airing � but only on Internet Deseret Morning News, Friday, October 22, 2004 Babka radio ads airing � but only on Internet Only place to hear his radio spots is on the Internet By Tad Walch Deseret Morning News PROVO � Beau Babka attacks incumbent Republican Congressman Chris Cannon in seven new radio spots, but...    more

Oct 15, 2004 Babka takes on immigration Rep. Chris Cannon's challenger says the issue is actually one of homeland security reform    more

Oct 10, 2004 Editorial | Kerry for President The choice is vivid. The stakes are vast.    more...

Oct 10, 2004 Beau Babka answers Deseret Morning News questionnaire Deseret Morning News, Sunday, October 10, 2004 Beau Babka answers Deseret Morning News questionnaire 3rd Congressional District Deseret Morning News Democrat challenger Beau Babka 1. What is the major issue facing Utah today, and how would you deal with it? When...    more

Oct 10, 2004 Compassion helps Babka as cop, dad, political candidate "I know this race can be won," Babka said. "People believe in this. I'm committed to them. I think the change is in the wind. I think he's vulnerable. Yeah, I'm not a Republican, but that's not going to matter."    more

Oct 7, 2004 Babka will make sure laws are enforced Babka will make sure laws are enforced Date October 07, 2004 Being a Republican dissatisfied with many of Congressman Cannon's positions, I decided to take a look at his Democratic opponent, Beau Babka. I was happy to find that Babka is concerned about the outsourcing of U.S....    more

Oct 6, 2004 Grass Roots Support Babka best man for 3rd Congressional District Date October 06, 2004 I am a registered Republican and was a delegate to the Salt Lake County Republican convention, and you would think that I would be voting straight-ticket Republican. However, I am supporting Beau Babka's...    more

Sep 30, 2004 Hinkley Institute of Politics Announces its October 2004 Forums Come watch our Democratic candidates shine as they take on the airwaves in the Hinkley Institute of Politics October 2004 Forums    more...

Sep 29, 2004 Join the Matheson for Congress Team! Join the Matheson for Congress Team, every little bit helps!    more...

Sep 27, 2004 Congressional Candidate Needs Volunteers For Telephoning Steve Thompson is looking for volunteers to help him get his name recognized and his message out in the first district.    more...

Sep 27, 2004 Cache County has Grand Opening and Holds Successful Issues Forum Cache County holds successful Issues Forum & Grand Opening    more...

Sep 27, 2004 Resilient Babka optimistic Resilient Babka optimistic in bid for U.S. House seat By Kirsten Stewart The Salt Lake Tribune Beau Babka volunteered to man the Democratic Party's State Fair booth, tucked in the most remote northeast corner of the park. In the span of an hour, maybe two dozen people trickled by. A...    more

Jun 29, 2004 Nothing 'average' about Beau "I am a regular guy. I'm the average Beau instead of the average Joe." � Beau Babka    more

Jun 24, 2004 Babka fires away at Cannon Post-primary response by Beau Babka     Deseret News        more

May 14, 2004 Polls Show Bush's Job-Approval Ratings Sinking May 14, 2004 Polls Show Bush's Job-Approval Ratings Sinking By DAVID E. SANGER ASHINGTON, May 13 - As President Bush was traveling through the Midwest on his exuberant bus tour last week, his campaign aides still sounded confident that the revelations of how Iraqi prisoners were abused... New York Times        more

Apr 29, 2004 Gore Giving Leftover Cash of $6 Million to Back Kerry April 29, 2004 By GLEN JUSTICE and KATHARINE Q. SEELYE ASHINGTON, April 28 � Former Vice President Al Gore, who backed Howard Dean in the Democratic primaries, announced Wednesday that he would give more than $6 million left over from his unsuccessful 2000 presidential campaign to... New York Times        more...

Apr 27, 2004 Justice Dept. Opens Inquiry on Memo Theft By ERIC LICHTBLAU ASHINGTON, April 26 � The Justice Department has opened a criminal investigation into accusations that Republican Congressional aides stole sensitive Democratic memorandums, and the department has tapped David N. Kelley, the top federal prosecutor in Manhattan, to lead... New York Times        more...

Apr 27, 2004 Mr. Cheney's Day in Court he Supreme Court hears arguments today on Vice President Dick Cheney's attempt to keep the public from knowing who met with him behind closed doors three years ago to draft the administration's energy policy. The case is best known for the controversy over Justice Antonin Scalia's decision... New York Times Editorial        more...

