Maloy, Edwards, Hough. Who holds the advantage in this congressional race?

All 3 candidates are well qualified for the position and would represent the district well. But who will voters lean toward?

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

Politicos have been enjoying a wonderful summer diversion — a special election in the 2nd Congressional District. The GOP primary is less than a month away, and mail-in ballots go out in just a few days. The GOP campaign featuring candidates Celeste Maloy, Becky Edwards and Bruce Hough is well underway.

What are politicos and veteran observers saying about the race — who is leading, who has been brilliant and who has made mistakes?

Pignanelli: “In politics and chess, players make strategic decisions that put them ahead of competitors and to cause opponents setbacks that deviate from the objective to win the game.” — Receto Politico  

The Republican special election primary is a three-way chess match. At the beginning of the contest, the triumvirate candidates were equally matched with advantages and disadvantages. Thus, clever offensive and defensive strategies will determine the ultimate winner.

Edwards garnered her signatures through an incredible volunteer effort. Hough demonstrated he has the resources, and willingness to use them, to obtain signatures. Maloy understands convention delegates and was awarded ballot placement. These achievements demonstrate all are competitive. 

Several polls differ as to which candidates are ahead by just a few points. But all of the surveys reveal a large undecided voter block anywhere from 40% to 55%. No one is the undisputed leader.

The current debates are providing media immediate attention to Hough and Maloy. Questions abound whether Edward’s refusal to participate in the debates is a dangerous or smart ploy. Yet, she is on the air with television commercials.

Various chess moves are now being utilized to capture pieces and defend respective bases. Triangular politics has never been so interesting.

Webb: As I’ve said previously, I like all these candidates. All three are well qualified. Any of them would represent the district well.

A special election primary in an off-year is bound to be very low turnout. Therefore, the winner will be the candidate who can most effectively target with persuasive messaging those who will actually vote. In such a short campaign, it makes no sense to waste time trying to convert people who don’t vote, or to try to bring in new voters. The winner will focus intensely on active voters.

This requires lots of one-on-one and small group contact with GOP activists, who are certain voters. That’s why I think it was a mistake for Edwards to decline to participate in a dozen debates held all across the district. These debates, initiated by candidate Maloy, are being hosted in many cases by county GOP leaders and are covered by local media. Those attending and paying attention are party stalwarts — exactly the people the campaigns must reach.

This campaign requires massive grassroots organizing and effective get-out-the-vote efforts. It is a mostly behind-the-scenes campaign, deploying highly targeted social media and direct mail, personal phone calls, word-of-mouth, neighbor-to-neighbor contact and effective use of GOP influencers. It is very hard work, requiring discipline, focus and long hours. The winner will definitely earn the victory.

Hough has decades of experience in business and in the GOP, and plenty of money for a strong campaign. Edwards also has significant resources, was an effective Utah legislator, and is running hard. Maloy has excellent experience as a congressional staffer and has won the endorsement of her boss, retiring incumbent Chris Stewart. She also was the surprise favorite of GOP delegates. 

Although only a fourth of the state will be eligible to vote, all Utahns will experience the flavor of the battle. What should be expected from the Republican contenders in the next several weeks?

Pignanelli: Because many voters are undecided, this will be a contest of the most compelling messages. Hough can utilize his unique background of a successful businessperson. Maloy will press her experience in helping Chris Stewart on several high-profile conservative fronts. Edwards will parlay her record in the Utah House as required expertise for Congress. But these will not be enough to move the needle. An emotional tug is needed.

For example, Hough can claim that he is the only candidate who voted for the Republican presidential nominee in 2020 (Maloy did not vote and Edwards selected Joe Biden) and is best suited to confront a liberal administration. Maloy and Edwards will need equally compelling arguments beyond their credentials.

Mercifully, the election season is short, so the bombardment of commercials will be limited.

Webb: All three are reasonable conservatives without a lot of disagreement on basic issues. So they will try to differentiate themselves in other ways. Trump-world will, unfortunately, play a role as many party activists will only support a candidate who is completely loyal to Trump, while others will want someone more independent.

Will national pundits offer any perspectives?

