In today's Salt Lake Tribune Paul Rolly critisizes the state legislature for not passing hate crimes legislation.
In 2005; I wrote about the danger of hate crimes legislation in the annual GrassRoots report:
http://utahgrassroots.org/annual/2005/index.html#hate
The left is always quick to use hate as a reason that conservatives do what they do.
Look at the protests against the LDS Church because of their position on California's Proposition Eight. Those in favor of Gay Marriage were quick to say the Church had taken its position out of hate.
Anyone who has ever listened to Thomas S. Monson should know that he is not a man filled with hate. In fact, there is probably not a more compassionate loving man on the face of the earth. He is a great example for us to follow. From his story as a boy of giving away his railroad car to the numerous visits to the hospitals. He is a man who has truly followed to admonition of Christ to be like Him.
Getting back to the reason that hate crimes are bad (and I would anticipate that individuals will use the protests against the LDS Church to push hate crimes legislation at the state legislture). When you begin to look at someone's motives behind why they commit a crime; you begin to get on shaky ground. The only way you can look at motives is to look at thoughts.
Hence you begin to punish an individual because of the way he thinks.
And because those on the left think that those who want a certain level of morality in this country are filled with hate. It will not be a stretch before they begin to make these hate crimes.
We have seen what one bad judge who would rather create law than interpret law will do.
In the world we are seeing churches being punished for their teachings on homosexuality.
Hate crimes legislation is a Pandora's Box. Once you open the lid; the lid will not be shut.
The First Amendment will be on shaky ground.
Churches who teach morality will be on shaky ground.
Here's hoping the legislature says not to hate crimes legislation.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Things I am Thankful For
All to often we look on the negative things in life. Thanksgiving give us the opportunity to list what we are truly thankful for:
1) I am thankful to my Heavenly Father who sent me to this earth and has blessed me greatly.
2) I am thankful to my Savior Jesus Christ who sacrificed his life on my behalf. He truly is our best friend.
3) I am thankful for a loving wife and family who are always there to support me. I am grateful that my sick daughter that was made well.
4) I am thankful to live in a great nation. While we face severe problems, I am thankful for our founding fathers who sacrificed that we may enjoy this freedom.
5) I am thankful for a good job and the education I received from Utah State University which helped me obtain it.
6) I am thankful to those individuals who make the little sacrifices. The Utah woman who asked for her name to be listed amongst the Prop 8 donors in California and the family who had little but gave $50,000 to the cause. I am grateful for people like this that put their love of God above the love of the world.
1) I am thankful to my Heavenly Father who sent me to this earth and has blessed me greatly.
2) I am thankful to my Savior Jesus Christ who sacrificed his life on my behalf. He truly is our best friend.
3) I am thankful for a loving wife and family who are always there to support me. I am grateful that my sick daughter that was made well.
4) I am thankful to live in a great nation. While we face severe problems, I am thankful for our founding fathers who sacrificed that we may enjoy this freedom.
5) I am thankful for a good job and the education I received from Utah State University which helped me obtain it.
6) I am thankful to those individuals who make the little sacrifices. The Utah woman who asked for her name to be listed amongst the Prop 8 donors in California and the family who had little but gave $50,000 to the cause. I am grateful for people like this that put their love of God above the love of the world.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
The Republican Party
Media pundits have been quick to state that John McCain’s loss is a death for conservatives.
Unfortunately the very fact that Republicans nominated McCain represents just how far Republicans had strayed from their core principals. McCain was the most liberal nominee Republicans had put forward in quite some time. Remember that McCain was so chummy with the Democrats that John Kerry actually considered him for his vice presidential nominee in 2004.
Any ties that McCain had to the conservative movement were shattered when President Bush put forth his $700 billion bailout of the financial industry. During the campaign McCain had vowed that he would veto any piece of legislation that carried pork in it. The $700 billion bailout was already a pork bill, and then Senators went and put $150 of additional pork in the bill.
McCain had the chance to back up his rhetoric, but sadly when it came time for his actions to match his rhetoric it was found wanting.
Matching actions with rhetoric has been an issue for Republicans for quite some time. During the election Republicans were quick to talk about how Barak Obama was going to bring socialism to America. Warning that now is not the time to experiment with socialism.
Unfortunately, Republicans had been experimenting with socialism during the Bush presidency. After all, the massive federal bailout involved the federal government buying up bank assets. McCain even went so far as to call for the government to purchase home mortgages. If that is not socialism, then nothing is.
All too many Republican stood idly by as Bush made the government larger and larger. One can not say they believe in limited government and have supported the Patriot Act. One can not say they believe in limited government and support the unprecedented amounts of foreign aid that the Bush administration dished out. One can not say they believe in limited government and support “The No Child Left Behind Act” which handed the federal government more control of our school system. One cannot say they support limited government while the Federal Reserve prints more and more money.
The time to fight against big government had already passed by the time the presidential election had come before us.
In an election, voters should have clear choices before them not choices of "Big Government" or "Big Government Lite". Because of the unprecedented enlargement of the federal government, our citizens have become all reliant upon the government to solve our nation’s woes.
It is time now for Republicans to look in the mirror and decide what their core principles truly are. All too many Republicans have allowed personality to come before principal. Putting the president above their core principals have driven the party far off course.
While protecting the rights of the unborn and other social issues should be at the top of the list for Republicans, they should not turn a blind eye to economic or rights issues. One should not overlook a liberal agenda, simply because one is pro life. Republicans must demand the whole package. Otherwise the party will find itself in the situation it is now, where they will be governed by social and economic liberals.
Unfortunately the very fact that Republicans nominated McCain represents just how far Republicans had strayed from their core principals. McCain was the most liberal nominee Republicans had put forward in quite some time. Remember that McCain was so chummy with the Democrats that John Kerry actually considered him for his vice presidential nominee in 2004.
Any ties that McCain had to the conservative movement were shattered when President Bush put forth his $700 billion bailout of the financial industry. During the campaign McCain had vowed that he would veto any piece of legislation that carried pork in it. The $700 billion bailout was already a pork bill, and then Senators went and put $150 of additional pork in the bill.
McCain had the chance to back up his rhetoric, but sadly when it came time for his actions to match his rhetoric it was found wanting.
Matching actions with rhetoric has been an issue for Republicans for quite some time. During the election Republicans were quick to talk about how Barak Obama was going to bring socialism to America. Warning that now is not the time to experiment with socialism.
Unfortunately, Republicans had been experimenting with socialism during the Bush presidency. After all, the massive federal bailout involved the federal government buying up bank assets. McCain even went so far as to call for the government to purchase home mortgages. If that is not socialism, then nothing is.
All too many Republican stood idly by as Bush made the government larger and larger. One can not say they believe in limited government and have supported the Patriot Act. One can not say they believe in limited government and support the unprecedented amounts of foreign aid that the Bush administration dished out. One can not say they believe in limited government and support “The No Child Left Behind Act” which handed the federal government more control of our school system. One cannot say they support limited government while the Federal Reserve prints more and more money.
The time to fight against big government had already passed by the time the presidential election had come before us.
In an election, voters should have clear choices before them not choices of "Big Government" or "Big Government Lite". Because of the unprecedented enlargement of the federal government, our citizens have become all reliant upon the government to solve our nation’s woes.
It is time now for Republicans to look in the mirror and decide what their core principles truly are. All too many Republicans have allowed personality to come before principal. Putting the president above their core principals have driven the party far off course.
While protecting the rights of the unborn and other social issues should be at the top of the list for Republicans, they should not turn a blind eye to economic or rights issues. One should not overlook a liberal agenda, simply because one is pro life. Republicans must demand the whole package. Otherwise the party will find itself in the situation it is now, where they will be governed by social and economic liberals.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Our Recent Crisis
The recent actions of the executive and legislative branches of our government are most troubling. During a time of crisis one gets to see if individuals truly value our Constitution or whether they simply give it lip service.
I took heart when at the Republican National Convention John McCain talked about cutting government spending. He reiiterated that in the first debate when he said he would veto the first bill that came to his desk with pork in it.
McCain had the opportunity to walk the walk with the recent bail out bill. The bill was bad to begin with and was made worse with the addition of $150 billion in pork. It included six million dollars to help the wooden arrow industry.
This is a classic example of the type of bill that McCain vowed to veto. Instead he voted for the bill.
It was troubling during the vice presidential debate when Governor Sarah Palin said the government was responsible for the crisis because they had not done a good enough job of oversight. This was after declaring that the American public simply wanted government to get out of the way.
Republicans need to decide if they are going to be Republicans or be Democratic clones. The chair of the Utah State Republican Party sent an email out supporting the bail out. The vice chair was on the Doug Wright Show declaring his support for the bail out.
Are we following the counsel of Ezra Taft Benson?
Unfortunately, we as a nation have apostatized in various degrees from different Constitutional principles as proclaimed by the inspired founders. We are fast approaching that moment prophesied by Joseph Smith when he said: “Even this nation will be on the very verge of crumbling to pieces and tumbling to the ground, and when the Constitution is upon the brink of ruin, this people will be the staff upon which the nation shall lean, and they shall bear the Constitution away from the very verge of destruction” (19 July 1840, as recorded by Martha Jane Knowlton Coray; ms. in Church Historian’s Office, Salt Lake City).