Apr 27, 2004 Kerry Questions Bush Attendance in Guard in 70's By ADAM NAGOURNEY and JODI WILGOREN Published: April 27, 2004 ULTON, Mo., April 26 � In a day of piercing and personal exchanges, John Kerry questioned on Monday whether President Bush skipped National Guard duty 30 years ago, while Vice President Dick Cheney disparaged Mr. Kerry as... New York Times        more...

Apr 26, 2004 Walker's vetoes facing challenge By Kirsten Stewart The Salt Lake Tribune Utah lawmakers reconvene today to debate whether the state should crack down on unfair business competition and restrict special bond elections to primary or general election days. It's dry stuff, but important public policy --... Salt Lake Tribune        more

Apr 26, 2004 Ban on Internet tax in limbo By Robert Gehrke The Salt Lake Tribune WASHINGTON -- Rep. Chris Cannon and others are pushing to ban state and local governments from taxing Internet access, a move they say would help grow the country's technology economy and help make Internet service more accessible to... Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Apr 26, 2004 Thousands throng the capital to rally for abortion rights Women on the march Thousands throng the capital to rally for abortion rights By Bob Dart Cox News Service WASHINGTON � Waving a sea of pink and purple "pro-choice" signs, hundreds of thousands of abortion rights activists marched on the nation's capital Sunday and warned... Deseret News        more...

Apr 26, 2004 Utahns take part in D.C. and at home By Kathy Stephenson The Salt Lake Tribune It was a birthday present that Shannon Harper is not likely to forget. The 21-year-old University of Utah student was one of the throngs of people who traveled to the nation's capital to participate in Sunday's March for Women's Lives.... Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Apr 23, 2004 It's a turning point for party hopefuls It's a turning point for party hopefuls By Kirsten Stewart and Thomas Burr The Salt Lake Tribune For many candidates eyeing a seat in Utah's Legislature or county governments, the 2004 election will be won or lost this weekend. Thousands of Republican and Democratic... Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Apr 23, 2004 County leaders meet candidates for new voting technology County leaders meet candidates for new voting technology By Thomas Burr The Salt Lake Tribune OGDEN -- There were computers. There were cards. But there were no hanging chads. County leaders from across the state saw what could be the future of voting in Utah this week... Salt Lake Tribune        more...

Feb 6, 2004 Bush Budget Cuts Programs Vital to Hispanic Families President Bush sent Congress a budget proposal that would cut vital programs for the same Hispanic families that President Bush is asking to vote for him.    more...

Apr 29, 2002 House hopefuls reveal war chests Deseret Morning News, Thursday, April 29, 2004 Matheson has more cash than 3 GOP rivals combined By Lee Davidson Deseret Morning News WASHINGTON � Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah, has again lengthened his money lead over the three Republicans challenging him, enjoying more cash in the bank... Deseret News        more...

Civil Rights

Apr 23, 2007 Tribune says senators should vote for 4th seat Utah's two U.S. senators should vote for a bill to provide Utah a fourth seat in the House of Representatives.     The Salt Lake Tribune        more

Apr 19, 2007 Democrats remain committed to open primary Todd Taylor, executive director of the Utah Democratic Party, told Utah lawmakers Wednesday, that the party supports any law that improves voter access. Taylor testified before the Government Operations Interim Committee, which is considering whether to continue a law allowing unaffiliated voters...     Deseret Morning News        more

Mar 18, 2007 FBI ignored warnings procedures to guard Americans' privacy were not being followed The Sunday March 18, 2007 Washington Post reports the FBI ignored concerns raised from both within the department and by at least one US Senator regarding the failure to follow procedures for obtaining tens of thousands of phone records. Warning bells were sounded as early as October 2004. To...     Washington Post        more

Crime and Justice

Jun 13, 2007 Gonzales should resign Alberto Gonzales, attorney general of the United States, ought to have the decency to resign. Not only is Gonzales virtually powerless (Congress is unlikely to support any new Justice Department initiatives as long as he is in charge), but he has conducted himself shamefully during the entire...     Deseret Morning News        more

Mar 29, 2007 GOP forces halt to Judiciary Committee hearing after Gonzales implicated GOP Senators invoked a rarely used Senate rule to bring a halt to a Judiciary Committee hearing after two hours of testimony from the Attorney General's former chief of staff after he made clear Gonzales was involved in the decision to fire eight U.S. attorneys. Kyle Sampson, Gonzales' former...     Utah Democratic Party        more