Pignanelli: National media are covering the race with earnest interest. The issues resonating with Utah Republicans this fall will establish issues for contests in other states and the presidential debates.

Webb: Special elections are closely watched nationally for any signs or clues about the mood of the electorate and anything that might be relevant to the big elections next year. National pundits will especially monitor how much the Trump circus influences this election.

Can you value good character, but also support Donald Trump?

In a recent poll, 33% of Utah voters want moral character in a leader, but 29% of Utah Republicans would also vote for Donald Trump

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

Character has always been an important consideration for Utahns when evaluating candidates for office. This speaks to the strong moral fiber of the state. We examine new polling on this issue and developments in presidential politics.

A recent Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll revealed that when asked what qualities they wanted in a leader, the highest plurality, 33% of Utah voters, stated moral character and 17% trustworthiness. (The remaining 50% was comprised of various other attributes.) The survey also disclosed that among GOP voters, Donald Trump has increased his lead over Ron DeSantis, 29% to 24% (other candidates received 6% or less). Given the controversies plaguing the former president for many years, is there an incongruity here?

Pignanelli: “We’re halfway done with this year now, and the story of the primary has been Trump, Trump, Trump. It’s hard for any of these (other candidates) to get oxygen at all.” — Jonathan Martin, Politico 

A wonderful feature of this poll documents Utahns of all political affiliations and demographics value character in leaders. Interestingly, Americans in other states prize strength more than personal integrity. This explains why Utah suffers few political scandals and enjoys effective government. Our politicians, appointed officials and community leaders can differ dramatically in their public policy positions. Yet they all share a common fundamental — dedication to moral and ethical conduct.

This virtue compels Utahns to expect more from their officials than from those serving in D.C. from other areas. We swallow hard in supporting national leaders on either side that strongly advocate needed policies but with lower personal standards. This acknowledgment to reality clarifies how local Republicans support Donald Trump. (Democrats endured similar pain through unflinching support to a beleaguered president 25 years ago. The current occupant is also not an easy gulp.)

Our citizens must be reminded that a commitment to character pays dividends of moral conduct and efficient governance. Hopefully, the “Utah Way” of virtuous leadership will urge a nationwide trend.

Webb: Yes, supporting Trump while valuing moral character is highly contradictory. But there’s a reason for it, and Democrats, the liberal news media, the Washington establishment (deep state), Hollywood and the elite tech companies are all to blame.

Through their persecution, numerous investigations, impeachment and general harassment of Trump over the last eight years (some of it justified, some of it not), plus their embrace of liberal, woke, profligate politics, these mostly left-wing institutions have managed to elevate Trump to superstar status. In the eyes of his supporters, he’s a true American hero, the only politician with the guts and capability to stand against the liberal mob.

This is awfully appealing to conservative, middle-class, fly-over America — salt-of-the-earth citizens who are fearful of the direction their country is headed. These folks are more than willing to ignore or forgive Trump’s numerous and serious character flaws. To support Trump is to give the proverbial middle finger to all those left-wing institutions they dislike. And while they admit Trump has some flaws, the alternative (a second term for Joe Biden) is much worse.

I sympathize with much of that sentiment. But, for me, Trump’s outright lies, his incredible disloyalty, his enormous ego and his treatment of women as playthings are disqualifying. I have liked many of his policies, and I agree that Democrats and the Washington establishment have unfairly and sometimes illegally tried to destroy him.

But I no longer trust his judgment. I worry that his pettiness, erratic behavior and recklessness would get us into a war or take us on a path of isolationism and retreat from the world stage.

Trouble is, I don’t trust or like Joe Biden any better.

Trump’s legal challenges are expected to continue with additional indictments and court dates in coming weeks and months. As presidential politics heats up, Trump will be dividing time between campaign events and courtroom activities. Will this impact the presidential campaign nationally and in Utah?

Pignanelli: The well-respected New York Times/Siena poll recently explained that Trump is supported by 54% of GOP voters while DeSantis has fallen to 17% (with the others far behind). These results reflect the recent indictments. Nothing is slowing the Trump juggernaut.

Normally, Trump’s distraction of paying legal fees from donations and attending endless court hearings would cripple his campaign. But his effective “I am the victim fighting for you” message is energizing support. Other candidates have little time to develop a strategy that appeals to the party faithful.