For centuries our forefathers suffered and sacrificed that we might be the recipients of the blessings of freedom. If they were willing to sacrifice so much to establish us as a free people, should we not be willing to do the same to maintain that freedom for ourselves and for future generations? http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD&locale=0&sourceId=632e79356427b010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&hideNav=1
With the passing of each presidential administration more freedom is lost. All to often the executive branch has used the power of the presidency to erode freedom. Roosevelt used the depression to put our country further down the road of socialism. Truman used the horrors of World War II to establish the United Nations. In our day President Bush used September 11th to erode our Constitutional freedoms with such things as the Patriot Act.
Now during this economic crisis our leaders are pushing us further down the road to big government with the bail out package.
The days of personal accountability are gone. McCain "The Pork Fighter" even went so far as to suggest that the American public should buy out bad mortgages. Some individuals have lost their homes to bad circumstances, all to many bought homes they couldn't afford. Instead of saving to make a good down payment and buying a home they could afford, they bought homes that were beyond their means. Now our government is expecting those who played by the rules to bail them out.
Are we willing to make sacrifices to preserve our freedoms? Once given away our freedoms will not return.
It may require sacrifice but preserving our freedoms is well worth the effort.
I took heart when at the Republican National Convention John McCain talked about cutting government spending. He reiiterated that in the first debate when he said he would veto the first bill that came to his desk with pork in it.
McCain had the opportunity to walk the walk with the recent bail out bill. The bill was bad to begin with and was made worse with the addition of $150 billion in pork. It included six million dollars to help the wooden arrow industry.
This is a classic example of the type of bill that McCain vowed to veto. Instead he voted for the bill.
It was troubling during the vice presidential debate when Governor Sarah Palin said the government was responsible for the crisis because they had not done a good enough job of oversight. This was after declaring that the American public simply wanted government to get out of the way.
Republicans need to decide if they are going to be Republicans or be Democratic clones. The chair of the Utah State Republican Party sent an email out supporting the bail out. The vice chair was on the Doug Wright Show declaring his support for the bail out.
Are we following the counsel of Ezra Taft Benson?
Unfortunately, we as a nation have apostatized in various degrees from different Constitutional principles as proclaimed by the inspired founders. We are fast approaching that moment prophesied by Joseph Smith when he said: “Even this nation will be on the very verge of crumbling to pieces and tumbling to the ground, and when the Constitution is upon the brink of ruin, this people will be the staff upon which the nation shall lean, and they shall bear the Constitution away from the very verge of destruction” (19 July 1840, as recorded by Martha Jane Knowlton Coray; ms. in Church Historian’s Office, Salt Lake City).
For centuries our forefathers suffered and sacrificed that we might be the recipients of the blessings of freedom. If they were willing to sacrifice so much to establish us as a free people, should we not be willing to do the same to maintain that freedom for ourselves and for future generations? http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD&locale=0&sourceId=632e79356427b010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&hideNav=1
With the passing of each presidential administration more freedom is lost. All to often the executive branch has used the power of the presidency to erode freedom. Roosevelt used the depression to put our country further down the road of socialism. Truman used the horrors of World War II to establish the United Nations. In our day President Bush used September 11th to erode our Constitutional freedoms with such things as the Patriot Act.
Now during this economic crisis our leaders are pushing us further down the road to big government with the bail out package.
The days of personal accountability are gone. McCain "The Pork Fighter" even went so far as to suggest that the American public should buy out bad mortgages. Some individuals have lost their homes to bad circumstances, all to many bought homes they couldn't afford. Instead of saving to make a good down payment and buying a home they could afford, they bought homes that were beyond their means. Now our government is expecting those who played by the rules to bail them out.
Are we willing to make sacrifices to preserve our freedoms? Once given away our freedoms will not return.
It may require sacrifice but preserving our freedoms is well worth the effort.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Good Info on the Bailout
I received this email today and am posting it with the author's permission:
Secretary Paulson has proposed a $700 Billion Bailout of the mortgage debt by the government. This means you and me, tax payers, will pay the bill.
1) This increases the national debt by 7.3%. That's a lot, especially when we can't even afford to pay what we have now.
2) There will be interest every year on this loan on top of that number.
3) We have to pay about $2,600 plus interest per person in the US, if this passes, to bail out banks and mortgage companies that made these loans. That's over $15,000 for my family.
4) Taxes will have to go up to pay for this
5) Increasing taxes is inflationary as companies have to raise prices to pay those taxes
6) Other companies may go out of business because of this (they raise prices and people stop buying their products).
7) No one bails us out, or our businesses, if we make bad loans or investments.
I am a Davis County Delegate (10 of the past 12 years) and a Precinct Vice-chair (past 6 years). Everyone I hear running for office says they oppose higher taxes. A vote for the $700 Billion bailout is a vote for higher taxes, increase debt, inflation, and I believe we are creating a hole that will sink our country in the long run with all this debt and taxes.
As a Certified Financial Planner I am somewhat familiar with economics. This looks bad for the future in my view. Like Esau, we feel we have an immediate need and then sell our future for a mess of pottage. I don't like it.
I suggest writing your congressman and senators and expressing your thoughts on this proposed bailout. You can look them up on-line and fire off an e-mail in less than a minute. I am personally opposed to the bailout.
Brian Horne
Secretary Paulson has proposed a $700 Billion Bailout of the mortgage debt by the government. This means you and me, tax payers, will pay the bill.
1) This increases the national debt by 7.3%. That's a lot, especially when we can't even afford to pay what we have now.
2) There will be interest every year on this loan on top of that number.
3) We have to pay about $2,600 plus interest per person in the US, if this passes, to bail out banks and mortgage companies that made these loans. That's over $15,000 for my family.
4) Taxes will have to go up to pay for this
5) Increasing taxes is inflationary as companies have to raise prices to pay those taxes
6) Other companies may go out of business because of this (they raise prices and people stop buying their products).
7) No one bails us out, or our businesses, if we make bad loans or investments.
I am a Davis County Delegate (10 of the past 12 years) and a Precinct Vice-chair (past 6 years). Everyone I hear running for office says they oppose higher taxes. A vote for the $700 Billion bailout is a vote for higher taxes, increase debt, inflation, and I believe we are creating a hole that will sink our country in the long run with all this debt and taxes.
As a Certified Financial Planner I am somewhat familiar with economics. This looks bad for the future in my view. Like Esau, we feel we have an immediate need and then sell our future for a mess of pottage. I don't like it.
I suggest writing your congressman and senators and expressing your thoughts on this proposed bailout. You can look them up on-line and fire off an e-mail in less than a minute. I am personally opposed to the bailout.
Brian Horne
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Welfare
This week the government announced a major bail out of banks to avoid an economic crisis. While perhaps heading off an economic crisis in the near future, the government is simply putting more debt upon the backs of American citizens. Debt that will have to be repaid one day and debt that undoubtedly will go into the hands of foreign interests (namely the Chinese who once upon a time said they had the capability of hitting Los Angeles with a nuclear weapon).
This is nothing more than welfare. Government hand outs are bad--whether it be personal or corporate. Unforunately, there is little no accountability in our society. Everyone realizes that the government will pull them out of any crisis they put themselves into.
And this is a crisis of our own creation--do not doubt that. Where once upon a time our society saved its money and worked hard to move up into bigger and better homes and a bigger and better lifestyle; today we have a sense of entitlement. We need to have it all and we have to have it all right now.
Unfortunately there were credit institutions all to willing to prey upon this entitlement mentality. Overstating incomes, loan scams and no down payment housing plans became the norm.
Now those that did it the right way. Those who worked hard to save and who bought homes they could afford are being asked to bail out those who were not responsible.
This is nothing more than welfare. Government hand outs are bad--whether it be personal or corporate. Unforunately, there is little no accountability in our society. Everyone realizes that the government will pull them out of any crisis they put themselves into.
And this is a crisis of our own creation--do not doubt that. Where once upon a time our society saved its money and worked hard to move up into bigger and better homes and a bigger and better lifestyle; today we have a sense of entitlement. We need to have it all and we have to have it all right now.
Unfortunately there were credit institutions all to willing to prey upon this entitlement mentality. Overstating incomes, loan scams and no down payment housing plans became the norm.
Now those that did it the right way. Those who worked hard to save and who bought homes they could afford are being asked to bail out those who were not responsible.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
A New Day?
If someone would have bet me that I would come out of the GOP Convention being impressed by John McCain, I would have told you that you were crazy.
Nevertheless, I will say that having been to the convention I came out impressed with McCain.
Yes his acceptance speech had some areas which concern me. Namely the increased federal government role in education, as the federal government should have no role.
I also fear that Republicans have fought who initially attacked us on 9/11. We need to make Afganistan a bigger priority. I would have loved to hear McCain in his speech say, "I will pursue Osama Bin Laden to the gates of hell, and I will personally see that he gets there."
Nevertheless, the choice of Palin and the repudiation of Republican leadership over the past eight years is encouraging.
I am encouraged that Palin fought corruption in her state party.
I am encouraged that McCain apologized for the past eight years. I for one am getting sick of Republicans blaming Clinton for everything. Yes Clinton was a rotten president, but we have been in power for eight years and controlled the Congress and White House for six of those. We have no one to blame but ourselves.
