Reader comments
News analysis: Chaffetz facing uphill battle
63 comments | Read story
I know | 7:22 a.m. May 15, 2008
It's time for change wake up Utah
Pac 10 Alumnus | 7:47 a.m. May 15, 2008
Hard to believe that Chaffetz could be "Facing an Uphill Battle" after
Cannon got on the O'Reilly show and made a complete a-s of himself. Cannon
is completely out of touch with reality. Utah needs and deserves better than his
moronic rantings.
Dave | 8:12 a.m. May 15, 2008
Trading one conservative republican for another isn't exactly what I'd
call change. I'm not in Cannon's district, but if I were, i'd
vote for whoever is the Democrat challenger.
Now that's change.
Now that's change.
Comments continue below
Vote smarter | 8:12 a.m. May 15, 2008
We'd be foolish to give up the seniority that Cannon has attained on key
committees. It is a critical election year and we need Cannon's experience
and clout in Washington. It would devastate us to send a newcomer who has to
spend the next 2-3 years "breaking into the Washington
Club"--especially if a democrat wins the presidency. Chaffetz is
charismatic and he sound bytes well. But I gotta wonder why he didn't last
as chief of staff for Governor Huntsman and more importantly why he didn't
run against Jim Matheson to give us another seat republican seat in Congress.
MEW | 8:13 a.m. May 15, 2008
Cannon is a typical, say what the audience wants to hear, politician. He is not
in it for me nor does he listen to his constituents. It is time for a change!!
Pac 10 Alumnus | 8:20 a.m. May 15, 2008
After Cannons moronic ramblings on O'Reilly I can't believe that
anyone would vote for him.
Observer1 | 8:21 a.m. May 15, 2008
To all 3rd district Republicans,
Please please please wake up and remove Mr. Cannon from office. He needs to go NOW! He has been a mediocre to poor congressman and now it's time to give someone else a chance.
Please please please wake up and remove Mr. Cannon from office. He needs to go NOW! He has been a mediocre to poor congressman and now it's time to give someone else a chance.
No Anger? | 8:42 a.m. May 15, 2008
Cannon must be delusional if he thinks that voters were angry in 2006, but may
not be now. I think the entire country is exhausted from the previous 8 years
of the Bush administration and is ready for a change. Sending back a pompous,
out-of-touch lifer like Cannon would be silly.
I have many friends and relatives in the 3rd district and I can't think of anyone who supports Cannon. Based on his BYU experience and working at Nu Skin for a long time, Chaffetz has more name recognition than the analysts realize. He's also very well spoken and has a contagious enthusiasm.
Contrast this with Cannon's unintelligible mumblings and anger management issues, and it becomes very clear who to vote for.
I have many friends and relatives in the 3rd district and I can't think of anyone who supports Cannon. Based on his BYU experience and working at Nu Skin for a long time, Chaffetz has more name recognition than the analysts realize. He's also very well spoken and has a contagious enthusiasm.
Contrast this with Cannon's unintelligible mumblings and anger management issues, and it becomes very clear who to vote for.
IM | 8:45 a.m. May 15, 2008
It is SOOOO clear to me that Cannon is THE ONLY candidate here to support.
Chaffetz is making like a sixth grade class president's campaign speech -
"Recess all day and NO MORE MATH HOMEWORK!"
Utahpride | 8:54 a.m. May 15, 2008
People just assume that Cannon isn't doing anything because Chaffitz says
so, but Chris has been working hard on internet, gas prices, and immigration
bills. We need to give him more credit. He is the best man for the job.
Don't Count Chaffetz Out | 8:58 a.m. May 15, 2008
We all laughed when Chaffetz presumed to beat David Leavitt and Chris Cannon on
$100,000. Now look who is laughing.
Chaffetz has one advantage Bernick missed - there are a whole slew of votes he won't even have to work for. How many voters already know they won't support Cannon? I live in Salt Lake County and I don't know anyone who supports Cannon.
If past elections are any indication, Cannon will try to discredit his opponents' character rather than candidly approach the issues - just as David Leavitt has been doing. That's what's wrong with politics today. I encourage all voters to reject character assassination as a campaign tool.
I was a delegate and I heard Chaffetz aggressively discuss his opponents - but always on the issues. Never once did he try to impugn their character. That's why he'll win my vote again in June.
Chaffetz has one advantage Bernick missed - there are a whole slew of votes he won't even have to work for. How many voters already know they won't support Cannon? I live in Salt Lake County and I don't know anyone who supports Cannon.
If past elections are any indication, Cannon will try to discredit his opponents' character rather than candidly approach the issues - just as David Leavitt has been doing. That's what's wrong with politics today. I encourage all voters to reject character assassination as a campaign tool.
