Here's some hefty answers to hot political questions

Question: Will the Legislature pass a big tax cut?

Answer: Pignanelli: 2006 is an election year, so there will be a tax cut, and it will be big. Webb: If revenue projections come in even higher during the session (which is quite possible), then we'll see a big tax cut. Otherwise, it will be more modest, in the range the governor is proposing.

Question: Will the sales tax be removed from food?

Answer: Pignanelli:Despite the work by Speaker Greg Curtis and House leadership, unfortunately the Legislature will not remove the regressive tax. Webb: Eventually. But phased in.

Question: Will banks and credit unions get along this year?

Answer: Pignanelli: About as well as the Israelis and Palestinians. Webb: Lawmakers have resolved this issue to their satisfaction, and anyone who tries to fiddle further will be shot.

Question: Will USTAR (a major economic development initiative) be fully funded?

Answer: Pignanelli: There is a direct correlation between what this program will receive and the personal investment of time and political capital made by Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. in its support. Webb: It will do well because it has such solid support in the business community as a means to keep Utah's economy vibrant.

Question: Will transportation get the lion's share of surplus money?

Answer: Pignanelli: Probably a lion's snack, but not the full meal that will be feasted on by a tax cut. Webb: It's transportation vs. a big tax cut. Utah faces an enormous transportation funding deficit, and voters would rather have their roads fixed. It's also a good place to spend surplus money without boosting agency base budgets. Transportation wins.

Question: Will Curt Bramble run for Congress?

Answer: Pignanelli: No, he's having too much fun stirring it up in the Legislature. Webb: Eventually, but the stars aren't quite lined up this cycle.

Question: Will Chris Cannon be re-elected?

Answer: Pignanelli: If history is an indication, he will face a brutal convention battle and eventually succeed in the primary. Webb: It's 50/50. He's the most vulnerable member of the congressional delegation.

Question: Who will run against Jim Matheson?