How will the state's political redistricting shake out?

Utah lawmakers are putting the final touches on new election district maps in advance of an Oct. 3 special redistricting session. Redistricting is always controversial with plenty of political intrigue to discuss.

Have state legislators conducted the redistricting process fairly and with adequate public input?

Pignanelli: "Can a democratic assembly who annually revolve in the mass of the people be supposed steadily to pursue the public good?" — Alexander Hamilton. This is the classic situation of "Darned if you do, darned if you don't." (Of course, outside of this column I utilize much more colorful language in utilizing this expression.) Had the Legislature not conducted such an extensive hearing process and schedule, the result would have been a legitimate hue and cry from the media, public interest groups and a good chunk of the population. Yet, once the special session concludes, there will be a similar uproar that the Legislature ignored the hearings, voted contrary to public sentiment, and that the process was flawed. (Admittedly jaded, I question the efficacy of any public hearing.) The Legislature correctly erred on the side of at least allowing people to vent their frustrations in a public matter.

This begs the question of potential fallout from whatever happens in early October. In response, I will remind readers of reality, now and in our post special session column. For months after the boundaries are finalized, emotions will be aroused and foster a fair amount of grumbling from Republicans, Democrats and independents. Even some Republicans will posture about leaving their party or demand significant changes to the entire process. Some pundits will predict a backlash against Republican lawmakers in the next election.

But the general election is more than a year away. That is approximately two political lifetimes. The emotions that will percolate over redistricting in October 2011 will not be around in November 2012. Candidates and campaign managers are advised to look for more fertile issues.

Webb: This redistricting process has been the most open and participatory in Utah history. Interested citizens have been able to immerse themselves in the process, suggest maps and enjoy ready access to lawmakers. Legislators have held hearings all over the state, have taken public input seriously, and have adopted many citizen suggestions, even some from critics. The process has been transparent, and Redistricting Committee members have done their homework and have been diligent in executing their responsibilities. I've been watching the redistricting process in a number of other states and, by comparison, Utah's process has been far less rancorous, partisan and nasty.