Webb: For Trump’s base, indictments are just more of the same persecution. The hate-Trumpers have cried wolf so many times that most Republicans just ignore them. Plus, they see a double standard as Democratic scandals (see: the Biden family) are handled very delicately.

Another Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll also reaffirmed that Gov. Spencer Cox continues to enjoy a solid approval rating of 63%. What could be his influence in the upcoming election season?

Pignanelli: The environment for the upcoming election will be toxic. Americans may find solace with a young popular Republican governor, espousing tempered, respectful voicing of disagreements.

Webb: Cox is a refreshing politician. He’ll need to find the right balance of niceness and toughness to be influential beyond Utah.

Cox, Romney and the Supreme Court — 3 political stories, explained

Amid the July holidays, you might have missed the latest political news. Pignanelli and Webb are here to catch you up

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

Utah is blessed in many ways, especially because we enjoy two holidays in July! While that results in more vacation and fun activities, news items are sometimes missed amid all the celebrations. At least three significant recent events of interest in the political world were covered by national and local media. We set aside our hot dogs and lemonade to explain.

Gov. Spencer Cox was sworn in as chair of the National Governors Association. At the conference, Cox announced his initiative “Disagree Better” to help Americans bridge the partisan divide and adopt a more positive approach to political and social discourse. Without such decency, Cox believes solving problems is impossible. Can Cox impact political deliberations?

Pignanelli: “We often refuse to accept an idea merely because the tone of voice in which it has been expressed is unsympathetic to us.” — Friedrich Nietzsche

Family fights are often started not by the content of a statement but through manner of delivery. Volume and inflection can mean the difference between earnest resolution of differences or long-standing grudges. (With Italian Irish ethnic origins, I have deep experience of offending, and being offended, in such circumstances.)

Cox is a conservative. Yet, some GOP activists doubt his allegiance to correct principles because he is not shrill. Others mock his efforts for dignified discussions as a silly endeavor. Regardless of these critiques, Cox’s defense of right-wing beliefs in a reasonable and gracious manner prevents those who disagree with him from claiming an affront.

Public policy decorations laced with cynicism and patronizing insults will accomplish nothing, whereas levelheaded explanations, touched with openness to alternatives, offer opportunities. Only then will the critical issues of the debt, environment, immigration, and others be resolved.

Cox deserves compliments for promoting use of a tool utilized by millions every day in strained family discussions — a friendly tenor.

Webb: I’m all for civility and niceness, with the stipulation that sometimes sharp disagreement and criticism are warranted. A lot of political attack dogs, assassins and purveyors of truly terrible public policy exist out there. A group hug won’t deter them from truly damaging the country.

But even bitter disputes can avoid the sort of name-calling and nastiness displayed by Donald Trump every day. The Cox initiative is a worthwhile effort even though it won’t be embraced by congressional gladiators.

It is uncommon for a first-term governor to ascend to NGA chair, which rotates between Republican and Democratic governors each year. Many dynamics play into which governors ascend through NGA leadership to become chair, and they work it out among themselves without election disputes. Cox obviously has respect and support among his fellow GOP governors for them to elect him as chair in his first term.

NGA chair initiatives range widely, but usually deal with some public policy issue such as education, energy, cyber security, etc., where there isn’t strong partisan disagreement. The Cox initiative is quite different from the typical focus of an NGA chair.

Utah’s last two NGA chairs were Gary Herbert and Mike Leavitt. Both of them focused on strengthening American states and finding public policy solutions at state and local levels. At this time of unprecedented division and political coarseness, here’s hoping the Cox initiative can have a positive impact. 

U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney remains silent about reelection plans, but his potential opponents were busy. House Speaker Brad Wilson scored attention with his campaign haul of $2.2 million (over a million from himself). Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs reported $220,000. What are the implications for the race next year?

Pignanelli: Wilson was hoping to make a splash in the initial report. It was a tidal wave. Listed were natural contributors from the development and political communities. They were low hanging fruit, and he took bushels of them.

Wilson’s report also documents statewide support. Already enjoying a reputation for being a successful businessman and for making tough decisions in the Legislature, he is a contender regardless of Romney’s decision.