I am encouraged that McCain talked about cutting government spending. Republicans have taken on a Rockefelian approach to government. Let's see if we can outspend the Democrats. This is not what Republicans stand for.
I am encouraged by the platform. Yes there are sections with which I disagree, but the party took strong stances on abortion and immigration.
I am encouraged that the Republican Party is fighting once again. I still have the bruises from Bush I and the Dole campaigns.
Now it will be interesting to see if the rhetoric continues and if the rhetoric comes to pass once elected.
This could be a new day for the party and that is encouraging.
Nevertheless, I will say that having been to the convention I came out impressed with McCain.
Yes his acceptance speech had some areas which concern me. Namely the increased federal government role in education, as the federal government should have no role.
I also fear that Republicans have fought who initially attacked us on 9/11. We need to make Afganistan a bigger priority. I would have loved to hear McCain in his speech say, "I will pursue Osama Bin Laden to the gates of hell, and I will personally see that he gets there."
Nevertheless, the choice of Palin and the repudiation of Republican leadership over the past eight years is encouraging.
I am encouraged that Palin fought corruption in her state party.
I am encouraged that McCain apologized for the past eight years. I for one am getting sick of Republicans blaming Clinton for everything. Yes Clinton was a rotten president, but we have been in power for eight years and controlled the Congress and White House for six of those. We have no one to blame but ourselves.
I am encouraged that McCain talked about cutting government spending. Republicans have taken on a Rockefelian approach to government. Let's see if we can outspend the Democrats. This is not what Republicans stand for.
I am encouraged by the platform. Yes there are sections with which I disagree, but the party took strong stances on abortion and immigration.
I am encouraged that the Republican Party is fighting once again. I still have the bruises from Bush I and the Dole campaigns.
Now it will be interesting to see if the rhetoric continues and if the rhetoric comes to pass once elected.
This could be a new day for the party and that is encouraging.
Thursday Blog
John McCain accepted the nomination with a great speech. Listening to McCain one would not know that the Republicans have held the White House for the past eight years. In 1988 all the candidates wanted to be the next Reagan; this year it appears to be who doesn't want to be Bush.He continued the theme of cutting spending which is a welcome message to conservatives.
Our governor, Jon Huntsman Jr, nominated Sarah Palin for the vice presidency. It appears he had a touch of laryngitis as he had a rhaspy throat.Utah delegates had some fun with the balloon drop as the hit some balloons into the CNN booth. Anderson Cooper played along hitting some of the ballons back.It appears that Sarah Palin's theme song will be "Barricuda".
One of the memorable scenes for the convention was State Senate President John Valentine raising the roof.I also commend Leautinent Governor Gary Herbert for being the leading cheerleader of the delegation. He was the first to hold up signs and one could even catch him singing along a couple of times.
Our governor, Jon Huntsman Jr, nominated Sarah Palin for the vice presidency. It appears he had a touch of laryngitis as he had a rhaspy throat.Utah delegates had some fun with the balloon drop as the hit some balloons into the CNN booth. Anderson Cooper played along hitting some of the ballons back.It appears that Sarah Palin's theme song will be "Barricuda".
One of the memorable scenes for the convention was State Senate President John Valentine raising the roof.I also commend Leautinent Governor Gary Herbert for being the leading cheerleader of the delegation. He was the first to hold up signs and one could even catch him singing along a couple of times.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Wednesday Highlights
Sarah Palin hit a home run on Wednesday night. Delegates loved he speech. She has truly energized the ticket.
In a night filled with great one liners, her attack on the media got a very spontaneous result. Delegates began to boo and heckle the media. The Maryland delegation had alternate delegates above the CNN booth and they were giving it to their convention staff.
I could see that the CNN and NBC staffs were not thrilled.
Obama earned a new nickname from convention delegates, “zero” for the number of years of leadership he has. Delegates chanted “zero” throughout the evening.
The most memorable line of the night for me was delivered by Mike Huckabee who said that Sarah Palin had gotten more votes in her mayoral election than Joe Biden had gotten for president.
Delegates also loved the speeches from Mitt Romney and Rudy Giuliani.
Tonight was also the night delegates voted. Not surprisingly McCain got nearly every vote at the convention.
One of the conflicts I personally was how to cast my vote. I had campaigned for this position under the rules which had Utah casting its votes for Romney. Keeping my promises means something to me. Our state central committee decided to reinterpret how this rule was applied at the last possible instant.
I did not agree with how this was handled and gave instructions that my vote would go to Romney if the nomination was still in play by the time it was Utah’s turn to vote. Since McCain had enough votes by the time it had gotten to Utah; my vote ultimately went to McCain.
Ultimately this rule must be changed. I hope the state party will address this immediately.
I have not been a McCain fan, but I have been happy that our party is once again talking about reducing government spending. We have to return to being the party of fiscal discipline. Let’s hope McCain delivers on his promise.
Prior to the convention we were treated to a reception by Union Pacific on one of their rail cars. It was a very nice event, which included all delegates receiving a train whistle as a keepsake. Of course, these were confiscated when we went through security at the convention site because no noise makers are allowed.
In the morning we were treated to breakfast by Governor Huntsman. The highlight of this event was being addressed by a Medal of Honor winner and a former P.O.W. in Vietnam.
Tomorrow includes breakfast with Congressman Rob Bishop and a visit to the Mall of America. The convention wraps up with John McCain’s acceptance of the nomination.
In a night filled with great one liners, her attack on the media got a very spontaneous result. Delegates began to boo and heckle the media. The Maryland delegation had alternate delegates above the CNN booth and they were giving it to their convention staff.
I could see that the CNN and NBC staffs were not thrilled.
Obama earned a new nickname from convention delegates, “zero” for the number of years of leadership he has. Delegates chanted “zero” throughout the evening.
The most memorable line of the night for me was delivered by Mike Huckabee who said that Sarah Palin had gotten more votes in her mayoral election than Joe Biden had gotten for president.
Delegates also loved the speeches from Mitt Romney and Rudy Giuliani.
Tonight was also the night delegates voted. Not surprisingly McCain got nearly every vote at the convention.
One of the conflicts I personally was how to cast my vote. I had campaigned for this position under the rules which had Utah casting its votes for Romney. Keeping my promises means something to me. Our state central committee decided to reinterpret how this rule was applied at the last possible instant.
I did not agree with how this was handled and gave instructions that my vote would go to Romney if the nomination was still in play by the time it was Utah’s turn to vote. Since McCain had enough votes by the time it had gotten to Utah; my vote ultimately went to McCain.
Ultimately this rule must be changed. I hope the state party will address this immediately.
I have not been a McCain fan, but I have been happy that our party is once again talking about reducing government spending. We have to return to being the party of fiscal discipline. Let’s hope McCain delivers on his promise.
Prior to the convention we were treated to a reception by Union Pacific on one of their rail cars. It was a very nice event, which included all delegates receiving a train whistle as a keepsake. Of course, these were confiscated when we went through security at the convention site because no noise makers are allowed.
In the morning we were treated to breakfast by Governor Huntsman. The highlight of this event was being addressed by a Medal of Honor winner and a former P.O.W. in Vietnam.
Tomorrow includes breakfast with Congressman Rob Bishop and a visit to the Mall of America. The convention wraps up with John McCain’s acceptance of the nomination.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Tuesday Highlights
Tuesday Highlights
The highlight of the day was a lunch sponsored by Senator Orin Hatch which featured a performance by Lee Greenwood. Greenwood performed a number of songs for the delegates with his signature song “God Bless the USA” ending the performance. His performance put in perspective why we as delegates are here in Minneapolis by reminding us of the greatness of this country.
Prior to lunch with Greenwood (which also featured a short speech from Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell), Utah delegates visited the Metrodome. Delegates got to go onto the field and several delegates including Eric Isom, Ben Horsley and Marco Diaz decided to run the outfield. Fortunately no one was injured.
Other highlights of the day included:
In the afternoon a number of delegates and attended a rally which included a speech by Grover Norquist who is president of Americans for Tax Reform. His message centered on the need to reduce taxation to help rope in the size of government. Another presentation discussed the national debt which is nearing $10 trillion dollars or $31,000 for every man, woman and child in this nation.
I was thrilled to hear Republicans talk about the need to reduce government spending at the nightly convention session. I was impressed when a presentation noted that John McCain has never sought any earmarks for Arizona. Reducing government spending has not been a high priority of Republicans lately. While I have several concerns about John McCain, I have always appreciated his willingness to fight government waste. I am hoping that his nomination will signal making deficit reduction a higher priority.
Another highlight of the convention was Senator Fred Thompson’s talk which included a discussion of John McCain’s experience as a POW. On my LDS mission, my mission president, David Rollins, was in POW camps with John McCain. I know how this experience changed his life and the admiration I have for him and for all who make great sacrifices to serve this country.
Utah is one of the reddest states in the nation, so the Republican Party can often take Utah for granted. This is demonstrated by Utah’s position on the convention floor. Only one state is further away from the podium than Utah. That state is Vermont, which is best known for having a socialist (Bernie Sanders) represent them in Washington.
While Utah is far away from the podium, it is right next to the CNN, CBS and NBC studious. Utah delegates often make up the background for CNN shots, and delegates got a chance to get a wave from Laura Bush prior to her interview on NBC.