Mar 28, 2007 Gonzales' former Chief of Staff admits firings were political Attorney General Alberto Gonzales' former chief of staff, Kyle Sampson, has admitted the firing of eight U.S. attorneys was a political decision. In a copy of a statement he is planning to give before the U.S. Senate on Thursday, March 29 he states "A U.S. attorney who is unsuccessful from a...     Utah Democratic Party        more

Mar 26, 2007 Gonzales aid takes the Fifth A lawyer for a top aide to Attorney General Gonzales is invoking her Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination. Citing the recent Libby trial and conviction as an example of what might happen to his client should she speak, Monica Goodling's lawyer justified her decision not to answer...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 14, 2007 Former Hatch aid resigns amidst questions at Justice Department A former aid to Senator Orrin Hatch has resigned as Chief of Staff for Attorney General Gonzales amid questions surrounding the firing of 8 US Attorneys. Kyle Sampson has served as Gonzales' Chief of Staff since 2005. Emails released this week showed significant discussions between the White...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 6, 2007 Vice President's former chief of staff found guilty on 4 of 5 counts I. Lewis "Scooter" Libbey, Vice President Dick Cheney's former Chief of Staff, has been found guilty on four of five counts connected to the investigation into the leaking of CIA operative Valerie Plame's name to members of the media. Charges included obstruction of justice and perjury. For...     Utah Democratic Party        more

Economy

Dec 8, 2008 Auto industry woes have implications for Utah The Deseret Morning News reports Utah's car dealers, as well as Utah's largest manufacturer, Autoliv, may face consequences if America's big three automakers go down. To read the full article, click here:     Deseret Morning News        more

Nov 26, 2008 Senator Bennett praises Obama plans for infrastructure Senator Bennett praises President-elect Obama's commitment to investing in America's infrastructure as part of the economic rescue package. To read the entire Salt Lake Tribune article, click here:     Utah Democratic Party        more

Apr 18, 2007 Construction costs worry Democrat Corroon For Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon, time is money. The County Council on Tuesday tabled a vote on authorizing funds for 25 recreation projects. "The longer we wait on construction, the more expensive it will get. I just get worried," Corroon said.     Deseret News        more

Nov 19, 2005 Spending: The Utah Democrat predicts problems By 217-215: Bishop and Cannon give begrudging support, while Matheson opposes the measure     Tribune        more

Oct 23, 2005 Matheson gets support to halt pay raises Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah, has been trying for five years � and failing each and every year � to eliminate the automatic pay increase for members of Congress. But now it appears Matheson has some most unlikely allies in his quixotic quest � 96 members of the U.S. Senate.     Deseret Morning News        more

Oct 23, 2005 Democrats make a difference for charity The Democrats of Southern Utah donated supplies and labor to Dixie Care and Share in St. George to commemorate Make a Difference Day. For the Democrats, Care and Share was an obvious choice for Make a Difference Day because they provide meals for those staying there once every month.     The Spectrum        more...

Oct 22, 2005 Blue Dogs howl at $8 trillion deficit Fiscally conservative Demo group, including Matheson, boos Congress By Jerry Spangler Deseret Morning News     Deseret Morning News        more

Education

Jun 29, 2007 Counties required to pick up most of November election tab Lt. Governor Herbert's office has informed counties they will be responsible for most of the cost of this November's voucher referendum. To read more, click here:     Salt Lake Tribune        more

May 4, 2007 State School Board postpones action on vouchers In light of Utahns for Public Schools success in bringing the voucher issue before the voters, the State School Board is seeking additional legal advice before proceeding with implementation of any voucher program. To read more, click here:     Utah Democratic Party        more

May 3, 2007 Solutions to Utah's growing teacher shortage crisis considered Last year, Utah had approximately 1,400 fewer teachers than needed. The state's teacher shortage is expected to continue to deepen in the near future if action is taken soon. Solutions being looked at include year round school and teachers picking up additional classes in exchange for...     Utah Democratic Party        more

Apr 30, 2007 Keep the kids safe this summer Accidental injuries to children increase in the summer months, causing deaths and serious disabilities. Almost all of them could have been prevented. Find out more.     Safe Kids Utah        more

Apr 29, 2007 Sen. Scott McCoy: A way out of the school voucher mess Gov. Jon Huntsman should call the Legislature into special session to clarify that the citizens' vote will decide the school voucher issue once and for all.     Op-ed by Sen. Scott McCoy        more

Apr 9, 2007 Voucher Referendum appears to be a success According to the April 9, 2007 Salt Lake Tribune, voucher foes appear to have gathered nearly 40,000 more signatures than required by law in 24 of Utah's 29 counties. To read the entire story, click here:     Utah Democratic Party        more