I was a delegate and I heard Chaffetz aggressively discuss his opponents - but always on the issues. Never once did he try to impugn their character. That's why he'll win my vote again in June.
Courage? | 9:10 a.m. May 15, 2008
Cannon is put into a primary every two years because he actually stands for
something, unlike the rest of Utah's Republican delegation who simply takes
the easy route to retain their power.
From the Right | 9:23 a.m. May 15, 2008
I've frankly been quite disturbed by some of things I've heard from
Mr. Chaffetz. I think Chaffetz is pandering to the extreme right and that will
only make things worse in Washington not better.
VOTE | 9:32 a.m. May 15, 2008
If you vote for Cannon, you lose any right you have to complain about how things
are going in Utah and Washington. If your not going to try to change things and
make them better and instead stick with what isn't working and keep voting
for the same people, you can't complain when you get more of the same.
Trumpeting Elephant | 9:33 a.m. May 15, 2008
I know Jason Chaffetz, and he's a good guy and would be a great
congressman. But I also know Chris Cannon, and despite not being as articulate
as say Barack Obama, he is very respected and very effective in DC. Both Chris
and Jason would be conservative voters, but one has 12 years of seniority and
one would be starting at ground zero. I'm sticking with Cannon.
Niner | 9:34 a.m. May 15, 2008
It is one thing to say that you are going to do something like Chafetz did on
Saturday and another to be able to deliver on whatr is said. Cannon with his
seniority and influence in DC has the capacity to get things done. Look at his
record it speaks for itself.
kairus | 9:41 a.m. May 15, 2008
Jason distorts the truth, lies about everything to make himself look better.
Says the way a person runs their budget is how they will vote. Whatever, Chris
Cannon has continually voted against pork legislation to balance the budget and
has a 96% rating on this issue. We need people like Chris in office that are
trying to balance our budget that is 400 billion over last year, and get our
dollar stronger on the internaitonal market. We need Conservative fiscal policy
in DC, like Chris'. jason doesn't know what Conservative fiscal
policy is, he thinks that a Congressional budget is likened to a personal
banking account. Mr. Schaffetz, You do not belong in DC!!!!!!!!
MacK | 9:45 a.m. May 15, 2008
Frankly I believe that Chaffetz winning is one of the worst things that could
happen. If he were to win Utah would be left with 3 junior level Congressmen, if
you add that to the Democrats maintaining control of both houses of Congress
Utah would have not voice at all in Congress. We would be trading an effective
experienced influential conservative Congressman for a no body. Add to that the
fact that Chaffetz really isn�t anything more than
�I�ll say whatever I have to, to get
elected� politician and how is that really bringing any
change to Washington. I also think that Vote smarter has a very solid point
about why Chaffetz isn�t running against Matheson. If he
really believes all that he is saying he would help the conservative movement
most by running against a liberal Democrat.
Super EMT | 9:47 a.m. May 15, 2008
I have never supported Chris Cannon. However, there is a first time for
everything. I would vote for nearly anyone over Jason Chaffetz. While all
politicans have an ego, Jason's is over-the-top.
Further, I wonder, if he is such a great conservative and an ace for Utah, why isn't he running against Rep. Jim Matheson, who serves the second district? Jason Chaffetz lives in the second district and if he is truly concerned about "conservative principles" as he says, wouldn't he want to oust Utah's lone Democrat?
Finally, I find it interesting that after talking to more than a dozen individuals who worked with Jason in the Huntsman Administration, not one had a nice thing to say. All encouraged me to vote for Rep Cannon in the upcoming primary.
I have done my homework and Jason Chaffetz is not the answer.
Further, I wonder, if he is such a great conservative and an ace for Utah, why isn't he running against Rep. Jim Matheson, who serves the second district? Jason Chaffetz lives in the second district and if he is truly concerned about "conservative principles" as he says, wouldn't he want to oust Utah's lone Democrat?
Finally, I find it interesting that after talking to more than a dozen individuals who worked with Jason in the Huntsman Administration, not one had a nice thing to say. All encouraged me to vote for Rep Cannon in the upcoming primary.
I have done my homework and Jason Chaffetz is not the answer.
Re: MEW | 9:49 a.m. May 15, 2008
"Cannon is a typical, say what the audience wants to hear,
politician..." I couldn't disagree more! In fact I'd say Chris
is just the opposite. I think your comment describes Chaffetz much better.
Especially if you've ever listened to him speak. He is willing to say and
do whatever it takes to win. And that is scary. I think he sold his soul at
the convention to try to win there. I don't think he's honest and I
don't think he honestly believes half of what he says. Be very careful
with this guy.
