Sine die. Finally. Now what?

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

The 2025 legislative session concluded Friday evening. (Frank won multiple “friendly” bets that lawmakers would end at midnight despite their promises of an early departure.) Since your columnists witnessed the final bang of the gavel, we offer our tired, first-hand observations.

Political battles were fought and passionate speeches delivered. Now that the dust has settled over the legislative session, what were the highlights and how will Utahns be impacted by what did or didn’t pass?

COWLEY & PIGNANELLI: Utah’s 2025 political ironman known as the legislative session is in the books. Successful legislation is now being gussied up for the governor to review and sign. But parts of the Capitol resemble a crypt where ghosts of bills that didn’t pass haunt the hallways.

Every Utahn (now the required spelling for those in the Beehive state) was impacted by legislation, especially how and what we drink. No more fluoridated water. Soft drinks may no longer be purchased with food stamps. The annual alcohol legislation is usually uncontroversial because it was vetted for months behind the scenes, yet this year it passed only in the final hours. Bartenders can now test the quality of drinks by using the “straw test.” (Frank assures us he does his own testing, usually by gulping.)

Lawmakers awaited the final revenue estimates before taking a paring knife to taxes rather than an axe like they wanted to. This spurred intra- and inter-party disputes. However, Utah individuals, families and businesses will benefit from a lower income tax of 4.5%, down from 4.55%. Social Security recipients who make less than $90,000 will be relieved from any income tax obligations.

This was to be the year of energy, and there were plenty of energetic deliberations surrounding policies to reverse the trend of Utah importing power. The current electrical provider, Rocky Mountain Power, fought hard to protect its interests. Observers noted that the ultimate policy decisions were less monumental than some predicted, but still significant. Thus, the remaining arguments, especially around renewable sources, will be fodder for discussions into the summer and next session.

Although they were quiet about their intentions prior to the session, lawmakers eventually revealed dramatic legislation to overhaul how judges are reviewed and retained. This led to a massive exchange of emails and discussions amongst Utah’s legal community. Even Chief Justice Matthew Durrant, in an unusual move, sent a letter to lawmakers expressing concern. Eventually, both sides made some concessions and agreed to work on expanding the current system of judicial evaluations. This tension between the branches of government was a natural dynamic of pressure testing checks and balances. The outcome will likely foster better communications.

The Legislature went until midnight the last night. Were there any last-minute surprises or drama?

COWLEY & PIGNANELLI: Though the feud between Sen. Daniel Thatcher and Senate Republicans was brewing for years, his surprising announcement of switching allegiances from Republican to the Utah Forward Party dominated hallway conversations on Friday.

Budget disagreements between State Auditor Tina Cannon and legislative leadership temporarily placed the auditor’s office location into question. Female lawmakers and activists rallied support behind the first female auditor, and on the final day, a truce was reached. The decision for her to remain in her current digs achieved the constitutional requirements of the auditor to save money by avoiding moving expenses such as redecorating and ordering new stationery.

Election reform was in flux all session long and the final bill passed less than an hour before adjournment. Over the next four years, ballots will be mailed only to voters who indicate their desire to continue performing their civic duty from the comfort of their kitchen tables, swaddled in bathrobes.

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Now that the session is over, what will be the focus of many politicos?

COWLEY & PIGNANELLI: The UEA and several employee associations are set to engage in one of the toughest political efforts — mounting a successful statewide referendum to repeal legislation banning unions from collective bargaining with government employers. They must gather over 140,000 valid signatures in just 40 days while satisfying a threshold in a proportionate number of Senate districts. The sheer scale of constructing a campaign this size is daunting, but having a truncated timeline immediately after the session only increases the political drama. The task before them is challenging. Yet, the UEA successfully qualified for the ballot to reverse school vouchers in 2007. Can they do it again, this time under more demanding referendum requirements? We have a friendly wager on the outcome.

Select advocates, special interest groups and lobbyists whose pleas were unsuccessful with the Legislature now have another bite at the apple with the executive branch. They have 20 days after adjournment to make their case. The biggest question on our minds is whether or not this will be the year the governor doesn’t veto a bill sponsored by his brother-in-law, Sen. Mike McKell.

As for your two humble columnists, we have big plans to occupy our now empty schedules. Renae will be busy readying her rodeo plans for the summer while Frank anxiously awaits sitting on the patio, listening to opera and imbibing without a straw.