An unexpected benefit came when fellow delegate Larry Meyers of St. George and I decided to take a different route out of the convention hall. Security asked us to stop prior to entering a stairway. As we waited we had the opportunity to see President Bush, Barbara Bush and Cindy McCain as they exited the Xcel Center.
Wednesday’s highlight will be a speech from Vice-Presidential nominee Sarah Palin. Governor Jon Huntsman is also tentatively scheduled to address the convention. Of course, the convention schedule is in flux so that is subject to change.
The highlight of the day was a lunch sponsored by Senator Orin Hatch which featured a performance by Lee Greenwood. Greenwood performed a number of songs for the delegates with his signature song “God Bless the USA” ending the performance. His performance put in perspective why we as delegates are here in Minneapolis by reminding us of the greatness of this country.
Prior to lunch with Greenwood (which also featured a short speech from Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell), Utah delegates visited the Metrodome. Delegates got to go onto the field and several delegates including Eric Isom, Ben Horsley and Marco Diaz decided to run the outfield. Fortunately no one was injured.
Other highlights of the day included:
In the afternoon a number of delegates and attended a rally which included a speech by Grover Norquist who is president of Americans for Tax Reform. His message centered on the need to reduce taxation to help rope in the size of government. Another presentation discussed the national debt which is nearing $10 trillion dollars or $31,000 for every man, woman and child in this nation.
I was thrilled to hear Republicans talk about the need to reduce government spending at the nightly convention session. I was impressed when a presentation noted that John McCain has never sought any earmarks for Arizona. Reducing government spending has not been a high priority of Republicans lately. While I have several concerns about John McCain, I have always appreciated his willingness to fight government waste. I am hoping that his nomination will signal making deficit reduction a higher priority.
Another highlight of the convention was Senator Fred Thompson’s talk which included a discussion of John McCain’s experience as a POW. On my LDS mission, my mission president, David Rollins, was in POW camps with John McCain. I know how this experience changed his life and the admiration I have for him and for all who make great sacrifices to serve this country.
Utah is one of the reddest states in the nation, so the Republican Party can often take Utah for granted. This is demonstrated by Utah’s position on the convention floor. Only one state is further away from the podium than Utah. That state is Vermont, which is best known for having a socialist (Bernie Sanders) represent them in Washington.
While Utah is far away from the podium, it is right next to the CNN, CBS and NBC studious. Utah delegates often make up the background for CNN shots, and delegates got a chance to get a wave from Laura Bush prior to her interview on NBC.
An unexpected benefit came when fellow delegate Larry Meyers of St. George and I decided to take a different route out of the convention hall. Security asked us to stop prior to entering a stairway. As we waited we had the opportunity to see President Bush, Barbara Bush and Cindy McCain as they exited the Xcel Center.
Wednesday’s highlight will be a speech from Vice-Presidential nominee Sarah Palin. Governor Jon Huntsman is also tentatively scheduled to address the convention. Of course, the convention schedule is in flux so that is subject to change.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Monday Highlights
Mitt Romney spoke to the Utah delegation in their morning breakfast. He talked about how Utah loves the color red not only in its scenery but in the candidates it chooses. Romney gave his wholehearted endorsement to the McCain/Palin ticket.
Romney called them both mavericks who are willing to go against the political grain; praising Palin for putting an end to the "Bridge to Nowhere" as governor of Alaska.
Romney talked of Biden's so-called experience in foreign affairs. Noting that Biden opposed Reagan's military buildup; he opposed the Persian Gulf War and he favored breaking Iraq into three countries.
After Romney's speech, Stan Lockhart addressed the delegates reminding them that "I Can" (the last four letters of Republican and the basis of the state parties media blitz) sounds better than "O Crat".
Monday night was supposed to be the night President Bush addressed the Republican National Convention, but instead Utah delegates spent Monday night preparing hygiene kits.
With Monday’s events abbreviated to only official business on Monday afternoon, delegates found there calendars empty on Monday evening. As Utahans do, delegates looked for ways to provide service.
The local wards of the local LDS stake literally overnight helped provide the items for the kits (which include two combs, two towels, two bars of soap, toothpaste and four toothbrushes). Getting the call on Sunday night, members purchased the needed items on Monday for the delegates to put together beginning at 6 p.m.
With the items provided, delegates put together approximately 1,000 kits.
Having participated in a number of county and state conventions, I am used to being able to debate platform amendments and rules amendments. This is not the case at a national convention. While these items are presented to delegates for approval, there is a script that is followed closely. The lesson learned is that if you want to have a real voice in the convention process, you need to put yourself in a position to be on one of the committees that are voted for by national delegates long before the convention.
While these committees have real power, the elections in the Utah delegation went largely uncontested with the exception of one race.
One item of discussion amongst delegates was news of Sarah Palin’s daughter’s pregnancy. It is amazing that liberals are taking this opportunity to attack the ticket. When asked what he would do if his daughter became pregnant, Senator Obama said he would not want to force his daughter to have a child. Palin’s family was faced with this decision in real life, and they proved their devotion to the pro life cause.
That being said, I hope the press will give Palin’s family their privacy.
On Tuesday, Utah’s delegates will listen to Senator Bob Bennet on Tuesday morning. A tour of downtown Minneapolis including a visit to the Metrodome, lunch with Senator Hatch featuring Lee Greenwood and another service project will take up the bulk of the day. The schedule for the convention on Tuesday night has yet to be determined.
Monday night was supposed to be the night President Bush addressed the Republican National Convention, but instead Utah delegates spent Monday night preparing hygiene kits.
With Monday’s events abbreviated to only official business on Monday afternoon, delegates found there calendars empty on Monday evening. As Utahans do, delegates looked for ways to provide service.
The local wards of the local LDS stake literally overnight helped provide the items for the kits (which include two combs, two towels, two bars of soap, toothpaste and four toothbrushes). Getting the call on Sunday night, members purchased the needed items on Monday for the delegates to put together beginning at 6 p.m.
With the items provided, delegates put together approximately 1,000 kits.
Having participated in a number of county and state conventions, I am used to being able to debate platform amendments and rules amendments. This is not the case at a national convention. While these items are presented to delegates for approval, there is a script that is followed closely. The lesson learned is that if you want to have a real voice in the convention process, you need to put yourself in a position to be on one of the committees that are voted for by national delegates long before the convention.
While these committees have real power, the elections in the Utah delegation went largely uncontested with the exception of one race.
One item of discussion amongst delegates was news of Sarah Palin’s daughter’s pregnancy. It is amazing that liberals are taking this opportunity to attack the ticket. When asked what he would do if his daughter became pregnant, Senator Obama said he would not want to force his daughter to have a child. Palin’s family was faced with this decision in real life, and they proved their devotion to the pro life cause.
That being said, I hope the press will give Palin’s family their privacy.
On Tuesday, Utah’s delegates will listen to Senator Bob Bennet on Tuesday morning. A tour of downtown Minneapolis including a visit to the Metrodome, lunch with Senator Hatch featuring Lee Greenwood and another service project will take up the bulk of the day. The schedule for the convention on Tuesday night has yet to be determined.
Romney called them both mavericks who are willing to go against the political grain; praising Palin for putting an end to the "Bridge to Nowhere" as governor of Alaska.
Romney talked of Biden's so-called experience in foreign affairs. Noting that Biden opposed Reagan's military buildup; he opposed the Persian Gulf War and he favored breaking Iraq into three countries.
After Romney's speech, Stan Lockhart addressed the delegates reminding them that "I Can" (the last four letters of Republican and the basis of the state parties media blitz) sounds better than "O Crat".
Monday night was supposed to be the night President Bush addressed the Republican National Convention, but instead Utah delegates spent Monday night preparing hygiene kits.
With Monday’s events abbreviated to only official business on Monday afternoon, delegates found there calendars empty on Monday evening. As Utahans do, delegates looked for ways to provide service.
The local wards of the local LDS stake literally overnight helped provide the items for the kits (which include two combs, two towels, two bars of soap, toothpaste and four toothbrushes). Getting the call on Sunday night, members purchased the needed items on Monday for the delegates to put together beginning at 6 p.m.
With the items provided, delegates put together approximately 1,000 kits.
Having participated in a number of county and state conventions, I am used to being able to debate platform amendments and rules amendments. This is not the case at a national convention. While these items are presented to delegates for approval, there is a script that is followed closely. The lesson learned is that if you want to have a real voice in the convention process, you need to put yourself in a position to be on one of the committees that are voted for by national delegates long before the convention.
While these committees have real power, the elections in the Utah delegation went largely uncontested with the exception of one race.
One item of discussion amongst delegates was news of Sarah Palin’s daughter’s pregnancy. It is amazing that liberals are taking this opportunity to attack the ticket. When asked what he would do if his daughter became pregnant, Senator Obama said he would not want to force his daughter to have a child. Palin’s family was faced with this decision in real life, and they proved their devotion to the pro life cause.
That being said, I hope the press will give Palin’s family their privacy.
On Tuesday, Utah’s delegates will listen to Senator Bob Bennet on Tuesday morning. A tour of downtown Minneapolis including a visit to the Metrodome, lunch with Senator Hatch featuring Lee Greenwood and another service project will take up the bulk of the day. The schedule for the convention on Tuesday night has yet to be determined.
Monday night was supposed to be the night President Bush addressed the Republican National Convention, but instead Utah delegates spent Monday night preparing hygiene kits.