Look at the record | 9:52 a.m. May 15, 2008
When you get past the campaign rhetoric and look at the record you find that
Congressman Cannon is one of the most effective and productive congressmen in
Washington. He doesn't make any grandiose promises because he intends to
and does deliver on the promises he makes. It may not make for a stump speech to
write home about, but I prefer someone who is getting the job done to someone
making promises they can't possibly keep.
EWL | 10:01 a.m. May 15, 2008
From what I can see Cannon's record speaks for itself. He may not be the
smoothest speaker or as young as Chaffetz but has clout in Washington. I'm
not voting for a candidate based on charisma or physical appeal. Who is Chaffetz
anyway and what has he done to show that he is capable of getting things done in
a democratic congress?
William from Provo | 10:02 a.m. May 15, 2008
I would agree with IM - Chaffetz seems to throw red meat out to the voters on
all the issues that he wants to change but will not be able to due to the makeup
of the rest of Congress. If he were voted king for a day he could make these
changes but he seems to believe if he gets elected that he can go back and wave
his magic wand - fact is that changes in Washington come from those who hang
around long enough to get the key leadership spots. Cannon has been there for
12 years and he is just getting into position to get the key positions. Elect
Chaffetz and it will be another 15 years before Utah has much umph! in Congress.
Chaffetz will go back , poke John Boehner in the eye and get lost somewhere in
the back of the line for about a decade. That does not appear to me to be an
efficient way to cast my vote. Do I agree with Cannon all the time? No way, but
I think I know how the system works. C'mon people - wake up and smell the
Postum.
sheryl | 10:12 a.m. May 15, 2008
Change: From thinking "incumbent" is bad! Time to take a look at what
Cannon the REAL CHANGE congressman has done! Voted 4 border fence; fought for 2
border agents persecuted for doing their job; vote 4 the REAL ID act; voted 4
bill to make employers accountable if they hire illegals; against partial
abortion; 4 gun owner rights; CHANGING trash trust lands to oil and mineral rich
ones we can harvest: NOW working to CHANGE stupid fed permit laws holding up
production of oil shale in UTAH X Utah Company (Redleaf). ready to produce on
those lands but fed permits are holding it up. Change? I agree: Change from
following the US bandwagon of "change". Recognize a great thing when
you have one instead of whining and jumping on the
we-gotta-have-a-(Republican)-Obama candidate bandwagon, All smooth-talker
Chaffetz claimed Cannon did or didn�t do I checked.
He�s wrong. No nefarious earmarks. No weird Immigration
votes. Read the bills. I did. Pork-spender? Hardly�one of
best at stopping taxes & spending! Cannon 2nd highest performing
Congressman in Utah History�check out Library of Congress
yourself, Utah. Change? Yeah, let�s stop changing with the
wind!
Anonymous | 10:14 a.m. May 15, 2008
Our economy's in the tank, gas prices are soaring, and our corrupt Congress
is still spending like a drunken sailor - 535 drunken sailors.
So what do people say? 'Re-elect the crooks because they all have seniority.'
Brilliant. Voters weren't fed-up 2 years ago in the way they are now, and I have a hunch Mr. Chafftz won't be claiming that Satan is working against him.
Send Chaffetz a little money. Volunteer for his campaign. Or be cheap and lazy and watch your freedoms just get frittered away.
So what do people say? 'Re-elect the crooks because they all have seniority.'
Brilliant. Voters weren't fed-up 2 years ago in the way they are now, and I have a hunch Mr. Chafftz won't be claiming that Satan is working against him.
Send Chaffetz a little money. Volunteer for his campaign. Or be cheap and lazy and watch your freedoms just get frittered away.
MacK | 10:31 a.m. May 15, 2008
MEW please understand that is exactly what I meant, if you are responding to me.
It�s Chaffetz that is just a "say anything to get
elected" politician. Further I seriously question his honesty. My wife and
I have both been delegates, back in November we got a call from Jason. He told
us that he was running against Cannon. When asked why and he proceeded to tell
us how ineffective Cannon was, he also implied that Cannon was lazy and as
evidence asserted missed meetings and votes to this effect. After doing my
homework I found that Jason was not representing the truth in his statements
that his accusations at best were gross exaggerations. How can Jason bring
change to Washington if he is playing all the stupid games that have made D.C.
what it is today?
Further Chris is making progress on issues like immigration, security, and energy. If you look at what he�s been able to accomplish in getting us to the point where extract oil from Utah�s abundant oil shale it apparent that he is doing great things for Utah and the country as a whole.
