• Look to Britain. Prime Minister Tony Blair resuscitated the Labor Party from political death by adjusting its focus toward issues vexing British families and jettisoning narrow special interest burdens. He articulated that left- and right-wing elements were stagnant, and leadership could only come from the middle or the "Third Way." From their current weakness, Utah Democrats can rebound and provide a Third Way alternative in policy deliberations.

• Every member a missionary. Neither political party has a monopoly on wisdom or foolishness. Democrats should refrain from malicious partisan jabs (although good-natured jokes are always welcome), express respect for their neighbor's opinion while explaining what Democrats have to offer. While this may not result in wholesale conversion, it may convince some Republicans to consider Democratic alternatives.

Good government is dependent upon a vigorous and healthy competition of ideas. Thus, Utah Democrats have a moral obligation to restore the strength and appeal of their party across the state. I am optimistic we will rise to the occasion.

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Republican LaVarr Webb was policy deputy to Gov. Mike Leavitt and Deseret News managing editor. He now is a political consultant and lobbyist. E-mail: lwebb@exoro.com. Democrat Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser. A former candidate for Salt Lake City mayor, Pignanelli served 10 years in the Utah House of Representatives, six years as House minority leader. Pignanelli's spouse, D'Arcy Dixon Pignanelli, is executive director of the state Department of Administrative Services in the Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. administration. E-mail: frankp@xmission.com.