With Monday’s events abbreviated to only official business on Monday afternoon, delegates found there calendars empty on Monday evening. As Utahans do, delegates looked for ways to provide service.
The local wards of the local LDS stake literally overnight helped provide the items for the kits (which include two combs, two towels, two bars of soap, toothpaste and four toothbrushes). Getting the call on Sunday night, members purchased the needed items on Monday for the delegates to put together beginning at 6 p.m.
With the items provided, delegates put together approximately 1,000 kits.
Having participated in a number of county and state conventions, I am used to being able to debate platform amendments and rules amendments. This is not the case at a national convention. While these items are presented to delegates for approval, there is a script that is followed closely. The lesson learned is that if you want to have a real voice in the convention process, you need to put yourself in a position to be on one of the committees that are voted for by national delegates long before the convention.
While these committees have real power, the elections in the Utah delegation went largely uncontested with the exception of one race.
One item of discussion amongst delegates was news of Sarah Palin’s daughter’s pregnancy. It is amazing that liberals are taking this opportunity to attack the ticket. When asked what he would do if his daughter became pregnant, Senator Obama said he would not want to force his daughter to have a child. Palin’s family was faced with this decision in real life, and they proved their devotion to the pro life cause.
That being said, I hope the press will give Palin’s family their privacy.
On Tuesday, Utah’s delegates will listen to Senator Bob Bennet on Tuesday morning. A tour of downtown Minneapolis including a visit to the Metrodome, lunch with Senator Hatch featuring Lee Greenwood and another service project will take up the bulk of the day. The schedule for the convention on Tuesday night has yet to be determined.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Sunday Convention Blog
Minneapolis-St. Paul has done a wonderful job in rolling out the welcome wagon for the delegates. I am impressed by the number of volunteers. It seem wherever you go, there is a volunteer to greet you and make certain you know where you are going.
To welcome the delegates, they hosted a welcome reception tonight. This was held in conjunction with their Civic Fest.
At the Civic Fest they have a number of exhibits devoted to the history of the Presidency and the history of Minnesota. Highlights included a replica of Air Force One, Presidential China and Presidential Limousines. One interesting fact was that Reagan had his limousine made taller than regular limousines so that he could wear his cowboy hat.
Also as part of the exhibit they had an exhibit of Lincoln’s life. One of the more sobering aspects of the exhibit was on the Civil War. On a day by day basis, it showed how the war was going for each side. In the lower right hand corner it had a ticker on the number of causalities on both sides of the war. It boggles the mind how many were killed and injured on each side.
After the Civic Fest, I attended a delegate reception for those in the party who want to promote freedom and more personal responsibility in the party. It was refreshing to see so many first time delegates in attendance (out of the approximately 300 in attendance only one had previously been a national delegate).
While many in the group have not been John McCain fans, his selection of Sarah Palin for the vice presidency has a chance to energize this group. If McCain and his campaign are smart (and thus far they have run a very good general election campaign) they will use Palin to reach out to this group of voters.
In critical battleground states they could represent the swing votes the party needs to win. Thus far the party has largely ignored this group. In my discussions with conservatives, Palin’s nomination has gotten many to reexamine the Republican ticket.
If Republicans are smart they will use this time to reach out to them.
On Monday, delegates will listen to Governor Mitt Romney and visit History Fort Snelling prior to the start of the convention. Due to Hurricane Gustav, Monday night’s session which was to feature President Bush has been cancelled. The Utah Republican Leadership has planned a humanitarian project for the delegates.
To welcome the delegates, they hosted a welcome reception tonight. This was held in conjunction with their Civic Fest.
At the Civic Fest they have a number of exhibits devoted to the history of the Presidency and the history of Minnesota. Highlights included a replica of Air Force One, Presidential China and Presidential Limousines. One interesting fact was that Reagan had his limousine made taller than regular limousines so that he could wear his cowboy hat.
Also as part of the exhibit they had an exhibit of Lincoln’s life. One of the more sobering aspects of the exhibit was on the Civil War. On a day by day basis, it showed how the war was going for each side. In the lower right hand corner it had a ticker on the number of causalities on both sides of the war. It boggles the mind how many were killed and injured on each side.
After the Civic Fest, I attended a delegate reception for those in the party who want to promote freedom and more personal responsibility in the party. It was refreshing to see so many first time delegates in attendance (out of the approximately 300 in attendance only one had previously been a national delegate).
While many in the group have not been John McCain fans, his selection of Sarah Palin for the vice presidency has a chance to energize this group. If McCain and his campaign are smart (and thus far they have run a very good general election campaign) they will use Palin to reach out to this group of voters.
In critical battleground states they could represent the swing votes the party needs to win. Thus far the party has largely ignored this group. In my discussions with conservatives, Palin’s nomination has gotten many to reexamine the Republican ticket.
If Republicans are smart they will use this time to reach out to them.
On Monday, delegates will listen to Governor Mitt Romney and visit History Fort Snelling prior to the start of the convention. Due to Hurricane Gustav, Monday night’s session which was to feature President Bush has been cancelled. The Utah Republican Leadership has planned a humanitarian project for the delegates.
Friday, August 29, 2008
The VP Pick
On the surface, McCain's pick of Sarah Palin appears to be a good move. She is right on several issues:
1) She is pro-life.
2) She is a life long member of the NRA
3) She believes in traditional marriage
4) She is for utilizing the nation's resources to solve the energy crisis
5) She stand for ethics reform
6) She has a record of decreasing taxes
The devil is always in the details, but I can say I agree with her on these six issues. Most of these are core Republican issues.
I admit I was nervous that McCain would pick a Lieberman or Ridge, but his choice of Palin has energized the base and stole Obama's thunder after his speech. Thus far McCain's camp has made the right moves.
1) She is pro-life.
2) She is a life long member of the NRA
3) She believes in traditional marriage
4) She is for utilizing the nation's resources to solve the energy crisis
5) She stand for ethics reform
6) She has a record of decreasing taxes
The devil is always in the details, but I can say I agree with her on these six issues. Most of these are core Republican issues.
I admit I was nervous that McCain would pick a Lieberman or Ridge, but his choice of Palin has energized the base and stole Obama's thunder after his speech. Thus far McCain's camp has made the right moves.
Monday, August 25, 2008
What to Do With Utah Delegates
As we prepare for the national convention, prominent John McCain supporters pushed for Utah's delegation to be unbound to Mitt Romney so they would have to vote for John McCain.
In the February primary Utah voters gave Mitt Romney over 90% of their vote. An attempt to unbind the delegates to Romney at the state convention was defeated. Then at the last possible second (after the deadline for filing convention challenges had passed) the Utah Republican State Central Committee decided to give the bylaw which had awarded all of the delegates to Romney a new meaning. One that effectively would bind the delegates to McCain. This interpetation was sent to central committee hours at approximately 5 p.m. before a state central committee meeting the next morning. Just as Clinton attempted to redefine what the meaning of the word "is" is, Utah Republican leaders decided to change the definition of what a candidate is.
As a candidate for national committeeman and national delegate at the state convention, the state delegates knew the definition and they wanted their votes to go to Romney.
Now as a national delegate I must decide if I should follow the interpetation of the rule as understood by Utah voters or the tortured interpetation that was thrown at central commitee members at the last possible second when the issue had been before us for over six months.
Here is an oped piece that I authored which appeared in The Salt Lake Tribune on the subject.
Follow the link:
http://www.sltrib.com/opinion/ci_10223675
In the February primary Utah voters gave Mitt Romney over 90% of their vote. An attempt to unbind the delegates to Romney at the state convention was defeated. Then at the last possible second (after the deadline for filing convention challenges had passed) the Utah Republican State Central Committee decided to give the bylaw which had awarded all of the delegates to Romney a new meaning. One that effectively would bind the delegates to McCain. This interpetation was sent to central committee hours at approximately 5 p.m. before a state central committee meeting the next morning. Just as Clinton attempted to redefine what the meaning of the word "is" is, Utah Republican leaders decided to change the definition of what a candidate is.
As a candidate for national committeeman and national delegate at the state convention, the state delegates knew the definition and they wanted their votes to go to Romney.
Now as a national delegate I must decide if I should follow the interpetation of the rule as understood by Utah voters or the tortured interpetation that was thrown at central commitee members at the last possible second when the issue had been before us for over six months.
Here is an oped piece that I authored which appeared in The Salt Lake Tribune on the subject.
Follow the link:
http://www.sltrib.com/opinion/ci_10223675
Thursday, May 1, 2008
GrassRoots Report Released
For the past seven years, I have authored the GrassRoots report. It is now posted to our website:
http://www:utahgrassroots.org
http://www:utahgrassroots.org
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Email Address
If you would like to contact me, please email me at donguymon@msn.com.
I am happy to answer any question you may have.
Don
I am happy to answer any question you may have.
Don
Column on Illegal Immigration
Below is an op ed piece I have written on illegal immigration:
Stop Illegal Immigration
By Don Guymon
In the 2008 Legislative Session, both chambers passed S.B. 81 an omnibus illegal immigration bill. The bill had several good measures to curb illegal immigration. Unfortunately both chambers put off implementation until 2009 so further research can be done on illegal immigration.