Is the speed of federal reform too fast for Utah?

By Frank Pignanelli, Renae Cowley

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

The recently adjourned legislative session was not the only whirlwind of political activity in the last two months. Usually, the federal government bureaucracy plods along slowly. Not this year. We explore the ramifications on state politics.

Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics polls reveal most Utahns support President Donald Trump’s executive orders and initiatives (banning transgender women from participating in women’s sports, reviewing artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency regulations, etc.) However, they have concerns with other actions (pardons for the January 6 protesters, ending birthright citizenship, etc.). How do the actions of Trump affect Utahns’ political deliberations?

Utah Speaker of the House Mike Schultz was an early leader in keeping biological men out of women’s sports. It’s exciting to have the president supporting policies pioneered in Utah. California Governor Gavin Newsom deserves a participation trophy for his tardy, yet correct engagement on the issue. If only Senate Democrats would stop blocking this popular bi-partisan policy.

Our government is adding Bitcoin to their stockpiles of gold, hedging against the dollar. Tech-forward Utahns widely support this policy further legitimizing cryptocurrency, but the jury is still out for me. Why Bitcoin rather than the thousands of other cryptocurrencies? Bitcoin is already strongly tied to the dollar, minimizing any portfolio diversification benefits. I suggest stockpiling Hermès bags, which are proven to hold value, as a better investment strategy. As a fashionista, I am ready to serve my country and consult Trump’s administration on this critical strategy.

Utahns didn’t love Trump’s pardon for J6 protesters, but they REALLY didn’t love Biden’s pardon for his son. Unpopular pardons from either side are now water under the bridge. Let’s refocus on lasting policies, rather than which political allies received get-out-of-jail-free cards.

Freedom in education is very popular among Utah Republicans. With the Department of Education next on the chopping block, expect parents who fought against extended COVID remote learning and indoctrination over education to be very happy.

PIGNANELLI: “Presidential orders and actions shaped American history long before Trump, for good and bad.” — Chicago Tribune

Executive orders range from the visionary (Emancipation Proclamation) to the awful (relocating Japanese Americans). Further, it is traditional in our republic for the party out of power to grumble about presidential actions and remain silent when they recapture the White House.

In this frenetic activity, Trump is fulfilling many of the promises made in the campaign, with only the occasional court order impeding him. National Democrats are enduring inter-party friction and cannot articulate sound opposition to the president.

Despite concerns about several of Trump’s executive actions, most are meeting the approval of many Utahns. This could embolden similar policy efforts at the state and local levels.

Utah is well-known as a safe place to do business because of the consistency of regulations. The confusion created by Trump’s use of tariffs is unsettling to our local business operations. If not resolved soon, frustrations with inflation and economic instability will mount and possibly overshadow earlier popular proclamations.

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Utah has $37B in import/export activity. What impacts would Trump tariffs have?

Utah will directly feel the effect of specific initiatives in the Trump administration, including relaxing EPA rules and regulations, deportations, closing federal buildings, and terminating employees. Even the University of Utah is listed among 45 universities under investigation for Title VI violations. What’s the impact on our state?

COWLEY: Senator John Curtis pointed out that disruption is necessary. The public wants radical change, but cutting waste is like going on a diet. It’s difficult and requires discipline. The short-term pain of layoffs is a necessary step in securing the long-term financial health of our nation.

The Utah Legislature fully supports ICE deportations of violent criminals. Utahns historically favor compassionate approaches to immigration that keep families together. If there are widespread deportations locally, it could raise concerns from religious leaders.

PIGNANELLI: Energy production in Utah could benefit from relaxation in EPA restrictions. Indeed, the Uinta basin could flourish again with expanded operation explorations and operations. The University of Utah, under the remarkable leadership of Taylor Randall, is already ahead in resolving the DEI issues so that this recent event will be resolved quickly.

Fortunately, Utah ranks as one of the lowest recipients of federal dollars. Yet, some pain will still be felt as jobs are eliminated and programs are diminished.

Will Utah maintain a “complicated relationship” with Donald Trump (and Elon Musk) — supporting policies but having concerns with their approach?

COWLEY: The Trump/Musk bromance is the greatest liability of this administration. Elon and his wizards should stay hidden in a back room, staring at an array of computer monitors, wearing gaming headsets looking for fraud, waste and abuse, then posting their great work on X. Americans don’t want Elon leveraging his position to sell cars. Product endorsements are for social media influencers in “get ready with me” videos, not the Commander in Chief on the South Lawn.