Although substantially less, Staggs’ report indicates an ability to raise some money in a short amount of time. He will need a strong play with convention delegates — where his politics are popular — to establish competitiveness against Wilson.

Webb: Wilson is obviously a serious candidate, and this will be an exciting race to watch. I expect Romney will seek reelection. It appears he is enjoying Senate life and he’s having an impact. He will have plenty of money for his campaign.

The race will attract national attention, not because Republicans are in danger of losing a seat, but because it will be viewed as a referendum on Trump. Romney has been Trump’s harshest Republican critic in the U.S. Senate.

The Utah Supreme Court heard arguments challenging legislative boundary changes to Congressional districts. What do politicos conjecture about the decision?

Pignanelli: Expert observers have opined the court seemed sympathetic to differing perspectives. Such care in the public deliberations is wise because no matter the result, political turmoil will ensue.

Webb: I have no idea how the Supremes will rule. I hope they will leave redistricting to elected officials who are closest to the people and reflect their values and wishes.

Here are the floats we wish we would see on July 24

From the governor to the Utah Jazz, here are our recommendations

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

It was 176 years ago when Brigham Young stopped his wagon high in Emigration Canyon. Looking down over the broad expanse of the Salt Lake Valley, he uttered those memorable words: “This is the right place!” He then proceeded with his remarkable group of courageous refugees to settle the Utah Territory. (Although because of Utah’s winters and summers, many hoped he would continue to San Diego.) Ever since then, regardless of one’s religious affiliation, our state celebrates the 24th of July — and especially the Days of ’47 Parade. Politicians and interest groups love to participate in this popular event, usually smiling and waving from ornate floats and nice vehicles. Always civic minded, your columnists again proposed great ideas for fun and interesting float themes and banners for these politicians and other groups. Inexplicably, none of them embraced our suggestions. (A sign of common sense?) Nevertheless, here are our sober recommendations for a wonderful and unforgettable parade:

Gov. Spencer Cox: On a large farm flatbed trailer pulled by a tractor, standing erect and tall with the banner, “Your governor: Vanquishing social media, incivility and drought.”

Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson: Riding a large turkey-looking float with the loudspeaker proclaiming the message: “Remember, this year you can plan your Thanksgiving Dinner and complete the election ballot at the same time. Election day is Nov. 21.”

Salt Lake City Airport Authority Board and airport Director Bill Wyatt: All carrying a banner, “Proud to be your airport and making Utahns much healthier with long walks on Concourse A.”

Little Cottonwood Canyon gondola supporters: A group of ski resort developers marching with the banner, “Get polluting cars off the road (and more skiers to our resorts).”

GOP primary congressional candidates: Three contenders, Celeste Maloy, Becky Edwards and Bruce Hough, will be on a float doing a delicate dance, demonstrating how they will attract Trump supporters without being saddled with his baggage.

Those other congressional candidates: Democrat Kathleen Riebe and United Utah January Walker will walk the route holding a sign, “Republicans are boring. Try something new.”

Friends of the Great Salt Lake conservation group: They will be riding bicycles shouting, “Thank you, but keep those lawns yellow. One good winter is not enough.”

U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney: Riding in a stylish convertible waving to the crowd and shouting, “Hello Utah. Still deciding. No need to rush.”

Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson: Also riding in a convertible, waving to the crowd shouting, “Hello Utah. I have decided. I’ve raised 2.2 million reasons to stay in the Senate race.”

Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs: Riding a unicycle and holding a sign, “Also running for U.S. Senate. Underdogs can win!”

U.S. Sen. Mike Lee: Riding a horse, sword in hand, with a sign, “Leading the charge against out-of-control wokeness.”

The Salt Lake Bees organization: Marching and carrying a banner, “South Jordan isn’t that far away and we’ll still offer quality triple-A professional baseball at minor-league prices.”

Utah hockey fans: Carrying the banner, “Major league hockey is faster, funner and cheaper than major-league baseball. Just sayin’.”

Utah Senate President Stuart Adams: In a convertible with a sign, “Quiet, competent leadership produces great results for Utah.”