It is surprising that individuals would feel the need to study the issue of illegal immigration further. Why do we need to wait a year when this has been studied for many years? Is not the fact that individual here illegally enough?
S.B. 81 would require county sheriffs to verify the immigration status of foreign nationals; prohibited the alcoholic beverage control commission from granting liquor or private club licenses to individuals who are not in the country illegally; prohibits local entities from keeping their law enforcement officers from enforcing immigration laws and requires employers who contract with the state to verify whether their workers are legal to work in the United States.
This bill was pretty straightforward, so why do we need to study it further?
It was not just that implementation of S.B. 81 was put off until 2009. Several other good bills died. Bills that would have prohibited illegal immigrants from receiving instate tuition and stopped the issuance of driver privilege cards died and not for the first time.
Many say that the issue of illegal immigration is a federal issue and the state should not deal with it. Yes it is a federal issue. At a time when we are fighting a war on terror, it makes little sense that our borders are not under control.
But the state also has a role to play.
If the state is providing driver privilege cards to those who are here illegally, is not the state aiding and abetting and abiding the breaking of federal law?
If the state is giving preferential treatment to the children of illegal immigrants over students from other states who want to study at public schools, is the state not aiding and abetting the breaking of federal law?
Many argue that these are good men and women simply here to make a better life for their family. Good intentions aside, good people do not break the law.
For example MSNBC recently reported that nine million people had inaccurate social security taxes. While some of these may be mistaken, many are because of illegal aliens stealing people’s identification.
The recent raid of illegal immigrants at Swift Meatpacking plants found over 1,200 individuals arrested for identity theft.
Illegal immigration is an issue that our lawmakers are going to have to deal with whether they like it or not.
During the impeachment of President Clinton, we heard that this must happen because we as a nation believed in the rule of law. If we are still a nation that believes in the rule of law, we can begin by insuring that all individuals arrive in this country legally
The failure of lawmakers to enact S.B. 81 in 2008 shows that many do not take the problem of illegal immigration seriously. Legal citizens will continue to have crowded classrooms, higher health care, and the inconvenience of having to restore their identity because this problem will continue.
If citizens do not stay vigilant, S.B. 81 will be gutted during the 2009 session, and Utah will continue to do very little to curb this growing epidemic.
Stop Illegal Immigration
By Don Guymon
In the 2008 Legislative Session, both chambers passed S.B. 81 an omnibus illegal immigration bill. The bill had several good measures to curb illegal immigration. Unfortunately both chambers put off implementation until 2009 so further research can be done on illegal immigration.
It is surprising that individuals would feel the need to study the issue of illegal immigration further. Why do we need to wait a year when this has been studied for many years? Is not the fact that individual here illegally enough?
S.B. 81 would require county sheriffs to verify the immigration status of foreign nationals; prohibited the alcoholic beverage control commission from granting liquor or private club licenses to individuals who are not in the country illegally; prohibits local entities from keeping their law enforcement officers from enforcing immigration laws and requires employers who contract with the state to verify whether their workers are legal to work in the United States.
This bill was pretty straightforward, so why do we need to study it further?
It was not just that implementation of S.B. 81 was put off until 2009. Several other good bills died. Bills that would have prohibited illegal immigrants from receiving instate tuition and stopped the issuance of driver privilege cards died and not for the first time.
Many say that the issue of illegal immigration is a federal issue and the state should not deal with it. Yes it is a federal issue. At a time when we are fighting a war on terror, it makes little sense that our borders are not under control.
But the state also has a role to play.
If the state is providing driver privilege cards to those who are here illegally, is not the state aiding and abetting and abiding the breaking of federal law?
If the state is giving preferential treatment to the children of illegal immigrants over students from other states who want to study at public schools, is the state not aiding and abetting the breaking of federal law?
Many argue that these are good men and women simply here to make a better life for their family. Good intentions aside, good people do not break the law.
For example MSNBC recently reported that nine million people had inaccurate social security taxes. While some of these may be mistaken, many are because of illegal aliens stealing people’s identification.
The recent raid of illegal immigrants at Swift Meatpacking plants found over 1,200 individuals arrested for identity theft.
Illegal immigration is an issue that our lawmakers are going to have to deal with whether they like it or not.
During the impeachment of President Clinton, we heard that this must happen because we as a nation believed in the rule of law. If we are still a nation that believes in the rule of law, we can begin by insuring that all individuals arrive in this country legally
The failure of lawmakers to enact S.B. 81 in 2008 shows that many do not take the problem of illegal immigration seriously. Legal citizens will continue to have crowded classrooms, higher health care, and the inconvenience of having to restore their identity because this problem will continue.
If citizens do not stay vigilant, S.B. 81 will be gutted during the 2009 session, and Utah will continue to do very little to curb this growing epidemic.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Consistency
Below is a column I wrote for a past GrassRoots report:
Consistency.
If we could achieve this one word in Utah politics, it would be a great day for this state.
Opponents of H.B. 148 which introduced educational vouchers to the state lamented the cost. Yet 30 of the 48 House and Senate members who voted against vouchers had no problem giving $15 million of the citizen’s money to build a soccer stadium.
If sending every dollar possible to educate our children is the real reason to oppose vouchers why is the $15 million soccer stadium an exception?
If it is so important that every possible dollar be spent on classroom spending, why did 34 of the 37 representatives who voted against vouchers oppose insuring more money was funneled into the classroom? H.B. 193 would have required that 65% of school funding be spent on instruction. The bill was defeated in the House 24-49-2.
One would think that if the state was not spending enough money to teach its children then we would be attempting to streamline our system. Yet S.B 49, which creates extended day kindergarten in the state, passed overwhelmingly. The bill carries a $30 million price tag for the first year.
Many of our politicians proclaim the pro-life mantle and talk about the importance of protecting the unborn. H.B. 235 would have been a test case to challenge Roe v. Wade which legalized abortion. In a year of record spending increases, it was decided that the unborn was not as high a priority as a soccer stadium for a millionaire.
Being consistent when it comes to principals is not easy. This year H.B. 84 which created the Traumatic Brain Injury Fund passed both chambers by large margins. The money comes from increased fines for those convicted of DUI’s. Certainly those who commit this crime should be punished, but is creating another government program the way to go? What happens if we are ever able to rid the society of drunk driving, how will this continue to be funded? For those who decry socialized medicine, isn’t such a bill a step in the direction of a government run system?
This year it became more difficult to purchase cough and cold medicines. Yet nothing was done to curb the attack on our borders of illegal immigration.
Of course, the lack of consistency is not only absent in our state politics. On a national level, conservatives are falling all over themselves to support candidates who only recently were pro-abortion and pro-gay rights.
Our lack of consistency will eventually hurt this state. Currently our economy is growing and unemployment is very low. Yet government has grown larger than the rate of inflation and according to the Utah Taxpayers Association has grown on average 9% over the past two years.
What will happen to this state when the economic good times end? It may not be a popular notion but every Economics 101 class in college teaches of economic cycles with times of growth such as we are in now, but times of correction when the economy does not fair as well.
When the economy goes bad, as it inevitably will, who will pay for the increased state spending? How will we fund full day kindergarten or a soccer stadium and the myriad of other programs which have been recently implemented?
While our lawmakers should be praised for recent tax cuts, ultimately the lack of fiscal restraint will ultimately lead to an increased tax burden. Because when faced with cutting spending or raising taxes, unfortunately our elected officials have been remarkably consistent. Please hold onto your wallets. That will be the price we will pay for inconsistency in our state government.
Consistency.
If we could achieve this one word in Utah politics, it would be a great day for this state.
Opponents of H.B. 148 which introduced educational vouchers to the state lamented the cost. Yet 30 of the 48 House and Senate members who voted against vouchers had no problem giving $15 million of the citizen’s money to build a soccer stadium.
If sending every dollar possible to educate our children is the real reason to oppose vouchers why is the $15 million soccer stadium an exception?
If it is so important that every possible dollar be spent on classroom spending, why did 34 of the 37 representatives who voted against vouchers oppose insuring more money was funneled into the classroom? H.B. 193 would have required that 65% of school funding be spent on instruction. The bill was defeated in the House 24-49-2.
One would think that if the state was not spending enough money to teach its children then we would be attempting to streamline our system. Yet S.B 49, which creates extended day kindergarten in the state, passed overwhelmingly. The bill carries a $30 million price tag for the first year.
Many of our politicians proclaim the pro-life mantle and talk about the importance of protecting the unborn. H.B. 235 would have been a test case to challenge Roe v. Wade which legalized abortion. In a year of record spending increases, it was decided that the unborn was not as high a priority as a soccer stadium for a millionaire.
Being consistent when it comes to principals is not easy. This year H.B. 84 which created the Traumatic Brain Injury Fund passed both chambers by large margins. The money comes from increased fines for those convicted of DUI’s. Certainly those who commit this crime should be punished, but is creating another government program the way to go? What happens if we are ever able to rid the society of drunk driving, how will this continue to be funded? For those who decry socialized medicine, isn’t such a bill a step in the direction of a government run system?
This year it became more difficult to purchase cough and cold medicines. Yet nothing was done to curb the attack on our borders of illegal immigration.
Of course, the lack of consistency is not only absent in our state politics. On a national level, conservatives are falling all over themselves to support candidates who only recently were pro-abortion and pro-gay rights.