PIGNANELLI: Trump’s style will continue to breed discomfort with Utahns while his policies reflect much of the state’s policy directions. However, if tariffs and other issues create inflation and diminished productivity, locals will demand more traditional conservative approaches.

The Legislature begins!

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

The Utah Legislature convenes this week. This annual event becomes the focal point of Utah policymaking and politics. Thus, your columnists must offer their perspectives.

Gov. Spencer Cox, the Senate Majority Caucus and the House Majority Caucus released priorities for the upcoming session. These include affordability (tax cuts), housing, energy, immigration, water, education, etc. This is a big order for less than seven weeks. What can legislators realistically accomplish, and what should they avoid?

Cowley: Trump declared a national emergency on energy, announcing America would “drill baby, drill.” Utah has a tremendous amount of energy resources, not just oil. For months, the Legislature has been planning a massive undertaking to increase energy production, and up until Trump’s inaugural speech the federal government was their biggest obstacle. The Legislature should take advantage of these political winds.

In a down-budget year, tax cuts will likely be small and frankly de minimis for most Utahns. If they are going to cut taxes, they need to do so in a way that has the most impact and bang for their buck — eliminating the tax on social security benefits.

Knowing when to show restraint is also a worthy legislative virtue. Sometimes the best thing the legislature can do is nothing. Not every inconvenience requires a fix-it bill. Perhaps this year will reverse the trend of passing a record number of bills year after year.

Lastly, they should keep in mind what matters most to people: gas and groceries.

Pignanelli: “Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least.” —Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

This is my 39th legislative session in which I have been involved in lawmaking as a public servant or lobbyist. Although becoming somewhat curmudgeonly, I am still invigorated by the enthusiasm, goodwill and dedication of everyone involved in this representative democracy.

Because the lawmaker reflects his or her constituents (a.k.a hard-working, common-sense Utahns), it is not unrealistic to believe practical results will occur by March 7. However, legislators must remain focused on what has worked and avoid what has not.

Several years ago, legislative leaders readjusted the debate schedule. Emotional, controversial, social and moral issues were not left to the end but instead debated and finalized in the first weeks of the session. This left time for worthy deliberations of the essential budgetary and policy matters. A similar format will serve well this year.

My experience affords me the confidence that good ideas will pass, questionable proposals will quietly fade away and foundations will be established for future considerations. But I also understand that it will be a wild and entertaining ride until adjournment.

National polls in the Wall Street Journal, Fox News and a local survey conducted by the Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics document support for initiatives supported by President Donald Trump and state leaders. But Americans and Utahns want moderation in many of these actions. How will such public sentiment impact legislative deliberations?

Cowley: In Utah, Trump’s policies are more popular than Trump the person. The devil is in the details and as much as voters want secure borders, they don’t want their hard-working neighbor deported. They want to bolster domestic manufacturing but not if everyday goods cost more. Trump made some big promises for his final term. How he tackles these topics will be the difference between midterm gains or losses.

Utahns want compassionate approaches to solving big issues. The legislature’s challenge will be to thread that needle — which is entirely possible. They can protect women’s sports while showing grace to trans athletes. Utah can be an energy-producing superpower, without impacting our air quality. They can enact policies that make the American dream of home ownership attainable, while preserving neighborhoods. Handling these hot-button issues with kindness and empathy will make difficult decisions more palatable to a broad array of voters.

Pignanelli: Whether in polling or other forms of discourse, Utahns clearly communicate that they want practical government solutions. Thus, they support evicting immigrants with criminal records but not those who contribute to the economy and well-being of the nation. Higher education reform is needed while protecting the benefits universities and colleges deliver. Utah parents want their adult children to stay close, so housing incentives are critical. Strong action delivered in a moderate tone and focus is the formula voters request. This pragmatism of Utahns provides a welcome guidance to our leaders.

What role can Democrats play in these policy developments?

Cowley: Energy production, domestic manufacturing, even border wall construction will create a slew of jobs for skilled workers. The stage is set for Democrats to reclaim their role as the party of organized labor if they are willing to promote policies that create blue-collar jobs.

If they choose to fight for the preservation of DEI policies, which Trump has promised to end, they will continue to see similar electoral losses.

