Little fallout likely from funding bruhaha

Did Huntsman follow political protocol/tradition in setting the special session agenda?

Pignanelli: Constitutionally, the governor has sole authority to control special session terms and conditions. Tradition and common sense, however, dictate that the governor consult with legislative leadership in determining the agenda, thus avoiding political train wrecks. Special sessions are not built for slow, deliberative discussion and consensus-building. Usually, only items with widespread support are selected, or those for which approval can be quickly obtained.

Webb: Lawmakers say they were surprised to see Medicaid funding on the agenda because they felt the issue was fully aired in the last session and other funding needs had higher priority. The GOP legislative consensus against the funding was so strong that the issue wasn't just DOA; it was never alive.

If the matter had little chance, why did the governor place it on the agenda?

Pignanelli: This is where the rumors are really intoxicating. Initially, discussions circulated the governor misread legislative tea leaves and hoped lawmakers would need little persuasion. Other politicos conjecture that Huntsman was moved on the issue by his close adviser and friend, Pamela Atkinson. Atkinson, a longtime advocate for the poor and disenfranchised, is one of the true "untouchables" of Utah politics. Her well-deserved reputation is so golden that this humanitarian request may have outweighed any legislative opposition.

Webb: I believe the governor felt a true need existed and he wanted to deal with it immediately. He felt it was a relatively simple and straightforward matter, and not a lot of money to be spending in light of large surpluses.

Did the governor waste political capital on the issue?

Webb: He has plenty of capital to spend. While this is a bump in the road in legislative/executive relations, the two sides need each other. In politics, today's opponent becomes tomorrow's ally. There may be more repercussions and the relationship may never be cozy, but they will find ways to work together.