Our lack of consistency will eventually hurt this state. Currently our economy is growing and unemployment is very low. Yet government has grown larger than the rate of inflation and according to the Utah Taxpayers Association has grown on average 9% over the past two years.
What will happen to this state when the economic good times end? It may not be a popular notion but every Economics 101 class in college teaches of economic cycles with times of growth such as we are in now, but times of correction when the economy does not fair as well.
When the economy goes bad, as it inevitably will, who will pay for the increased state spending? How will we fund full day kindergarten or a soccer stadium and the myriad of other programs which have been recently implemented?
While our lawmakers should be praised for recent tax cuts, ultimately the lack of fiscal restraint will ultimately lead to an increased tax burden. Because when faced with cutting spending or raising taxes, unfortunately our elected officials have been remarkably consistent. Please hold onto your wallets. That will be the price we will pay for inconsistency in our state government.
The Politics of Hate
Below is a commentary I wrote for GrassRoots after a past legislative session:
The Politics of Hate
By: Don Guymon
Hate is the strongest word in the English language, but it has become the favorite word of many on the left.
For the ninth straight year, hate crimes legislation reared its ugly head. News media outlets attempted to whip Utahns into frenzy by making them believe that they are all at risk if hate crime laws do not pass. Stories fill the air and pages of our newspapers about individuals who have suffered persecution. These stories routinely fail to acknowledge that these deplorable acts are already against the law.
When this legislation fails each session, these same institutions accuse those who opposed this legislation of being hateful.
Yet the accusations of hate do not stop there. Take for example last November’s debate over Amendment Three, which declared that marriage in the state of Utah would be between a man and a woman. This is how marriage has been defined since the beginning of time, yet many in Utah just recently came to the knowledge that if you believe in traditional values you must be guilty of hate.
It is ironic that some people supported both Amendment Three and hate crimes. What is truly scary is how easily the term hate was thrown out. One is left to ask the questions of those on the left, “If you supported Amendment Three, are you guilty of a hate crime?”
When one looks around the world, one sees instances where those who have stood up for traditional values have faced criminal prosecution. While we have not seen this yet in the United States, it appears that many would place us down the slippery slope where if one professes any moral values they risk being thrown in jail.
Yet, the labeling of hate doesn’t stop there. We recently learned that if one supports public property rights and opposes the transfer of tax dollars from the public to private enterprise one is also hateful.
If one supports the rule of law then they must be a hateful person. Individuals who believe only lawful citizens should receive privileges such as driver’s licenses and instate tuition are routinely labeled as hateful and racist.
Sen. Curt Bramble (R-UT) sponsored S.B. 227, which reformed Redevelopment Agencies. RDA abuse has run rampant in many years, as individuals have seen their property taken to be most confiscated to build large retail projects. Another project targeted for RDA money was a soccer stadium for Salt Lake City’s newest entry into the Major League of Soccer.
Bramble’s family woke up one morning to find messages of hate written on their driveway and a soccer ball with a hateful message sitting on his family’s porch. One of the messages stated, “You hate soccer.”
It is ironic that no where did I find any mention in any media outlet about the possibility of this being a hate crime, because evidently legislators who sponsor good legislation are not a protected group.
When talking about hate, attacks on family never seem to be hateful. The past two sessions, several good bills to protect the rights of families have come before the legislature and not been passed. Rep. Mike Morley (R-UT) introduced H.B. 42 which prevents school personnel from recommending psychotropic drugs to parents. Even worse, if parents do not follow the recommendations of school personnel they risk the chance of their children being permanently removed from their families. Why are attacks such as this not considered hateful?
Yet when Governor Huntsman vetoed this excellent piece of legislation nobody ever accused Huntsman of hating families.
Instead, those who routinely support families are the ones labeled as hateful. Since the left routinely lets us know that their intrusion into families lives, “Is for the children.”
When good family legislation, such as Morley’s, is introduced the left routinely tells us that we can’t trust parents. They argue that legislation which protects parents who choose to home school their children will hurt the children. They argue that legislation which protects parents’ rights when threatened with having their families involuntarily split apart will hurt children.
What the left has forgotten is the word love. While occasionally some parents put their children in harm’s way, the vast majority of parents love their children and want what is best for them. Because they love their children, government should get out of the way and allow them to raise their children to the best of their abilities.
Unfortunately, the left has become so focused on hate they do not believe that anyone, but themselves is capable of feeling or showing love.
In reality, they themselves should look in the mirror and ask themselves if their behavior is not truly the behavior that is hateful.
The Politics of Hate
By: Don Guymon
Hate is the strongest word in the English language, but it has become the favorite word of many on the left.
For the ninth straight year, hate crimes legislation reared its ugly head. News media outlets attempted to whip Utahns into frenzy by making them believe that they are all at risk if hate crime laws do not pass. Stories fill the air and pages of our newspapers about individuals who have suffered persecution. These stories routinely fail to acknowledge that these deplorable acts are already against the law.
When this legislation fails each session, these same institutions accuse those who opposed this legislation of being hateful.
Yet the accusations of hate do not stop there. Take for example last November’s debate over Amendment Three, which declared that marriage in the state of Utah would be between a man and a woman. This is how marriage has been defined since the beginning of time, yet many in Utah just recently came to the knowledge that if you believe in traditional values you must be guilty of hate.
It is ironic that some people supported both Amendment Three and hate crimes. What is truly scary is how easily the term hate was thrown out. One is left to ask the questions of those on the left, “If you supported Amendment Three, are you guilty of a hate crime?”
When one looks around the world, one sees instances where those who have stood up for traditional values have faced criminal prosecution. While we have not seen this yet in the United States, it appears that many would place us down the slippery slope where if one professes any moral values they risk being thrown in jail.
Yet, the labeling of hate doesn’t stop there. We recently learned that if one supports public property rights and opposes the transfer of tax dollars from the public to private enterprise one is also hateful.
If one supports the rule of law then they must be a hateful person. Individuals who believe only lawful citizens should receive privileges such as driver’s licenses and instate tuition are routinely labeled as hateful and racist.
Sen. Curt Bramble (R-UT) sponsored S.B. 227, which reformed Redevelopment Agencies. RDA abuse has run rampant in many years, as individuals have seen their property taken to be most confiscated to build large retail projects. Another project targeted for RDA money was a soccer stadium for Salt Lake City’s newest entry into the Major League of Soccer.
Bramble’s family woke up one morning to find messages of hate written on their driveway and a soccer ball with a hateful message sitting on his family’s porch. One of the messages stated, “You hate soccer.”
It is ironic that no where did I find any mention in any media outlet about the possibility of this being a hate crime, because evidently legislators who sponsor good legislation are not a protected group.
When talking about hate, attacks on family never seem to be hateful. The past two sessions, several good bills to protect the rights of families have come before the legislature and not been passed. Rep. Mike Morley (R-UT) introduced H.B. 42 which prevents school personnel from recommending psychotropic drugs to parents. Even worse, if parents do not follow the recommendations of school personnel they risk the chance of their children being permanently removed from their families. Why are attacks such as this not considered hateful?
Yet when Governor Huntsman vetoed this excellent piece of legislation nobody ever accused Huntsman of hating families.
Instead, those who routinely support families are the ones labeled as hateful. Since the left routinely lets us know that their intrusion into families lives, “Is for the children.”
When good family legislation, such as Morley’s, is introduced the left routinely tells us that we can’t trust parents. They argue that legislation which protects parents who choose to home school their children will hurt the children. They argue that legislation which protects parents’ rights when threatened with having their families involuntarily split apart will hurt children.
What the left has forgotten is the word love. While occasionally some parents put their children in harm’s way, the vast majority of parents love their children and want what is best for them. Because they love their children, government should get out of the way and allow them to raise their children to the best of their abilities.
Unfortunately, the left has become so focused on hate they do not believe that anyone, but themselves is capable of feeling or showing love.
In reality, they themselves should look in the mirror and ask themselves if their behavior is not truly the behavior that is hateful.
GrassRoots Prompts
For the past four years, GrassRoots has sent bookmarks to each legislator at the beginning of the session. These bookmarks are prompts for legislators to think about before they vote on a bill:
Sound Legislation Prompts
BEFORE VOTING, ASK YOURSELF: Have I read and understand the bill, and DOES THIS LEGISLATIVE ACTION…
· Increase taxes or fees?
· Expand the role or size of government?
· Create more dependency on government?
· Take away personal responsibility?
· Take away the rights of parents?
· Take away the right of individual choice?
· Stifle private prosperity?
· Contradict the right to life?
· Erode private property rights?
· Create inequality under the law?
· Is this a possible violation of the U.S. and/or Utah Constitution?
IF THE ANSWER IS YES TO ANY OF THE ABOVE, GRASSROOTS SUGGESTS A ‘NO’ VOTE.
www.utahgrassrooots.org
Sound Legislation Prompts
BEFORE VOTING, ASK YOURSELF: Have I read and understand the bill, and DOES THIS LEGISLATIVE ACTION…
· Increase taxes or fees?
· Expand the role or size of government?
· Create more dependency on government?
· Take away personal responsibility?
· Take away the rights of parents?
· Take away the right of individual choice?
· Stifle private prosperity?
· Contradict the right to life?
· Erode private property rights?
· Create inequality under the law?