Pignanelli: All of the surveys — national and local — indicate citizens want collaboration between the parties. Thus, opportunities exist for Democrats. They can cosponsor realistic solutions supported by Republicans while offering critiques when obvious overreach is apparent. Understanding what Utahns want, not just a narrow slice of the electorate, is critical for relevancy.

Billionaires playing politics

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

The unusual political dynamics percolating around three of the largest social media companies raise questions about national and local impact. We review the intrigue.

Political pundits are either enraged or enthralled by the influence of Elon Musk on the Trump administration. Some claim that the honeymoon phase between Musk and the MAGA mob is waning, while others are nervous about overreach by the billionaire. Should Utahns be concerned?

Cowley: Musk was supposed to carry the banner of the new conservative agenda: America first, cut wasteful government spending and curtail illegal immigration. MAGA supporters are outraged that even before Trump takes office, Musk and Ramaswamy are using their influence to fight for H-1B visas that directly benefit their own companies. Adding to the indictment, Musk is now censoring MAGA influencers on X who are critical of his actions. Musk acquired Twitter, now known as X, because he wanted to end online censorship and promote free speech. That seems to apply only to those who refrain from criticizing him online.

Though H-1B visas are extremely important to our economy and communities, is that really where he needs to exert his time and influence right now? It’s not a great look for Musk, who already has a reputation of doing what benefits him, regardless of the impact to others.

I’m waiting to see just how much Musk will support MAGA if/when the EV tax credits expire.

Pignanelli: “The difficulty with businessmen entering politics after they’ve had a successful business career is that they want to start at the top.” — Harry S. Truman

Wealthy citizens exerting extraordinary influence on our republic is a consistent feature. Banker Stephen Girard financed the nation’s expenses during the War of 1812. The famous 19th-century robber barons and their monopolistic control of railroads, natural resources and commerce directly impacted national and state politics. JP Morgan reorganized our economy after bailing out the federal government — twice. Henry Ford II and William Knudsen (GM) refashioned the country’s industrial output for WWII. William Randolph Hearst controlled the newspapers in all major American cities and significantly affected domestic and foreign policy decisions.

Thus, precedence exists that the individual who led the innovation of electric vehicles and space technology plays a prominent role in American politics. However, in the 21st century, constitutional and practical checks and balances ensure that Musk’s input will likely be positive but not dominant.

The Supreme Court heard arguments on whether to uphold congressional action requiring TikTok to be sold to an American company by Chinese parent company Bytedance. Allegations of First Amendment rights and national security concerns are in the center of the dispute. A Court ruling could force the closure of the popular app (used by 150 million Americans) in the United States. How could this impact Utah businesses and families?

Cowley: Social media represents more than mindless scrolling of lipsyncing videos, “get ready with me” vlogs or sourdough-making tips (but really, if you have tips, do share). It’s an e-commerce platform for many Utah small businesses to sell their wares. It also provides an income stream for numerous stay-at-home moms and more. Should TikTok get banned, it will mean lost income for the people and businesses who monetize the app.

The clearest path to prevent TikTok from being banned is for China to sell its American assets to Shark Tank’s “Mr. Wonderful,” Kevin O’Leary, or Elon Musk. Cue the liberal hand-wringing now.

Pignanelli: Concerns about TikTok differ from those with other applications. The company’s owners are obligated to cooperate with the Chinese government, which causes worries. Thus, security issues push hard against economic considerations.

Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg shut down the fact checker program on Facebook and Instagram and will be utilizing community notes instead. Many view this as an about-face and concession to President Trump. Is it? How will Utah users view the change?

Cowley: My my, what a full-circle moment this has turned out to be. Zuckerberg was justifiably put through the ringer after his one-sided censorship during COVID but later indicated regret over those actions. He made a terrible judgement call and is rectifying it. Some criticize him for bending the knee to Trump, attributing it seeking favor after a shift in political power but I say, come on in, Mark, the conservative waters are fine!

Utah grannies (the only ones still on Facebook) will barely notice the reemergence of uncensored speech on their feed, intermingled with posts about their grandkids’ soccer tournaments, but it is an important change that free speech advocates applaud.

Free speech is always in vogue, regardless of what party is in power or what crisis we are facing. There is a reason why free speech is the FIRST Amendment. All others are subject to manipulation if varying viewpoints cannot be shared, debated and discussed openly.