Further Chris is making progress on issues like immigration, security, and energy. If you look at what he�s been able to accomplish in getting us to the point where extract oil from Utah�s abundant oil shale it apparent that he is doing great things for Utah and the country as a whole.
Anonymous | 10:33 a.m. May 15, 2008
Ditto to what Super EMT said. I think I'd vote for almost anyone before
ever voting for Chaffetz. Although I acknowledge that this bias of mine largely
came about through a neighbor of mine who is a former state employee and has
shared his distaste for him with me.
Jobs on the Line | 10:37 a.m. May 15, 2008
Man, it must be a slow day at the Cannon offices. Everyone's got time to
post! IM - get back to work! We realize you're all worried about losing
your jobs - and you should be - but our tax dollars pay you to run a
congressional office, not write reviews of the convention speeches.
MR | 10:40 a.m. May 15, 2008
Chris is a work horse, not a show horse. He understands the workings of Congress
and brings expertise and experience to the debate. This is not a time for
oratory; rather, it is a time for responsible public policy. To stick with the
"horse" analogy, this is not the time to change horses in the middle
of the stream.
State Delegate | 11:30 a.m. May 15, 2008
I was at the convention and I thought that Chaffetz simply pandered to the ultra
conservative delegation there. Chris Cannon might not be the most eloquent, but
he's effective and he uses common sense.
I won't vote for Chaffetz for two reasons:
1. There is no reason to believe Chaffetz can do what he says. He lacks seniority and credibility. He will be facing a democratic congress and possibly a democratic president without the experience it will take to make change.
2. Even if he somehow managed to be effective, I don't want to see the changes that he proposes. He is unrealistic about immigration and refuses to provide a real solution. He makes the Sutherland Institute look like a bastion of liberalism.
I think it should make everyone in the 3rd district a little bit nervous that Cannon is viewed as too liberal to represent us and yet he is ranked as one of the most conservative members of Congress.
I won't vote for Chaffetz for two reasons:
1. There is no reason to believe Chaffetz can do what he says. He lacks seniority and credibility. He will be facing a democratic congress and possibly a democratic president without the experience it will take to make change.
2. Even if he somehow managed to be effective, I don't want to see the changes that he proposes. He is unrealistic about immigration and refuses to provide a real solution. He makes the Sutherland Institute look like a bastion of liberalism.
I think it should make everyone in the 3rd district a little bit nervous that Cannon is viewed as too liberal to represent us and yet he is ranked as one of the most conservative members of Congress.
Insanity | 11:37 a.m. May 15, 2008
To keep doing what you've been doing & expecting a different result,
that is insanity!
To keep Voting for who you've been Voting for & expecting a different result, that is stupidity!
I will vote for the person who promises me the least government interference in my life & then holds to that promise!
To keep Voting for who you've been Voting for & expecting a different result, that is stupidity!
I will vote for the person who promises me the least government interference in my life & then holds to that promise!
Lee | 11:48 a.m. May 15, 2008
Cannon, Effective? Name one bill that bears his name that has passed Congress.
The only bills I can remember him being a primary sponsor of are the AgJbos
amnesty for illegal farm workers, and he co-sponsored the Dream act with Orrin
Hatch a few years back. Neither bill passed.
He does have the distinction of being one of two Congressmen to vote against the do not call list. I guess Utahns can mark that up as a victory somehow.
He does have the distinction of being one of two Congressmen to vote against the do not call list. I guess Utahns can mark that up as a victory somehow.
After 12 years | 12:20 p.m. May 15, 2008
All of these pro-Cannon posts talk about the fact that he is starting to take a
stand on this issue or is now trying to pass this bill. I was a state delegate
and listened to Cannon talk for an hour about current legislation for oil shale
and enery reform. Where was he 12 years ago on this issue? Or even 3 or 4
years ago when the republicans had the majority in congress. I'm sorry,
for me, it seems like it is too little too late for Chris Cannon.
BBKing | 12:24 p.m. May 15, 2008
I am glad to read so many of the comments on this subject. It shows that there
are many informed voters.
I really like the note about 'throwing red meat to the right-wing.' Oh is this true! If Jason keeps up his rhetoric in the primary he will be toast. The rank and file Republican is not into the rabid anti-illegal immigrant as the convention is. Polls show that 80%+ are opposed to illegal immigration yet when you ask questions like should they all be deported the percentages go WAY down. Fact is, the average American is opposed to illegal immigration, they just don't support the extreme measures floated in convention circles, that Jason played off of.