Mar 27, 2007 2006 Democratic Utah Senate Candidate defends Utah's public schools 2006 Utah Senate Candidate and Iron County Democratic Party Vice Chair Emily Hollingshead defends Utah's public schools in an opinion piece appearing in the St. George Spectrum. In her column she points out many of the flaws in voucher proponent's arguments. To read the entire column, click here:     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 21, 2007 Some private schools rejecting vouchers The Provo Daily Herald is reporting some private schools will not be accepting vouchers. A spokeswoman for Challenger Schools expressed concern that public money leads to public regulation of private schools. It is good see some people understand that to the extent a private school accepts...     Utah Democratic Party        more

Mar 2, 2007 Voucher Referendum launched Both the Salt Lake Tribune and Deseret Morning News are reporting voucher opponents are planning to gather signatures over the next 40 days to place Utah's new voucher law on the ballot in 2008. None of Utah's Democratic legislators supported the voucher law. To access links to both major...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 25, 2007 Former Senator Karl Swan speaks out on education funding Former State Senator Karl Swan writes in response to last week's column by Rep. Clark in which the Representative argued the legislature has done essentially all it can for education in Utah. To read former Senator Swan's column in its entirety, click here:     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 22, 2007 Representative Hemingway legislation aimed at helping teachers Democratic Representative Lynn Hemingway's HB 416 would create a teacher loan program to provide assistance to Utah teachers struggling to qualify for a home in Utah. According to KUER's morning report on this and other education related legislation, starting wages for Utah teachers are as low...     Utah Democratic Party        more

Jan 25, 2005 Hansen Emphasizes Education Spending As Top State Priority SALT LAKE CITY -- State Rep. Neil Hansen, D-Ogden, supports the concern of his party leadership that some education programs may be neglected if an $85 million transportation proposal from Republicans is fully funded.    more...

Environment

Apr 18, 2007 Prepare for the coming dry times A report prepared with the help of state water planners says climate change and increases in the Utah population will make droughts in the future harsher than in the past. The report, titled "Drought in Utah: Learning from the Past-Preparing for the Future," comes as Utah confronts a March...     The Salt LakeTribune        more

Apr 15, 2007 Utah residents 'Step it Up' on global warming An estimated 3,500 or more people gathered at Salt Lake's Washington Square to call on members of Congress to act on global warming. Cities all over the U.S. saw similar rallies, but by some accounts Salt Lake saw more people in attendance than similar events in places like Chicago. To read...     Utah Democratic Party        more

Mar 5, 2007 Is testing at the Nevada Test Site still in our future? Over the past three days several articles have surfaced that raise significant concerns regarding the possibility of future testing of either/both nuclear and conventional weapons in Nevada. To read today's Salt Lake Tribune article on the issue or yesterday's Democratic Party blog with links to...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 1, 2007 Energy Department fails to meet energy efficiency deadlines The US Energy Department is as much as 15 years behind on energy regulations mandated by Congress that would have saved consumers nearly $30 billion by 2030. To read the entire story, click here:     Utah Democratic Party        more

Feb 11, 2007 When it comes to the Environment, George Bush is no T.R. Teddy Roosevelt is widely considered the first conservationist to serve in the White House. According to a column in the Sunday, February 11 New York Times, Bush is certainly no Teddy Roosevelt. To read the column click here:     Utah Democratic Party        more

Dec 8, 2006 Slow work on tailings worries Matheson - He says he doesn't want project to 'slip through the cracks' A Utah congressman wants to know why the U.S. Department of Energy is taking so long to clean up the Moab uranium mill tailings.
"I just want to make sure that this project doesn't get delayed and really just sort of slip through the cracks," Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah, said Thursday in...     Deseret Morning News        more...

Apr 2, 2006 S.L. County is going green - Environmental policies are ordered by Corroon Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon has a message for those who carry out the government's business: Keep it green. Corroon issued an executive order last week calling on county agencies to "incorporate environmentally sustainable practices in their day-to-day operations."     The Deseret Morning News        more...