Pignanelli: Americans and Utahns have become increasingly suspect of “fact checkers.” The pandemic significantly elevated this emotion. Furthermore, there is a perception that politicians on the right (from the president down the ballot) were scrutinized more than the left. The internet has so many sources of information that citizens can double-check any statements and make their own decisions.

How will Trump’s immigration actions play in Utah?

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

As we count down the days till President-elect Donald Trump takes office, efforts are already underway to enact policies on Day 1. We discuss the implications for Utah and how the weighty topic of immigration might impact the upcoming session.

America First Legal, run by Stephen Miller, a Trump adviser, sent 250 jurisdictions across the U.S. letters, warning them against interference of Trump’s deportation policies. How will Utah respond?

Cowley: After an electoral landslide nationwide, Trump and fellow Republicans feel the wind at their backs to implement the policies they campaigned on, including radical changes to immigration.

Historically, Utah has had a nuanced approach to immigration policies. It was Utah’s own Orrin Hatch who sponsored the DREAM Act. Utahns support a compassionate approach — enforcing the rule of law while preserving families and acknowledging immigrants’ contributions to our economy and communities. It is incumbent upon Utah’s federal delegation to, at long last, pass meaningful immigration reform while honoring this ethos.

Pignanelli: “Voters are tired of endless talk without real progress. The immediate agenda is clear: secure the border, deport criminals, and sort out the rest from there.” — Brett Buerck, CEO Majority Strategies

Americans are proud descendants of those who immigrated (voluntarily or involuntarily) and created this incredible country. (Even indigenous peoples’ ancestors were travelers.) This shared heritage yields interesting results in various surveys.

Pew Research reveals 87% of Americans believe highly skilled immigrant workers should be given priority to stay in the United States. Almost 80% support legal migrants who can fill the labor shortage. Yet, the National Immigration Forum and the Bullfinch Group demonstrate over two-thirds of Americans — of all political stripes — want violent criminals and those with deportation orders to be immediately expelled.

A recent Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll documents that 86% of Utahns expect immigrants lacking permanent legal status who committed a crime to be deported. This includes an overwhelming majority of Hispanic, Democrat and Kamala Harris voters.

Whether through executive order or congressional action (which stalled for too long), bipartisan support exists to remove the dangerous visitors. How federal and state officials conduct this endeavor will demonstrate their ability to succeed with a clear mandate.

In 2010, Utah elected officials and business and religious leaders came together to support the Utah Compact, a set of five principles surrounding immigration. What is in the Utah Compact, and does it conflict with Trump’s policies?

Cowley: A key tenet of the compact is not separating families. If criminal immigrants have families in the Beehive State, their deportation may run afoul of this value.

The Utah economy benefits from immigrants in the workforce, from agriculture to manufacturing to high-skilled tech jobs. Utah continually wins awards as the best state for business, in part because of the contributions from immigrants. If Trump policies cause a chilling effect on these laborers coming to Utah, state revenues will sink, even more than they are this year. This can only be counteracted by Congress making legal immigration more attainable.

At the center of the compact’s guiding principles are both an acknowledgement of the rule of law and call for compassion. These are not diametric principles. Focusing on arresting criminals, rather than engaging in a wholesale roundup of all immigrants living in the country illegally, is an act of compassion toward those abiding by our laws and contributing to society.

Remember, Utah Republicans have not shown the same outpouring of support for Trump as many other red states — an important fact for the Utah Legislature and federal delegation to be mindful of.

Pignanelli: I enjoy multiple reasons to be proud of my state and our people. High on that list is the Utah Compact. The National Immigration Forum survey asked 1,200 adults: “In accordance with American values, family unity, respect for human dignity, and protection for the persecuted must remain key priorities as the government increases border security and immigration enforcement.” Seventy-five percent of Americans, including Republicans, agreed. The compact encompasses these elements. Utah is ahead of the curve to guide officials in developing correct immigration policies.

The Utah House of Representatives outlined their framework for addressing immigration in a press conference Monday. What can we expect to see this session on immigration?

Cowley: The deficient federal response to curtail the influx of illegal immigration on our southern border has left Utah leaders to deal with the consequences. On Monday, the Legislature unveiled their plans to crack down on criminal behavior of immigrants without legal status. They will address the surge of criminal activities including fentanyl trafficking, accidents from unlicensed drivers, squatters and property damage, gang violence preying on youth and more. The net result, intentional or not, will be increasing the pool of convicted criminals that may get deported under the Trump regime.