If Jason settles down in the primary he will run into the exact same problems as Jacob. Jacob started out not touching immigration, shifted into hard corp then ended up with a more thoughtful approach, which his supporters walked away from as amnesty.
If Jason keeps up the 'rabid red meat' he loses with broad Republican voters. He shifts to a more moderate approach he shows his true colors as a flip-flopper. In either case...
Also, his he no track record but talk.
I really like the note about 'throwing red meat to the right-wing.' Oh is this true! If Jason keeps up his rhetoric in the primary he will be toast. The rank and file Republican is not into the rabid anti-illegal immigrant as the convention is. Polls show that 80%+ are opposed to illegal immigration yet when you ask questions like should they all be deported the percentages go WAY down. Fact is, the average American is opposed to illegal immigration, they just don't support the extreme measures floated in convention circles, that Jason played off of.
If Jason settles down in the primary he will run into the exact same problems as Jacob. Jacob started out not touching immigration, shifted into hard corp then ended up with a more thoughtful approach, which his supporters walked away from as amnesty.
If Jason keeps up the 'rabid red meat' he loses with broad Republican voters. He shifts to a more moderate approach he shows his true colors as a flip-flopper. In either case...
Also, his he no track record but talk.
I don't know | 12:40 p.m. May 15, 2008
I don't know who I will vote for come June, but I can say this: I worked
to get Cannon elected the first time. Why? Because he actually came to my town
and talked to us to find out our feelings on what was happening.
Guess What? I haven't seen him since. I sure would like to know that he still cared about my hometown and how the crap in Washington is affecting us.
I will have to do a lot of studying on who is running before I cast my vote.
Guess What? I haven't seen him since. I sure would like to know that he still cared about my hometown and how the crap in Washington is affecting us.
I will have to do a lot of studying on who is running before I cast my vote.
Experience means nothing | 12:45 p.m. May 15, 2008
Experience in Congress is way overrated and means nothing to me. In fact, the
longer politicians spend in Washington D.C. the less in touch they are with
their constituents. George Washington voluntary stepped down after eight years.
Why can't Cannon and others do the same? Isn't eight years long
enough?
The name is House of Representatives for a reason. Cannon stopped representing us a long time ago. Let's get him back in Utah where he can find a real job again.
The name is House of Representatives for a reason. Cannon stopped representing us a long time ago. Let's get him back in Utah where he can find a real job again.
TAllenby | 12:48 p.m. May 15, 2008
So...Congress is spending money like it grows on trees, has done nothing to
combat illegal immigration, has lower approval ratings than the president,
spends all their time holding worthless hearings to find out if there are
steroids in baseball, arguing back and forth about meaningless bills meant to
censure this or that, and some of you still want the same people re-elected
because of their seniority? GET REAL!!!
Chris Cannon doesn't even know that he is a big part of the problem. He blames the Democrats for everything, but the reason the Democrats are in charge is because the Republicans were totally ineffective. What a joke the people in this state are becoming. I guess I'm going to have to go against my principles and register as a Republican for one day just to cast a vote AGAINST Cannon.
Chris Cannon doesn't even know that he is a big part of the problem. He blames the Democrats for everything, but the reason the Democrats are in charge is because the Republicans were totally ineffective. What a joke the people in this state are becoming. I guess I'm going to have to go against my principles and register as a Republican for one day just to cast a vote AGAINST Cannon.
arc | 12:53 p.m. May 15, 2008
Look at the votes at convention
Round 1:
SF 4
JF 49
DL 220
JC 469
CC 338
Round 2
DL 161 (lost 59 votes)
JC 529 (gained 60 votes)
CC 356 (gained 18)
34 left
Round 3
JC 563 or 59% gained 34 votes
CC 391 gained 35 votes
92 left
If JC had 10 more votes, Chris Cannon could find another job. Even after the illegal move Cannon and Leavitt did for the 3rd round, Cannon only picked up one vote more than Jason did from Leavitt's group.
The 1080 delegates that showed up represented hundreds of neighborhoods, not just 1000 people.
Jason won by having better ideas. We could use that in DC. Time to kick Cannon out!
Round 1:
SF 4
JF 49
DL 220
JC 469
CC 338
Round 2
DL 161 (lost 59 votes)
JC 529 (gained 60 votes)
CC 356 (gained 18)
34 left
Round 3
JC 563 or 59% gained 34 votes
CC 391 gained 35 votes
92 left
If JC had 10 more votes, Chris Cannon could find another job. Even after the illegal move Cannon and Leavitt did for the 3rd round, Cannon only picked up one vote more than Jason did from Leavitt's group.
The 1080 delegates that showed up represented hundreds of neighborhoods, not just 1000 people.