Redistricting Commission members: Carrying a banner, “Gerrymandering is dead (we hope). We have faith in the Utah Supreme Court.”

Utah’s congressional delegation and GOP legislators: Marching and carrying a banner, “Hey, drawing voting district lines always makes someone really mad. We just prefer unhappy Democrats over unhappy Republicans.”

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall: Atop a huge float decorated with protesters, bicyclists, tree huggers and the banner, “Salt Lake City. You hate our politics but love to party here.”

Mayoral candidate Rocky Anderson: Walking with the banner, “Please ignore all those people having fun. This city is a disaster.”

Utah Jazz organization: Owner Ryan Smith, team CEO Danny Ainge and coach Will Hardy in a jacked-up pickup truck with the banner, “Still rebuilding, but this might be a pretty good year.”

U. of U. President Taylor Randall: In a convertible pulling a billboard, “The Pac-12 may be in disarray, but we are winning the championships.”

BYU President C. Shane Reese: In a Conestoga wagon, carrying a sign, “Those dusty plains and rocky ridges of independence were tough. But Big 12. This is the place — the Promised Land.”

Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson: Riding in a convertible with a bullhorn, “Remember the necessary loud voice in the wilderness of Republicans.”

Utah Democratic Party Chair Diane Lewis: Atop a float with a sign, “Inflation is down, Ukraine is winning, employment is high. Thank you, President Biden!”

Utah Republican Chair Rob Axson: Riding in a big truck, with a big sign: “Why Republicans win: Biden, Schumer, Pelosi. Need I say more?!”

Frank Pignanelli and LaVarr Webb: Wearing clown outfits, trudging along at parade’s end, carrying shovels and a sign saying, “Horses and politicians produce emissions. We shovel it. It’s a dirty job, but now you know where we get our column material.”

Making sense of the 2nd District special election race in Utah

Celeste Maloy was the surprise winner of the GOP convention, but she will face Becky Edwards and likely Bruce Hough in a primary

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

The 2nd Congressional District contest is a sugar high for political junkies, especially in a hot summer off-year election. Here are some additional bonbons to chew on.

A majority of delegates at the June 28 Republican convention selected Celeste Maloy as their nominee. But politicos are still reeling from allegations that she did not satisfy all the technical requirements. Her name was officially submitted by the party, so she will be on the ballot, but that has not eliminated the controversy. Will this be an issue in the Sept. 5 primary election or will voters care about other matters when selecting the Republican nominee? 

Pignanelli: “The technicalities matter a lot, but the unifying vision matters more.” — Ted Nelson

Many officials, especially lawmakers, are miffed about this issue. All GOP candidates for federal, state and local partisan offices are bound by the same state law — they must be a member of the party when filing for office. Technically, Maloy was not a registered voter with a statement of party affiliation when she submitted her declaration. Thus, the frustration.

However, Maloy’s GOP bona fides are impeccable, with endorsements from Congressmen Chris Stewart and Rob Bishop, along with others. Claims she is some outsider manipulating the system will be difficult.

This controversy is “insider baseball” that will be diffused by the primary election. But legislators may seek statutory clarity next session.

Webb: With both the Republican Party and the state elections office certifying Maloy for the ballot, it’s highly unlikely she will be removed. Legislative action clarifying eligibility statutes would make sense.

Maloy’s convention win against better-known Republicans was a surprise, but she demonstrated some real political acumen by winning in the crowded field. She has excellent experience as a top congressional staffer, but running for office is a much different endeavor. She navigated it well.

While I don’t take issue with Maloy’s victory, I have a lot of respect for former Utah House Speaker Greg Hughes and I hope he will continue to seek office. He’s a fighter for conservative principles, but he’s also compassionate and sensible.  As of the deadline for this column, Becky Edwards was certified to be on the primary ballot with predictions Bruce Hough would succeed in providing enough signatures. What are the political types saying about the dynamics of this race?

Pignanelli: Convention results are poor indicators of primary election results, so all contenders have a chance. Yet, Maloy has momentum among delegates. Over half of voters in the 2022 congressional primary resided south of Tooele County — a significant advantage for Maloy.