From an operational perspective, once these criminals are incarcerated in Utah jails and prisons, it will require coordination with state agencies to release them to ICE, should it come to that.

Pignanelli: This press conference, conducted by House leadership, may have been the most efficient media event in history. Lawmakers and other officials crisply identified legislation and policies that will be pursued in the upcoming session to foster changes in immigration, especially targeting criminals. Members of Congress are advised to watch how such communications should be conducted.

Politicians’ wishes for 2025!

Politicians and political prognosticators are ringing in the new year with preparations for the upcoming Utah legislative session and presidential inauguration. What are the hopes of national and local politicos for the new year?

Utah legislators and lobbyists alike: Better-than-expected revenue projections. Final budget numbers will be available in February, but the budget looks lean for now.

Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy: To find appalling government waste, they can cut PDQ that will please the MAGA mob enough to forget about their current differences in immigration policies.

President-elect Donald Trump: End the war in Ukraine, pacify Russia, stabilize Gaza, contain Hamas, finish the border wall, expel convicted criminal immigrants, make a deal with some American company to buy TikTok, reduce inflation and restore American manufacturing, preferably all in the first 100 days of his presidency. No problem, right?

President Joseph Biden: To enjoy his golden years of retirement, go on vacations and take long naps — just not in the Oval Office.

House Speaker Mike Johnson: To be reelected speaker this week — after only one ballot — and deflect challenges for the rest of his term, of course, after he sends President-elect Trump a fruit basket and heartfelt thank-you card for his continued endorsement.

Health and Human Services Secretary nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr.: That Americans use those gym memberships Santa delivered and learn to avoid processed food.

Mayor Jenny Wilson, Mayor Erin Mendenhall and Ryan Smith: A resolution of the planning and funding for the sports and entertainment district. Oh, and that the Utah Hockey Club has a winning season.

Sen.-elect John Curtis: The honeymoon with the media continues and aids in his attempts to build coalitions and strengthen his influence.

Sen. Mike Lee: Aspires for even more opportunities to cite germane sections of the Constitution and Federalist Papers from memory while chairing the Senate’s Energy and Natural Resources Committee.

Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz: Is holding his breath that universities across the country come to their senses and protect women’s sports.

Utah Senate President Stuart Adams: He remains optimistic that he will move the needle on high-speed rail.

Utah Democrats: Pray Musk, Ramaswamy and the MAGA warriors overstep their mandate.

Utah’s university and college presidents: That their proposed reallocation of state funds is enough to satisfy legislative leaders.

Cowley: My greatest hope for the new year is that after crafting funding and zoning accommodations for hockey and baseball teams, the Legislature refocuses its efforts on the most important sport — rodeo — and incorporates a fully operational rodeo arena into the ongoing Capitol complex redevelopment plans. Hey, a cowgirl can dream, can’t she?

Pignanelli: As Utah continues to grow and prosper, the availability of excellent Italian food also expands.

With the Utah legislative session just a few weeks away, what do your humble authors anticipate being the big issues that make headlines during the most tumultuous 45 days of Utah politics?

We are importing energy for the first time in our state’s history. Lawmakers will focus on expanding options for power generation. Air quality and environmental impacts will be a part of these conversations as energy producers and the Legislature explore innovative solutions to unlock Utah’s energy-producing potential while safeguarding the health of residents.

Although Utah is growing, tax revenues are down, signifying a cooling economy. Capitol Hill and the media will ponder what this means for employment, tax policies, etc.

Growth, impacts of homelessness, affordable housing and transportation will force creativity to find solutions when funding is limited.

Christmas characters as political figures

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

If literary and cinematic Christmas characters were in politics or current affairs, what roles would they have? We offer our suggestions.

Ebenezer Scrooge, “A Christmas Carol”: He knows how to make money and, eventually, how to give it away — perfect for Secretary of the Treasury.

Marley brothers, “A Muppet Christmas Carol”: It almost doesn’t feel like a joke because it is so accurate. Still, the similarities between Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy and these lovable curmudgeons are almost uncanny. Marley and Marley would be co-directors of the Department of Government Efficiency. They have a breadth of experience criticizing others from the gallery.