· Is this a possible violation of the U.S. and/or Utah Constitution?
IF THE ANSWER IS YES TO ANY OF THE ABOVE, GRASSROOTS SUGGESTS A ‘NO’ VOTE.
www.utahgrassrooots.org
Abortion Resolution
Below is a copy of the abortion resolution I sponsored before the Utah Republican Central Committee. It passed unanimously.
Resolution Calling on State Senate to Pass
Pro-Life Legislation
By Don Guymon
Whereas, the platform of the Utah State Republican Party states, “We believe in the right to life for both the born and unborn. We strongly oppose abortion, except to preserve the life of the mother or in cases of rape or incest. We believe the unborn child has a fundamental right to life which cannot be infringed. We believe all human life is sacred regardless of age or infirmity, and therefore we oppose abortion, euthanasia, assisted
suicide, and the public funding of any of these abhorrent practices.”
Whereas, the Utah House of Representatives passed H.B. 123 by a vote of 56-14-4 sponsored by Rep. Morgan Philpot which would have banned the public funding of abortion in the state of Utah, and the Utah State Senate failed to bring the bill to a vote on the floor of the senate.
Whereas, the Utah House of Representatives passed H.B. 241 by a vote of 66-8-1 sponsored by Rep. Mike Thompson which would have strengthened Utah’s partial birth abortion laws, and the Utah State Senate failed to bring the bill to a vote on the floor of the senate.
Whereas, the Utah House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed resolutions in 2000 and 2002 sponsored by Rep. Glen Way which called for an amendment to the United States Constitution banning abortion, and the Utah State Senate failed to bring either resolution to a vote on the floor of the senate.
Whereas, in 2001 the Center for Disease Control reported that 3,594 abortions were performed in the state of Utah.
Be it resolved that the Utah Republican State Central Committee thanks the members of the Utah House of Representatives who voted to stand for the rights of the unborn.
Be it further resolved that the Utah Republican State Central Committee implores the Utah State Senate to pass legislation as soon as possible to ban the public funding of abortion, strengthen Utah’s partial birth abortion laws and other legislation deemed necessary to protect the lives of the unborn.
Be it further resolved that the Utah Republican State Central Committee directs the party chairman to authenticate this resolution and send copies to Governor Olene Walker, Senate President Al Mansell, Senate Majority Leader Michael Waddoups, all other Republican members of the Utah State Senate, and all major media outlets in the state
of Utah.
Passed unanimously by the Utah Republican Central Committee at its Dec. 2003 meeting.
Resolution Calling on State Senate to Pass
Pro-Life Legislation
By Don Guymon
Whereas, the platform of the Utah State Republican Party states, “We believe in the right to life for both the born and unborn. We strongly oppose abortion, except to preserve the life of the mother or in cases of rape or incest. We believe the unborn child has a fundamental right to life which cannot be infringed. We believe all human life is sacred regardless of age or infirmity, and therefore we oppose abortion, euthanasia, assisted
suicide, and the public funding of any of these abhorrent practices.”
Whereas, the Utah House of Representatives passed H.B. 123 by a vote of 56-14-4 sponsored by Rep. Morgan Philpot which would have banned the public funding of abortion in the state of Utah, and the Utah State Senate failed to bring the bill to a vote on the floor of the senate.
Whereas, the Utah House of Representatives passed H.B. 241 by a vote of 66-8-1 sponsored by Rep. Mike Thompson which would have strengthened Utah’s partial birth abortion laws, and the Utah State Senate failed to bring the bill to a vote on the floor of the senate.
Whereas, the Utah House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed resolutions in 2000 and 2002 sponsored by Rep. Glen Way which called for an amendment to the United States Constitution banning abortion, and the Utah State Senate failed to bring either resolution to a vote on the floor of the senate.
Whereas, in 2001 the Center for Disease Control reported that 3,594 abortions were performed in the state of Utah.
Be it resolved that the Utah Republican State Central Committee thanks the members of the Utah House of Representatives who voted to stand for the rights of the unborn.
Be it further resolved that the Utah Republican State Central Committee implores the Utah State Senate to pass legislation as soon as possible to ban the public funding of abortion, strengthen Utah’s partial birth abortion laws and other legislation deemed necessary to protect the lives of the unborn.
Be it further resolved that the Utah Republican State Central Committee directs the party chairman to authenticate this resolution and send copies to Governor Olene Walker, Senate President Al Mansell, Senate Majority Leader Michael Waddoups, all other Republican members of the Utah State Senate, and all major media outlets in the state
of Utah.
Passed unanimously by the Utah Republican Central Committee at its Dec. 2003 meeting.
National Committeeman Race
Don Guymon
for
National Committeeman
Dear Delegates,
Thank you for your service to our party. Service such as yours is what keeps our republic and party great.
Our party and our nation are at a critical juncture. We must decide if we will remain committed to the principles which have made us the greatest nation on the face of the earth. I believe that a Republican Party committed to its principles is essential for our nation to remain strong.
As the father of five children, I am concerned for their future. I am blessed to have a supportive wife, who supports me in my efforts to serve the party. In my profession, I currently run the retail operations for a major telecommunications company in the state and have an MBA from Utah State University.
In the party, I have served nine years on the state central committee where I have served as the Constitution and Bylaws vice chair. I was also selected by former chairmen Rob Bishop and Joe Cannon to serve on the rules and resolutions committee. In Davis County I have served as a legislative chair, rules chair and elections chair.
For the past three years, I have been the chairman of Grassroots and have written their legislative report since 2001 (utahgrassroots.org).
Amongst the decisions we must face as a party are whether we will remain committed to principles of limited government, lower taxes, protection of all of our rights and freedoms including the right to life. As a party, we must decide if we will be a party that believes in the rule of law including our party laws but also laws such as our immigration laws.. On the national level we must look at our primary process and insure that all states have a voice in the selection of our presidential nominee.
I will be an effective voice for these issues, because of the service I have rendered in the past which includes:
· In 2008, I wrote and sponsored a bylaw in Davis County which called on all candidates to state whether they supported the party platform.
· Since I was vice chair of the Constitution and Bylaws Committee, I have joined with others to insure state delegates have a voice in the party. I have spoken on state convention floor to protect the rights of state delegates to sponsor bylaws and constitutional amendments.
· I led the effort in Davis County to pass Amendment Three which protected traditional marriage.
· In 2004, I sponsored resolutions at county and state conventions which called upon the State Senate to pass an abortion resolution that it has not passed the previous session. The bill passed that session. I also passed resolutions in 2000 which called upon the party to choose a pro life vice presidential nominee.
· In 1999, I sponsored resolutions which called upon the state party to not pass any further gun laws. Both resolutions passed at the state convention and state central committee.
I am proud to be a conservative who supports our party platform. You know I will stand strong for you and the party because I have done so in the past. If elected I will make my self accessible to you. If you have any questions prior to or after the convention please contact me at donguymon@msn.com or call me at 801-574-9461.
Thank You,
Don Guymon
for
National Committeeman
Dear Delegates,
Thank you for your service to our party. Service such as yours is what keeps our republic and party great.
Our party and our nation are at a critical juncture. We must decide if we will remain committed to the principles which have made us the greatest nation on the face of the earth. I believe that a Republican Party committed to its principles is essential for our nation to remain strong.
As the father of five children, I am concerned for their future. I am blessed to have a supportive wife, who supports me in my efforts to serve the party. In my profession, I currently run the retail operations for a major telecommunications company in the state and have an MBA from Utah State University.
In the party, I have served nine years on the state central committee where I have served as the Constitution and Bylaws vice chair. I was also selected by former chairmen Rob Bishop and Joe Cannon to serve on the rules and resolutions committee. In Davis County I have served as a legislative chair, rules chair and elections chair.
For the past three years, I have been the chairman of Grassroots and have written their legislative report since 2001 (utahgrassroots.org).
Amongst the decisions we must face as a party are whether we will remain committed to principles of limited government, lower taxes, protection of all of our rights and freedoms including the right to life. As a party, we must decide if we will be a party that believes in the rule of law including our party laws but also laws such as our immigration laws.. On the national level we must look at our primary process and insure that all states have a voice in the selection of our presidential nominee.
I will be an effective voice for these issues, because of the service I have rendered in the past which includes:
· In 2008, I wrote and sponsored a bylaw in Davis County which called on all candidates to state whether they supported the party platform.
· Since I was vice chair of the Constitution and Bylaws Committee, I have joined with others to insure state delegates have a voice in the party. I have spoken on state convention floor to protect the rights of state delegates to sponsor bylaws and constitutional amendments.
· I led the effort in Davis County to pass Amendment Three which protected traditional marriage.
· In 2004, I sponsored resolutions at county and state conventions which called upon the State Senate to pass an abortion resolution that it has not passed the previous session. The bill passed that session. I also passed resolutions in 2000 which called upon the party to choose a pro life vice presidential nominee.
· In 1999, I sponsored resolutions which called upon the state party to not pass any further gun laws. Both resolutions passed at the state convention and state central committee.
I am proud to be a conservative who supports our party platform. You know I will stand strong for you and the party because I have done so in the past. If elected I will make my self accessible to you. If you have any questions prior to or after the convention please contact me at donguymon@msn.com or call me at 801-574-9461.
Thank You,
Don Guymon
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