Former lawmaker Edwards (daughter-in-law of beloved BYU coach LaVell Edwards) commands a strong following among moderate factions within the party and name identification from her candidacy in the recent U.S. Senate primary.

Most Utah politicos know the gregarious Bruce Hough, a longtime party official and activist who enjoys much institutional support. Hough’s reputation is further enhanced by his family’s famous participation in the “Dancing with the Stars” television program.

The GOP primary aspirants have distinctive, but not overwhelming, advantages and disadvantages. Consequently, success depends upon the basics of retail politics — clever messaging and effective “Get Out The Vote” measures.

Webb: I don’t know Maloy, but I believe any of the three would represent Utah well in the U.S. Congress. Becky Edwards is a traditional conservative with excellent experience and credentials. She’s not going to be a zealous right-wing partisan, but she fits the mainstream of Republican voters just fine.

Bruce Hough is a terrific candidate who built a large, successful business and has been involved at the top levels of the Republican Party for decades. He knows how to get things done in politics and is smart and hard-charging. He is a sensible conservative.

Edwards and Hough will likely be able to raise substantial money to run strong primary election campaigns. All three candidates will be good debaters, will know the issues, and will communicate well. It’s going to be an intense month-and-a-half as all three campaigns get rolling.  

The Democrats overwhelmingly approved Sen. Kathleen Riebe be to be their nominee. The United Utah Party chose January Walker. The Libertarian and Constitution parties will also have candidates for the Nov. 21 general election. What can readers expect from their campaigns?

Pignanelli: Stewart secured 60% in the 2022 election, which favors the ultimate Republican nominee. Thus, shrewd candidates must develop creative messaging that utilizes the unique dynamics of this special election.

Webb: The Republican nominee will be highly favored. It will be hard for the Democrats to label any of the three Republicans as right-wing wackos. They’re all mainstream Republicans and reflect the views of most Utah voters.

Want to stay cool in summer heat? It’s all about your mindset

Cool things happening in life and politics can help us stave off summer heat

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

The sweltering heat of summer is cooking us. So it’s time to cool off. Sometimes coolness is just a mindset. We stretched our feeble brains to come up with things in politics and life that we think are cool, hoping such thoughts will chill the temperature out there.

Pignanelli: I think it’s cool that Utah has not forgotten its important legacy and is the most welcoming of all states to refugees.

Webb: I think it’s cool that Congressman Chris Stewart is cutting short a successful political career to support his wife, who is suffering health challenges. He is setting a good example for all of us to prioritize what’s really important.

Pignanelli: I think it’s cool that 22 people filed to replace Congressman Chris Stewart. This is an encouraging sign of public engagement — an important element of democracy.

Webb: I think it’s cool that Sen. Mitt Romney is not pandering to the far right, despite facing likely challenges from strong conservatives if he seeks reelection. I have strongly disagreed with Romney on a number of key issues, but respect his integrity.

Pignanelli: I think it’s cool that a record number of Americans voted in the 2020 elections, despite an incumbent president raising fears of fraud and dampening enthusiasm. This is another refreshing sign of a healthy democracy.

Webb: I think it’s cool that congressional Republicans are demanding a more evenhanded Justice Department and FBI leadership. It’s quite clear that a double standard exists, especially in the gentle treatment of Hunter Biden and his overseas moneymaking schemes, using his father as leverage.  

Pignanelli: I think it’s cool that Gov. Spencer Cox owns his plea that Utahns pray for water. He was mocked and belittled by the national media and late-night comedians, but never apologized or retracted. Cox also proves that nothing quiets the critics like success. 

Webb: I think it’s cool that Utah seldom experiences massive weather events like hurricanes, tornadoes, major flooding and devastating wildfires. We certainly do endure periodic extreme weather, and the earthquake “big one” could hit at any time. But we are fortunate to mostly avoid monster events that kill many people and destroy thousands of homes.

Pignanelli: I think it’s cool how several high-profile Republicans, of both genders and different races, are seeking the Republican nomination for the U.S. presidency. This is an important indicator of a strong democracy on many levels.

Webb: I think it’s cool that so many prominent and qualified Republicans are challenging Donald Trump for the GOP nomination. It shows that a Republican constituency exists that doesn’t support Trump, despite his large lead in the polls. It shows that Trump was unable to clear the field as he hoped to do.

