From Deseret News archives:
Proceed with Feb. 5 primary
That date quickly is shaping up to be a nationwide mega day of decision. So far, 19 states have decided to hold primaries, conventions or caucuses on that day, including the very large and attention-hungry state of California. Earlier, Utah had hoped that only a small group of Western states would hold primaries on that date, and that this would force presidential candidates to pay attention to the unique issues and concerns of this region. A nationwide primary would dilute that significantly.
But that's no reason to avoid holding a vote. Both the governor's office and leaders of the Democratic and Republican parties expressed the reason well in this newspaper on Sunday. Utahns should hold a primary so that voters here get a say in picking the Republican and Democrat who most likely will emerge as candidates for president.
In other words, the focus of a Utah primary has changed. It no longer is about bringing attention to the state. It is about people of this state having a say along with much of the rest of the nation.
A recent poll commissioned for this newspaper and KSL-TV by Dan Jones & Associates found that Utahns overwhelmingly oppose spending money on a primary. Only about a quarter were in favor. Our guess is many of those surveyed hadn't considered the value of at least being able to cast a vote in a process that until now has been more or less decided entirely by people elsewhere.
Because of its small population and its history of voting Republican, Utah never will be a big player nationally. For some reason, however, states that are equally insignificant politically, such as New Hampshire and Iowa, have been given huge clout when it comes to whittling away at the presidential field.
Feb. 5 will give people here a say, if nothing else. The presence of other Western states could combine to force some attention from candidates, as well. Frankly, $3.5 million is a small price to pay for that.
Comments
- Mormon mom finds stability in music 12:08 a.m.
- The joys of doing Christmas last-minute 12:08 a.m.
- Is Tiger Woods a sex addict? 12:07 a.m.
- Visit boosts Filipino Mormons 12:07 a.m.
- Back Bench: Christmas spirit 12:07 a.m.
- The vital records of Jesus Christ 12:07 a.m.
- Today in the Bloggernacle 12:06 a.m.
- BYU claims five Fulbright Scholars 12:06 a.m.
- Living by the scriptures: Jacob 4:10 12:06 a.m.
- Family remembers fallen firefighter 12:05 a.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
- Pace happy not to be noticed
- Maynor amazed by L.A. fans
- High school football: All-region teams
- Jazz Extra: Starting 5
- Jazz will have full lineup tonight
- Gay-friendly curriculum phased out
145 - LDS to emphasize helping needy
125 - Unga might enter NFL draft
106 - BYU to wear royal blue uniforms
103 - Disappearance called 'suspicious'
96 - TV mom gives birth to 19th child
96 - Choir, guests unwrap musical magic
84 - Barkley says Boozer is big problem
81 - Sources: Josh Powell hires attorney
80 - Stay the course with our president
79
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...
I agree with the Anae supporters. He has been great for the program and I...
I was sad to see her go home after what I considered one of her best...
Wow. What a concept.
To the little brother comment: BYUs most famous and successful person...
Classic Jazz.
"The Utes drew about 9,200 for both the Michigan and Oklahoma games..."...
We have quit the childish bunch. BSU and Aggies fans are truly the baby...
@mark (snicker) 11:32 p.m.: "Yes, All Knowing (snicker) I have known poor...
Wow, lots of hostility for the man. I wonder why? I don't think some of...
You sure? What kind of oil can we cook with? What light bulb is "good"...


You can be the first to comment on this story.