The Grinch, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!”: We’re unsure about what kind of creature he is, but he possesses the qualifications needed to serve as a border czar. His credentials include building a fortress, impenetrable to perceived undesirables, the Whos from Whoville, until he met a well-intentioned, heart-of-gold intruder — Cindy Lou Who, who softened his stance on outsiders.

Ralphie Parker, “A Christmas Story”: The boy is passionate about guns and has real-world experience with gun safety. Who better to head up the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives?

Frosty, “Frosty the Snowman”: Intolerant to warm weather, a jovial, always polite demeanor and a magic hat (needed to raise tariffs) makes him the perfect candidate for ambassador to Canada.

Clark Griswold, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”: Congress is known to be rowdy, full of strong personalities, diverse priorities and an almost zoo-like atmosphere. Clark would be a strong candidate to serve as the U.S. House of Representatives speaker. He’s dedicated to bringing people together in the name of magical family holiday togetherness.

Buddy the Elf, “Elf”: The exact opposite of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Buddy would be a bold pick for Health and Human Services Director. He promotes the four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corn and syrup. This is a candidate the sugar industry lobbyists and many soda-loving Utahns would support.

Rudolph, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”: His years of experience flying through turbulent airspace and navigating aircraft defects qualify him to lead the Federal Aviation Administration.

Santa Claus (of every movie): Directs an army of elves, traverses the globe campaigning to keep approval ratings high and oversees the manufacturing behemoth that powers the thriving economy of Christmas. There is no question Santa would serve as commander in chief.

Mr. Potter, “It’s a Wonderful Life”: A shrewd miser of funds, Mr. Potter would easily assume the most depressing, thankless job of chairman of the Federal Reserve.

Mogwai, “Gremlins”: A perfect profile for whatever shady character is operating all those drones in New Jersey.

Santa’s elves: Leadership in the Department of Labor, protecting domestic manufacturing, ensuring the Keebler elves abroad are not making cheaper products and importing them, thus taking jobs from hardworking domestic elves.

Burgermeister Meisterburger, “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town”: Well-suited to fill the role of authoritarian leader of any country antagonistic to the U.S.

John McClain, “Die Hard”: A militant figure with the experience of battling the stateless villains of the 21st century as secretary of defense. And yes, “Die Hard” IS a Christmas movie!

George Bailey, “It’s a Wonderful Life”: A man dedicated to serving his community and providing pathways to achieve the American dream, an obvious candidate for Housing and Urban Development secretary.

Kevin McCallister, “Home Alone”: No one has more credentials to create a fortress of security, anticipate adversaries’ moves, and take down bad guys intent on infiltration. He would be a shoo-in for the Homeland Security director.

Cindy Lou Who, “The Grinch”: The epitome of class and grace, especially when facing an entrenched opponent. Her cordiality and decorum can melt the heart of any stonewalling adversary. Cindy would be an excellent first lady.

Frank Cross, “Scrooged”: Selfish to his core, Frank Cross would need no audition to assume the on-camera roles of ambitious, ruthless, heartless media moguls that inspire bipartisan hate.

The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, “A Christmas Carol”: A natural role for special interest activists ranging from climate change to national debt alarmists, professing dystopian predictions of humanity-ending outcomes if the nation does not change.

Charlie Brown, “A Charlie Brown Christmas”: Appropriations chairmen are known for creating “Christmas tree” bills for others to hang their financial requests on. Charlie Brown may have selected the humble tree, but his cohorts made it an opulent conifer.

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Wallace and Davis, “White Christmas”: These famous performers know it takes more than a song and dance to care for veterans, who deserve top-notch care and dignity. They are an easy pick for managing Veterans Affairs.

Kris Kringle, “Miracle on 34th Street”: The elderly, kind gentleman who the U.S. Postal System acknowledged as Santa Claus will make a very popular postmaster.

Conductor, “Polar Express”: This famous train enthusiast adheres to a rigid schedule. He would be perfect for secretary of transportation.

We want to give a special thanks to Holly Meagher for inspiring this week’s column. If you have ideas for topics you want to see us cover, please send us an email. We wish you a happy holiday season!

Political draft season is in full swing!

