From Deseret News archives:
Huntsman is not afraid to shake things up
The intelligent and articulate Leavitt started out strong, but legislative leaders caught on that he would cave into their demands. Further, he was unwilling to build the necessary legislative and public coalitions to pass his plans. By the close of the second term, the administration was a submissive creature to the Legislature (i.e., his budget was no longer reviewed in appropriations committees).
Always commanding solid approval ratings, Leavitt refused to spend his enormous political capital to challenge lawmakers and/or the more conservative factions in the GOP. After 11 years, this is the behavior most legislators expect from the executive branch.
Conversely, Walker's unprecedented popularity is a reflection of bipartisan public desire for a leader holding strong positions (i.e. radioactive waste, vouchers) despite legislative and political opposition. Clearly, this is what citizens hunger for from their new governor.
As with the financial world, if you risk capital and the investment succeeds, the account is replenished beyond the original amount. Several of Huntsman's predecessors were disciples of this philosophy. Govs. Cal Rampton and Norm Bangerter consistently gambled their political fortunes in the public arena, and are beloved for such courage. They knew gubernatorial leadership is best exhibited by persuading legislators to act contrary to their natural desires. Rampton persuaded lawmakers to pass a necessary, but unpopular, bonding package and Bangerter cajoled legislators into raising numerous taxes.
Comments
- Nevada wild-horse roundup OK'd 8:09 p.m.
- Economic woes ahead for states 8:09 p.m.
- Aggie women beat Bison 8:00 p.m.
- Utes stung by empty possessions 7:58 p.m.
- Swine flu vaccine available to all 7:12 p.m.
- Boy hit by car after sledding 6:51 p.m.
- Health care exchange not taking off 6:22 p.m.
- No prison for couple in scheme 6:21 p.m.
- Sources say Halladay to Phillies 5:55 p.m.
- House gives Real honor 5:53 p.m.
- Wet spot found in Powell's home
- Sources: Josh Powell hires attorney
- Y. opponent nearly smelled roses
- D-Will treats military families to party
- MWC looks better in basketball
- Maynor amazed by L.A. fans
- Pace happy not to be noticed
- High school football: All-region teams
- Jazz Extra: Starting 5
- BYU singers compete in 'Sing Off'
- Palin signs books, chats with fans
178 - Nude bathers cited for lewdness
152 - Gay-friendly curriculum phased out
142 - LDS to emphasize helping needy
125 - Jazz fall apart late at L.A.
110 - Unga might enter NFL draft
106 - BYU to wear royal blue uniforms
101 - Disappearance called 'suspicious'
96 - TV mom gives birth to 19th child
95 - Choir, guests unwrap musical magic
84
First of all, to "20/20," how can you read newspapers and not understand...
For the latest news in the health care debate and how it affects you...
"Where do you get the idea that the purpose of life is to help others at the...
For all of you saying he should be paying to live in a cave. According to our...
I suggest that TV commercials be banned, or if that is not possible, show the...
Didn't we have this until the 50's? Tracks are buried under many streets in...
Ditto to both comments above. I've been watching 'The Locater' for a long...
The article didn't state the man's criminal history, but let's assume he's...
I dont know who this Susan is or any of her own family.Just want you to know...
The Utah GOP is a rogue group aren’t they? I hope they get a better...
Utah is the only state that allows its standing legislators to sit on the...
ogden=snow capital of utah for the cities it alway's seems to get the most...


You can be the first to comment on this story.