Pignanelli: I think it’s cool that Salt Lake City is just so dang cool. There are great restaurants, bars and activities in unprecedented numbers and quality.

Webb: I think it’s cool that Utah remains the youngest state in the nation (sorry that I bring up the average). Children are greatly valued, even though we need to invest more in education. A vibrant, successful community features many children and young people who can find good jobs and start their own families.

Pignanelli: I think it’s cool how the Legislature has maintained its transparency, accountability and openness. Legislators are constantly criticized on many matters and issues. But they have not forgotten fundamental principles, and citizens can participate and influence the process. Equally important, the Legislature remains a citizen-based, part-time body, which promotes greater interaction.

Webb: I think it’s cool that we have a sensible U.S. Supreme Court that is reasserting traditional constitutional principles.

Pignanelli: I think it is cool how network and cable television in their commercials, programming, and news features send strong signals of inclusion and diversity. Through  acceptance of people of color, mixed race marriages, individuals of different religious preference, ethnic origin or sexual orientation, the entertainment industry has dramatically changed our national attitude. I am old enough to remember when it was a different demeanor, and those definitely were not the good old days.

Webb: I think it’s cool that the Utah Jazz are making exciting moves to make the team a contender right away.

Pignanelli: I think it’s cool BYU is joining the Big 12 Conference. I am a true and loyal Utah fan. But it’s always great when a fellow in-state school enjoys success.

Webb: I think it’s cool that summer is finally here. It was a long, snowy winter and a very cool, wet spring. Bring on the heat!

Pignanelli: I think it’s cool that the University of Utah athletics, men’s and women’s, have achieved such national prominence.

Webb: I think it’s cool that this column is almost done.

Pignanelli: I think it’s very cool that the Deseret News, with 173-year-old heritage of prominence in our state, allows a goofball like me to write for the distinguished periodical.

Webb: I think it’s cool that I’m really old, so I’m going to die before the federal government goes bankrupt and Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare collapse; before the AI Apocalypse occurs, before China invades Taiwan and WWIII ensues, and before everyone bakes and shrivels because of global warming. Good luck, you young ’uns! 

Hinckley Institute of Politics

July 2023 | Frank Pignanelli ALUMNI MAIN Alumni Spotlight

Frank Pignanelli found a passion for politics and campaigns at the Hinckley Institute while studying at the University of Utah. In addition to attending numerous Hinckley forums and taking a Hinckley class taught by former Governor Scott Matheson, Pignanelli participated in several campaign internships, including a 1979 city council campaign and a 1980 US Senate race, and completed a Legislative Internship during the 1981 Utah General Legislative Session.

Pignanelli graduated from the U in 1981 with a BA in History and went on to obtain a JD from the U’s law school in 1984.

The campaign tactics learned throughout his many Hinckley experiences proved to be invaluable as Pignanelli began his legal and public affairs career. 

 I learned how to communicate complex matters with effective messaging. Furthermore, most of the individuals I interacted with during my internships are still very close friends with me today. My education would not be complete without the Hinckley Institute. I will forever be grateful. 

Pignanelli has built an impressive career since leaving the U - he was one of the youngest Utahns ever elected to state office and served in the House of Representatives for 10 years, 6 of those years serving as the Democratic Minority Leader.

He practiced law in general litigation until 1993 when he was appointed Vice President and General Counsel of BlueCross BlueShield of Utah. 

He is currently senior partner with Foxley & Pignanelli, one of Utah's premier government relations and public affairs firms.

In addition to these impressive accomplishments, he writes a Sunday column for the Deseret News and is a frequent speaker and political commentator throughout the state. 

From patriots to present day, assessing America’s progress on its 247th birthday

This Independence Day, where is the nation on unity, civility, equality and hope?

By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb

On Tuesday, July 4, we will celebrate our nation’s 247th birthday. She’s getting old, but we old-timers believe the good old USA is still the land of opportunity and freedom. We take a look at the state of the union in this high-tech, globalized era that couldn’t possibly have been imagined by those patriots who declared independence in 1776.

