Was Brigham Young Demo or GOP? Oh, probably

Pioneer Day is a terrific holiday, providing all Utahns the opportunity to celebrate old pioneering and new pioneering in our state. Trouble is, we couldn't think of a good Pioneer Day angle for a political column so we're falling back on the shameless gimmick of answering questions that enquiring minds want to know.

Will Rep. Steve Urquhart file for re-election to the Legislature if his campaign against Sen. Orrin Hatch stumbles before the end of the year?

Pignanelli: Republicans will not contribute to Urquhart unless he is totally committed. The St. George politicos who are interested in filling his legislative seat will not tolerate backsliding. Urquhart's political reputation is dependent upon a perception that his challenge to Hatch, if not successful, is at least credible. He has to stay to the end.

Webb: This is an incredibly difficult race for Urquhart, but I think he'll feel enough support to stay in through the filing deadline and convention. Win or lose, he'll be out of the Legislature.

How much will Hatch benefit from the nomination process of John Roberts to the U.S. Supreme Court?

Pignanelli: With Urquhart nipping at his heels, Hatch will utilize every opportunity to bolster support among right-wing special-interest groups. For the next several months, Americans will experience the senator soldiering in behalf of the president and conservative faithful on every network and cable program that will have him (perhaps even the Food Channel).

Webb: Hatch will get a boost as the point person fighting the nomination battle. But it's a long campaign season ahead and he needs to win some fights for Utah, such as keeping high-level nuclear waste out.

Was Brigham Young a Democrat or Republican?

Pignanelli: He was a dynamic individual who possessed extraordinary charisma to lead battered refugees into the American desert in pursuit of a home. Young created a society that ensured the care and feeding of all its members. His urban planning mandated efficient street patterns, parks and open spaces. Through his establishment of the University of Deseret (predecessor to the "U."), he was the first Ute fan. Sounds like a Democrat to me.

Webb: He railed against the federal intrusions, preached thrift, independence and high moral standards, and supported prayer in schools. A Republican all the way.

Will Utah-educated Karl Rove's backside feel the toe of President Bush's cowboy boot anytime soon?