Jason won by having better ideas. We could use that in DC. Time to kick Cannon out!
arc | 12:58 p.m. May 15, 2008
re: State Delegate | 11:30 a.m. May 15, 2008
Jason was the only one of the 3 that has real ideas of how to solve immigration. Start with Legal Immigration rules. His 6 or 7 steps actually work.
He needs to recognize that we do have a change in the weather - globally. Harrison Ford points out that more problems are from burning crops that all the cars in the world.
Jason was the only one of the 3 that has real ideas of how to solve immigration. Start with Legal Immigration rules. His 6 or 7 steps actually work.
He needs to recognize that we do have a change in the weather - globally. Harrison Ford points out that more problems are from burning crops that all the cars in the world.
State delegate | 1:00 p.m. May 15, 2008
I was very unimpressed with Jason's negative campaigning leading up to the
convention. He criticized just about everything and everyone, even down to
photos on campaign fliers. He touted his relationship with Huntsman (though
merging Jr. and Sr. into one person) then later slams him. Football experience
is not pertinent to Congress though he used it often. He originally slammed
Cannon on congressional attendance until the Cannon camp released charts showing
that times he missed corresponded with major family issues such as death and
birth. His campaign was full of blunders and miss steps. I wanted to be
impressed and like him. I had worked a bit with him on Huntsman's run for
governor. But the more I listened the more I did not think he was up to the
job. He lacks the wisdom and decorum of a Congressman. If you look at his
stance on issues they mostly correspond with Cannon's. Most, if not all,
of his attacks on Cannon are unfounded when you get the whole story.
I think most of Chaffetz's supporters are merely anti-Cannon. Look at who you vote for, not who you vote against.
I think most of Chaffetz's supporters are merely anti-Cannon. Look at who you vote for, not who you vote against.
MacK | 1:13 p.m. May 15, 2008
I guess that depends on how you define Effective Lee. Your definition of
effectiveness is so narrow that there really wouldn�t be
any successful Representatives or Senators.
So I think it is only reasonable to expand that definition. I think you need to look not only at the number of bills with someone�s name on them but also what they have been able to accomplish and what their peers think of them. Chris is a go-to guy in the House for Republicans. He has sponsored and co-sponsored a lot of legislation. He has brokered a deal which turned a lot of shale rich land from being a National Monument to being owned by the Ute Indians which are supporting the continuing effort to develop effective shale to oil extraction. This can free us from foreign oil, its influences, and potentially save us from a major economic disaster. You can also look at what he�s been doing on getting control of our illegal immigration. You can also look to the fact that Chris fought to get us legislation which keeps us safe from paying insane taxes for internet usage. To me all that adds up to effectiveness.
So I think it is only reasonable to expand that definition. I think you need to look not only at the number of bills with someone�s name on them but also what they have been able to accomplish and what their peers think of them. Chris is a go-to guy in the House for Republicans. He has sponsored and co-sponsored a lot of legislation. He has brokered a deal which turned a lot of shale rich land from being a National Monument to being owned by the Ute Indians which are supporting the continuing effort to develop effective shale to oil extraction. This can free us from foreign oil, its influences, and potentially save us from a major economic disaster. You can also look at what he�s been doing on getting control of our illegal immigration. You can also look to the fact that Chris fought to get us legislation which keeps us safe from paying insane taxes for internet usage. To me all that adds up to effectiveness.
James | 1:15 p.m. May 15, 2008
The problem with the average politician is they talk in terms of saving the
world. This confuses the voters into thinking that by voting for one particular
person they can make a sweeping change.
So take the issue of the oil shale in Utah. That is an enormous potential for energy though it is tied up by many factors. That aside, take an issue where one very powerful person has tried to open up dometic energy. That would be President Bush and the ANWR fields up in Alaska.
Not even the President can do that by himself. With that absolute truth, that not even the President of the United States can open up an energy source by himself, you are now faulting Cannon for not opening up oil shale in eastern Utah? Seriously?
It simply demonstrates that you do not understand how a democratically elected representative form of government works. Heck, Jim Hansen was chair of the Natural Resources Committee in the House and could only make a few improvements.
If you seriously think Jason Chaffetz can get it done by himself you are dilusional at best. Dishonest at worst. In any case, let's not confuse truth with fiction.
So take the issue of the oil shale in Utah. That is an enormous potential for energy though it is tied up by many factors. That aside, take an issue where one very powerful person has tried to open up dometic energy. That would be President Bush and the ANWR fields up in Alaska.
Not even the President can do that by himself. With that absolute truth, that not even the President of the United States can open up an energy source by himself, you are now faulting Cannon for not opening up oil shale in eastern Utah? Seriously?