In the political realm, our nation faces great challenges: Social and cultural division, rampant incivility, the rise of sometimes-toxic populism and progressivism, unfathomable debt, and an acceleration of social media and artificial intelligence with unpredictable consequences. Are the nation’s political and social institutions, including our revered Constitution, still relevant and capable of guiding and maintaining stability and progress in the face of these great tests?

Pignanelli: “The principle on which this country was founded is that Americanism is a matter of the mind and heart; never a matter of race and ancestry.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt 

Exceptional athletes are in constant training, oftentimes utilizing new technologies, thereby responding to difficult challenges with success. The United States of America resembles such a disciplined competitor.

Every day since its founding, our country has confronted and overcome unprecedented problems, spawned internally and externally. Unlike other civilizations in human history, we have done so while maintaining a vibrant democracy. Strong athleticism includes absorbing new ideas and reinventing strategies, while maintaining fundamental principles. America is an idea, embodied in our Constitution, yet unattached to a specific culture. Thus, we can pivot and adapt without jettisoning our values.

We face tremendous problems, as have prior generations. Often the societal pendulum swings to the extremes before settling on a proper balance. Those who doubt the U.S. have an unfortunate misperception of history. While the process has not been pretty (democracies never are), seeking our common goals as Americans — regardless of race, creed, color, ethnic origin or sexual orientation — is prevailing.

For a country of our size, complexity and diversity to continually achieve while honoring our constitutional ideals is amazing. We are true athletes.

Webb: Many things have changed in 247 years, but one thing hasn’t: human nature. Men and women still display all the virtues and vices of those Americans who founded our country. Our remarkable Constitution was written by people who may not have been psychiatrists or sociologists, but they understood the fundamental dispositions and characteristics of people. They artfully designed a government to curb the worst inclinations of men and women, while guaranteeing freedom for responsible, honest people to flourish.

Thus, the Constitution is today as relevant as ever, despite our high-tech, modern society. In fact, the Constitution, which decentralizes and divides government power among three branches and two levels (state and federal), can be more effective than ever if followed properly in our highly networked, fast-paced world.

But expect much turbulence ahead. Nothing is guaranteed. America is not invincible. Our enviable way of life is not automatic. Each generation must dedicate itself to constitutional principles and protect freedom. As John Adams said, our form of government was created only for a moral people. A breakdown of societal pillars like marriage and family will have severe consequences.

Has the nation made real progress on racial and cultural issues? Is more diversity, equity and inclusion needed to realize the aspiration that “all men are created equal”?

Pignanelli: Television, the powerful arbitrator of our culture, is filled with programming and commercials containing actors and performers of various colors, religions and sexual orientation. Most Americans, along with corporations and organizations, strive not just to be tolerant but to embrace diversity.

Most of the racial tensions are generated by social media. We are coming to terms with our historic forefathers and foremothers (including our family ancestors) who held both correct and troubling beliefs. Much has been accomplished and more needs to be done. But we must recognize every day we inch closer to the aspirational ideal.

Webb: I’m confident the United States has made substantial progress in living up to that profound, aspirational statement in the preamble to the Declaration of Independence. In my lifetime I have seen a dramatic reduction in racism, bigotry and intolerance. We still have far to go.

Given the dramatic rise of China and the many geopolitical challenges our country faces, is America still the world’s beacon of hope?

Pignanelli: America continually endures immigration issues. China, Russia and others do not have such problems, for obvious reasons. America remains the land of opportunity.

Webb: This July 4, contemplate this statement by Gen. Colin Powell, former secretary of state:

“We have sent men and women from the armed forces of the United States to other parts of the world throughout the past century to put down oppression. We defeated Fascism. We defeated Communism. We saved Europe in World War I and World War II. We were willing to do it, glad to do it. We went to Korea. We went to Vietnam. All in the interest of preserving the rights of people.

“And when all those conflicts were over, what did we do? Did we stay and conquer? Did we say, ‘OK, we defeated Germany. Now Germany belongs to us? We defeated Japan, so Japan belongs to us’? No. What did we do? We built them up. We gave them democratic systems which they have embraced totally to their soul. And did we ask for any land? No, the only land we ever asked for was enough land to bury our dead. And that is the kind of nation we are.”