Nov 30, 1999 The dangers of energy dependence Utah Democrats met with Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer Monday in Salt Lake City to discuss energy policy and the dangers of relying on foreign sources of oil.     Utah Democratic Party        more

Health Care

May 7, 2007 Uinsured children cost more than those covered by CHIP A new study has found an uninsured child costs society over $2,000 more per child than a child covered by the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). According to the study published in this month's issue of Pediatrics and reported on in the Salt Lake Tribune, cutting back on programs like...     Utah Democratic Party        more

Apr 15, 2007 Congressman Matheson seeks expansion of CHIP funding Congressman Jim Matheson is seeking an expansion of the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Matheson believes the program covers too few children in Utah, and with more resources the number of children covered could be substantially increased. To read the full article, click here:     Utah Democratic Party        more

Mar 2, 2007 Record surplus not enough to begin solving health insurance problem KCPW's Julie Rose reports that while a lot of people got what they wanted out of this year's legislative session, including money that will enable the state to add an additional 10,000 children to the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), solutions to Utah's growing health care crisis are...     Utah Democratic Party        more

Feb 26, 2007 Governors critical of Bush's health care plan Governors are seeking additional financial support from the federal government to cover shortfalls in federal spending on the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). States need an addition $745 million to keep the program going through October. Longterm shortfalls are estimated at...     Utah Democratic Party        more

Feb 21, 2007 Health care costs set to rise dramatically The Associated Press is reporting by 2016 health care spending will account for $1 out of every $5 spent in the US. Out of pocket expenses such as copays will likely rise from $850 annually to around $1,400, a 5.3% annual increase. Premiums will rise even more dramatically if nothing is done at...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Homeland Defense

Mar 12, 2007 Military's 'Stop-loss' policy taking its toll on soldiers The March 12 issue of the Salt Lake Tribune describes the toll the military's 'stop-loss' policy is taking on soldiers and their families. In the article, executive director of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America Paul Rieckhoff states "There are very few policies that more profoundly impact...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 2, 2007 Shortages threaten National Guard's capability According to a new report issued by The Commission on the National Guard and Reserve 88% of the nation's National Guard units are rated "not ready." According to the report as quoted in a story in the Washington Post, "The Department of Defense is not adequately equipping the National Guard for...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Feb 24, 2007 Army's top general plays down need to find Bin Laden The Army's highest-ranking officer said Friday that he was unsure whether the U.S. military would capture or kill Osama bin Laden, adding, "I don't know that it's all that important, frankly." To read the entire Fort Worth Star-Telegram article, click here:     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Rural Issues

Apr 20, 2006 Planned Growth For more than 150 years, Salt Lake's catchword has been "growth." The economy needs to grow in order to provide jobs, education, transportation, housing, recreation, and infrastructure for a population that is expected to nearly double over the next half-century. Utah normally leads the country...     by Mayor Peter M. Corroon        more

Veteran Affairs

May 4, 2007 Prolonged deployments putting U.S. soldiers under increasing mental strain The Defense Department's Task Force on Mental Health issued a new report today. In it they raised serious concerns regarding the impact lengthening deployments is having on the mental health of U.S. soldiers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. The report also indicated the U.S. government has...     Utah Democratic Party        more

Mar 30, 2007 Few Utah Veterans take advantage of benefits According to a KCPW report fewer than 10% of Utah's 160,000 or so veterans are using benefits offered by the U.S. government. Terry Schow, director of the Utah Division of Veterans' Affairs expresses some concern during the interview the recent scandal at Walter Reed may make Utah's veterans...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 19, 2007 Did privatization efforts hamper Walter Reed's ability to meet returning soldiers' needs? According to the AP, "a series of bid, rebid, protests and appeals put off the deal for 3 years as more injured soldiers were arriving." Approximately 300 federal employees lost their jobs and private contractors were only able to bring in around 50 to take their place as the number of wounded...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 16, 2007 Was GOP infighting responsible for failure to adequately support our veterans? NPR's John Ydstie reports veterans' advocates and some Republicans in Congress are saying GOP infighting resulted in a failure to provide sufficient resources to care for wounded soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and veterans of past wars. One Republican Congressman even alleges he...     Utah Democratic Party        more...

Mar 2, 2007 Army Secretary resigns over problems at Walter Reed Army Secretary Francis J. Harvey has announced his resignation following the growing fallout over the treatment of returning Iraq War vets. To read the entire story, click here:     Utah Democratic Party        more

Mar 1, 2007 General in charge of Walter Reed dismissed Maj. General George W. Weightman, commanding general for the North Atlantic Regional Medical Command which includes Walter Reed hospital, has been dismissed following over a week of continuing coverage of poor treatment received by wounded soldiers. To read the entire AP story, click here:     Utah Democratic Party        more

Working Families

Apr 13, 2007 Bankruptcy filings up in Utah and across the nation KCPW reports bankruptcy filings are up in Utah for the third month in a row. Filings are also up across the nation. According to United Way's Bill Crim "Significant numbers of middle and moderate low-income families are living paycheck to paycheck, not because they are irresponsible, but...     Utah Democratic Party        more
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