It simply demonstrates that you do not understand how a democratically elected representative form of government works. Heck, Jim Hansen was chair of the Natural Resources Committee in the House and could only make a few improvements.
If you seriously think Jason Chaffetz can get it done by himself you are dilusional at best. Dishonest at worst. In any case, let's not confuse truth with fiction.
Hypocrisy | 1:23 p.m. May 15, 2008
�Even after the illegal move Cannon and Leavitt did for the
3rd round� If that was illegal then Chaffetz broke the same
rule since he was down on the floor doing he exact same thing for the entire
second ballot. I should know I was sitting 40 feet from him when he was doing
it.
Also saying that he has better ideas than Cannon is a farce, that�s like saying French Vanilla Ice Cream is FAR superior to Vanilla ice Cream. Their positions on the issues are nearly identical. Just like Obama, Chaffetz is just another politician.
Also saying that he has better ideas than Cannon is a farce, that�s like saying French Vanilla Ice Cream is FAR superior to Vanilla ice Cream. Their positions on the issues are nearly identical. Just like Obama, Chaffetz is just another politician.
1_2_talk | 1:33 p.m. May 15, 2008
Boy there is some irony on this board in that everyone thinks Chaffetz would be
just fine if he ran against Matheson but he's just awful against Cannon.
Hopefully Republicans will get get behind both Bill Dew and Jason Chaffetz so
that both Matheson and Cannon can go do something else.
Two current pieces of legislation, both sponsored by Cannon, show that Cannon is not about limiting Gov't, but trying to please the populace. H.R. 5546 - Credit Card Fair Fee Act, government seeks to regulate the negotiated fees between retailers and credit card providers using threat of anti-trust claims. H.R. 5846 - Wireless Internet Nationwide Act, Government seeks to license a national netwrok provider to provide a free access national wireless network.
In my opinion, these bills expand the role of the Federal Gov't. and make it more intrusive into our lives. Yet these acts will make people feel good that their Gov't is doing things for them. Cannon's comment about the price of gas being "criminal" also shows he wants gov't intervention. Since when is it the gov't's job to provide cheap anything?
Two current pieces of legislation, both sponsored by Cannon, show that Cannon is not about limiting Gov't, but trying to please the populace. H.R. 5546 - Credit Card Fair Fee Act, government seeks to regulate the negotiated fees between retailers and credit card providers using threat of anti-trust claims. H.R. 5846 - Wireless Internet Nationwide Act, Government seeks to license a national netwrok provider to provide a free access national wireless network.
In my opinion, these bills expand the role of the Federal Gov't. and make it more intrusive into our lives. Yet these acts will make people feel good that their Gov't is doing things for them. Cannon's comment about the price of gas being "criminal" also shows he wants gov't intervention. Since when is it the gov't's job to provide cheap anything?
Brian C | 1:38 p.m. May 15, 2008
I know Chris Cannon's record in Congress. He may not be the most
charismatic person, but he is an experienced legislator and has integrity. He
listens to the people. Experience does matter. Why change a good thing? If
you want change maybe the naysayers should vote for Obama, good luck.
The value of experience | 1:44 p.m. May 15, 2008
Could someone please tell me what the value is of Cannon's 12 years? More
insight into "precocious" male teenage interns?
What are the tangible benefits that Utah receives for his seniority? I don't remember any bills he passed or influence he was able to use or pressure he was able to apply in a Democrat-run house or representatives just because he isn't brand new. So my question is, what does Cannon bring home for Utahns that Chaffetz just couldn't because he's new?
People who talk about Cannon's qualifications say "he voted for" this and that, but couldn't Chaffetz do the same (with the exception of not supporting amnesty)? Where does 12 years of experience get us? Especially in a congress the Republicans don't control and probably won't control for some time?
For 12 years I have watched Chris Cannon show up in the national news periodically and it's never been for anything that reflects well on Utah but is always a case where he let his mouth run on overdrive when he should've kept quiet.
What are the tangible benefits that Utah receives for his seniority? I don't remember any bills he passed or influence he was able to use or pressure he was able to apply in a Democrat-run house or representatives just because he isn't brand new. So my question is, what does Cannon bring home for Utahns that Chaffetz just couldn't because he's new?
People who talk about Cannon's qualifications say "he voted for" this and that, but couldn't Chaffetz do the same (with the exception of not supporting amnesty)? Where does 12 years of experience get us? Especially in a congress the Republicans don't control and probably won't control for some time?
For 12 years I have watched Chris Cannon show up in the national news periodically and it's never been for anything that reflects well on Utah but is always a case where he let his mouth run on overdrive when he should've kept quiet.