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

Cowley: For perhaps the first time ever, TMZ and MSNBC headlines are identical on Trump’s unconventional cabinet appointments. I’m not sure if you can call them the Avengers or the X-Men, but what is apparent is this cabinet is intended to upset the Washington, D.C., apple cart, also known as the “deep state.” Donald Trump said throughout his campaign that he mistakenly appointed too many “experts” from inside the Beltway. This dramatic, celebrity-centered course correction is intended to majorly reform the federal government. Here is who I will be keeping my eye on:

FBI director: Kash Patel said he would empty the Hoover Building. Will he or won’t he?

Defense secretary: Pete Hegseth. Looks like central casting for the hero of an action movie.

Department of Government Efficiency: Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy. This will have the most sweeping impact on the federal government — whether good or bad, only time will tell.

Health and Human Services Director: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. I’m all about MAHA, so bring it on.

Director of National Intelligence: Tulsi Gabbard. Do I know exactly what this role is? No. Am I eager to see what she does? Absolutely.

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator: Dr. Mehmet Oz. Oh boy.

Secretary of Transportation: Sean Duffy. Fox celebrity No. 1.

U.S. Ambassador to Israel: Mike Huckabee. Fox celebrity No. 2.

U.S. Ambassador to France: Charles Kushner. Terrible idea. Surely there are other qualified individuals without a familial connection to the commander in chief.

White House press secretary: Karoline Leavitt. What was I doing at age 27? Nothing even remotely this cool. Get it, girl!

And finally, shoutout to the BYU graduate and Latter-day Saint Jamieson Greer, Chief Trade representative.

Pignanelli: “The necessity of (Senate) concurrence would have a powerful, though, in general, a silent operation … and would tend greatly to prevent the appointment of unfit characters.” – Alexander Hamilton, Federalist Papers No. 76

The only other president elected to nonconsecutive terms was Grover Cleveland, who did not seek the reappointment of his former cabinet members. Trump is following this narrow precedent.

More importantly, Trump utilizes his previous experience to work fast with a flurry of nominations. While this is causing a flummox in traditional D.C. circles, it does play into his persona as a disruptor.

Further, Trump’s announcements force business and foreign leaders to negotiate with him six weeks before the inauguration. We now have two presidents formulating and implementing policy.

Utah leaders will work well with the proposed Interior secretary, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. Also, it should be no surprise that Musk and Ramaswamy will look to Utah’s governance as a guide to efficient government.

Senators are doing their best to refrain from offering declarations of how they will vote and make statements of deference to the president’s constitutional authority to appoint. So far, they have been discreetly exercising Hamilton’s predictions.

Will there be changes in Utah Gov. Spencer Cox’s administration?

Cowley: It is common to see minor changes in cabinet positions after the election. Gov. Cox and Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson have assembled a strong cast to support their policy priorities. If any leave, it will likely be to pursue new opportunities, not due to political pressure.

Pignanelli: In the past, some governors required all cabinet members and other major appointments to submit a resignation letter, and only a few would ultimately be accepted. Presidents elected in a different political party from the immediate past incumbent often want a clean sweep to ensure their agenda is followed.

But Utah is different.

The last time there was a political power change was 40 years ago. Also, Utah chief executives have a strong track record of appointing competent administrators. While natural attrition occurs, there is little justification for significant changes, as the state has been well governed.

Cox will likely hold over many of his first-term appointments, but they will eventually move on to seek different endeavors. Cox assembled a good team, and there is little need for significant change.

The state Legislature announced new committee assignments. What changed and what does it mean for the upcoming legislative session?

Cowley & Pignanelli: The shakeup in Senate leadership altered their committee landscape, while many chairs held their important positions. The most significant change in the House is rural Rep. Bridger Bolinder’s, R-Grantsville, new chairmanship of Health and Human Services and Rep. Jordan Teuscher, R-South Jordan, as Rules Chair.

Renae is excited to see members of a younger generation (Gen X), Sen. Kirk Cullimore, R-Draper, and Sen. Mike McKell, R-Spanish Fork, taking the reins in two leadership positions in the Senate, normally reserved for more patinaed lawmakers. Like Sen. Mitt Romney said, “it is time for a new generation of leaders.”

Frank is gleeful that many “more seasoned” lawmakers have maintained or been awarded key positions. These include a powerful committee, Business and Labor, that is in the steady hands of the well-respected and experienced Sen. Evan Vickers, R-Cedar City. Sen. Ann Millner, R-Ogden, (former Weber State president) will now co-chair Higher Education Appropriations.