Chris P | 1:59 p.m. May 15, 2008
If Chaffetz got to DC he would have nothing to contribute. He has no ideas and
no practical solutions. No one will listen to him let alone respect him enough
to follow any possible future idea. The man's arrogant and just wants the
title. He has a look at me, praise me type demeaner and I was absolutely
disgusted at how many delegates believed his speech. Do your homework BEFORE you
vote and don't let all the emotion of a few minutes govern your decision. I
definitely don't agree with all of what Cannon does, but he's a whole
heck of a lot better choice than Chaffetz.
nebraskan for cannon | 2:16 p.m. May 15, 2008
Get a clue people. Until the rest of the nation votes out there incumbents
nothing will change and Utahns voting out Cannon will only hurt Utah. Maybe its
time for congressional term limits. This would solve the seniority problems and
change could actually take place. People keep saying it's time for Cannon
to come back to Utah and look for a real job, so what's Chaffetz excuse? Is
he tired of having a real job? Is he now looking for a vacation? And being born
and raised as a Cougar fan, I don't recognize his name at all. I guess
everyone needs a backup.
Anonymous | 2:27 p.m. May 15, 2008
All you anti Cannon played it so wrong at the convention if you wanted Cannon
out your only hope was to vote for David Leavitt who actually had a shot of
beating him in a primary not to mention was the better candidate by far!
Chaffetz is the biggest unrealistic glory hog mudslinger this district has seen
which probably is due to the fact he doesn't live in the 3rd district, and
only choose to run because he thought enough people we were unhappy with cannon
that he had a chance not because he actually believes he can help America or
Utah. When the delegates of the 3rd district find out all the stuff I know will
come out about Jason I hope you realize how easily you were duped by a good
speech and next time maybe do your homework a little better before casting your
ballot. The only good news out of this is that he doesn't have a chance in
beating Chris in a primary
Henry Drummond | 2:49 p.m. May 15, 2008
I have been a Republican State delegate and the impression I get is that third
district delegates will never be able to find someone who is
"conservative" enough for them. If Jason were to get elected they
would be skewering him two years from now.
Add your comment
Comments are monitored. Any comments found to be abusive, offensive, off-topic, misrepresentative, more than 200 words or containing URLs will not be posted.
Words Remaining
E-mail address: For internal use only. We may want to contact you to publish your comment (not your e-mail address) in the newspaper or for a separate story idea.
Related content
- 3A: Hurricane 24, Park City 19 2:29 a.m.
- GameDay back in the MWC 2:19 a.m.
- Westminster campus briefs 1:49 a.m.
- SUU campus briefs 1:48 a.m.
- Dixie campus briefs 1:47 a.m.
- Real Salt Lake gameday 1:33 a.m.
- 5A: Bingham rolls to title game 12:59 a.m.
- Aggies hope for Spartan cure 12:57 a.m.
- 5A: Miners pull tricks to win 12:56 a.m.
- 5A: Davis runs over Hunter 12:54 a.m.
- Williams leaves, won't play tonight
- Unga family is making its mark
- Selfishness to blame for Jazz woes?
- Trial begins in toddler death
- ESPN suddenly loves MWC
- Study: Divorce likely when wife ill
- Man killed during 3rd I-15 crash
- Two killed in Iron County crash
- Historically, Utes have owned TCU
- Tough year for Lobos and coach
- SLC council OKs gay rights policies
348 - Editorial: Mormons and gay rights199
- Senators want food tax restored162
- Will state consider gay rights law?145
- Letters: Strange breed in Utah129
- Utes remain silent about BCS120
- S.L. vote pending on gay protections113
- Celtics crush Jazz103
- Pratt pleads not guilty to sex charges102
- Hatch empathizes with Muslims88
If you are looking for a bird on the cheap, the following specials from...
How do you handle kids and contests? Our oldest daughter, 7, is of the...
Advertisement
Latest comments
True. It's not terribly funny and if it has any effect on society, it won't...
What else would you expect to find in a book called "The Founders on Religion"?
Ok not to be rude here, but check the stats, Hinds isnt first in yards and...
t-hinds = best player in utah
Anonymous: Was that English? I though conservatives believed if you are in...
Wow! Glad the Lord kept you safe. Separate comment: That was a horrible...
I have never been to a Utah high school game before as I am not from the...
It would behoove the above commenters to recall that religion, including our...
Only 8000 attendance? BYU had 16,000+ tonight. What is wrong with Ute fans?...
ian you are the 3A MVP If you win next week so just do it that would be nice....
Advertisements