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Bennett at center of storm as GOP fights for its future

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It's time. . . | 11:03 p.m. Nov. 14, 2009

. . . to say goodbye to Senator Bennett -- and ALL incumbents from both sides of the aisle. Bennett IS the problem, and the rest of the Washington establishment. He'll be 77 years old on election day, and if elected he would be 83 years old at the end of his next term! Age alone should disqualify him. If he insists on running again, only the voters can turn him away at the voting booth.

Atlas | 11:08 p.m. Nov. 14, 2009

Cut taxes, slash government, give us back our money and our freedom. Get rid of liberal lies, politicians and thugs & thieves -- whether they call themselves republican or democrat. Judge by actions not words. Less government is a better government.

Anonymous | 11:09 p.m. Nov. 14, 2009

Think this through. Hatch says we need to keep Bennett. That way, he'll be on the banking committee after re-election. Bennett is not only one of the most liberal Republicans in the Senate, he is one of the worst offenders (including Democrats!) when it comes to earmark spending. Do you really want a man who uses the taxpayer as his pork project piggybank to sit on the banking committee? Do your country a favor and vote the man out. He's had his fingers in our pocketbooks long enough, and has already broken his campaign promise to stay for 2 terms.

In case you still haven't made up your mind, Bennett voted FOR Cass Sunstein. Why? His SLC office said it was because Sunstein's radical progressive views wouldn't affect his performance in the regulatory position he was nominated for. Speaks volumes, doesn't it?

No man is good enough to govern another man without his consent, and I do not want to give my consent to Bennett again.

Comments continue below

slwatch | 11:15 p.m. Nov. 14, 2009

no scandals... just boring... and ineffective

zbob | 11:44 p.m. Nov. 14, 2009

Bye-bye Bennett. It's time to see you go.
It would be nice to see someone with a plan go to Washington. Not someone that talks about change in nebulous terms and then springs one of the greatest spending travesties on to the American public in the history of the United States.
Get rid of ALL incumbents! Time to get back to the Constitutional roots that made this the greatest country ever.

all knowing | 11:47 p.m. Nov. 14, 2009

You can be a do-nothing politician for just so long before the people throw you out. And it looks like the time has come for both Hatch and Bennett to give their seats up to someone who will listen to and work for the people rather than sit in their plush government offices issuing platitudes and unkept promises.

DD | 12:16 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

This is hardly surprising. Bennett has a remarkable arrogance which is also expressed by his local office staff. I remember visiting his Utah County office right before the Bush-backed illegal alien amnesty vote with several delegates. His staff members were unwilling to listen at all, and asked our group to leave. Bennett then joined the Democrats in voting for amnesty.

His support for the various bailouts, coupled with his position in favor of amnesty for illegal aliens, is counter to what most Utah conservatives want, which is why he's seen as a Rino, just like McCain, Graham, Snowe and other non-conservative GOP members. Obviously, he's scared after watching Cannon go down last year, and is attempting to change his stripes, for at the next year or so, hopefully the delegates and/or voters won't fall for it.

No More INCUMBENTS | 12:48 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

I've got to agree with some of the comments already made. Both parties are broken and the American People must let congress know that the status quo is unacceptable. Status quo is destroying the America we all grew up with. I will not vote for any incumbent until Washington gets the message that it doesn't work this way anymore.

cgman | 12:54 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Yes, hardly surprising given the extremism of Utah poltics. About 80% of comments here will be Glenn Beck parrots. I grew up in Utah and continue to be surprised and puzzled at the smugness and celebration of ignorance that characterizes the brand of Utah conservatism. I don't know where I belong at this point, but this version of Utah GOP isn't appealing.

Vote him out! | 1:05 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

We have no use for spend-happy elitists in the legislature. Bennett has gone far out of his way to work with liberals on all kinds of ridiculous legislation and that, not his age, is reason enough to vote him out. He should spend his time opposing liberal bills and finding ways to reduce taxes and spending. Adios senator.

cmame | 1:06 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Arrogance is what Washington produces most! Bennett came with arrogance, under the cover of being Republican. If you want a conservative, Utah needs to define the word before sending more liberals that vote with Democrat's. I have tried for years to contact Bennett and never had a response of any kind.

Anonymous | 2:03 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Cool, the repubs will turn on themselves. I won't bother you all as a liberal I will leave it to you.

Tab L. Uno | 2:06 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

As the Republican Party moves right the rest of the Country is likely to see a growth in the left of center population as Hispanic and African American populations continue to expand and economic issues remain in the forefront while social issues will remain divisive and negative. While there is the possibility of a new center party, the Democrats will still have a clear edge if the economy shows definite promise going into 2011 and the health care, global warming, and nuclear disarmament all show some progress. The immigration legislation reform bill if it can keep independents comfortable with secure borders will surely help the Democrats going into the 2010 Congressional Elections.

New leadership=new ideas | 3:36 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

I have to agree with most commenters that we need some major changes in our congressional and state politicians. The back scratching system in place fails the american people.

Too much compromise and not enough backbone to stand up for the american people.

Too much foreign politics and spending while the american people are struggling to survive.

And too many welfare programs feeding off government, our SSA, and Medicare programs that are private and individual accounts.

Not to mention too much fraud, waste, and abuse of tax funds and constant deficit spending.

I'm all for change and constant change to keep out good 'ol boy powers. Seniority is fine for positions in the houses of government, but lifer politicians lose there way real fast and forget why they are there.

Bennett and Hatch have reached the limits of their abilities. Which party has the dominant numbers should have no bearing in running a government or nation. They are all there for the same purpose, represent the people and regulate our laws and enforce the Constitution and keep the separation of powers.

Too many in Washington have succomed to Corporate america and money grabbing schemes.

cjm | 6:16 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

I'm really digusted that some have stooped to ageism. The worst biggotry against our grandparents.

These next elections are so critical that we really need to dig in with our own research and quit using catch all phrases of the propaganda machines we are hearing every day. Where were these rebel rousers two years ago when we needed them?

All the earmarks of corruption in the banking system were there. Why weren't we paying attention then?

Sen. Bennett's not my favorite but we need to really research this.

what in tucket? | 6:59 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

I wrote to Hatch about simplifying and lowering our taxes. The Republican party had plenty of years to improve things, but seem like it was status quo. Mr. Bennett seems an nice person, but I think we want more action. And a right wing person is not so bad. Right wing radical simply means you want a market, free enterprise economy. It must be monitored to be sure by the government. Mr. Matheson has not shown much restraint. HE voted for 90% of earmarks vs 87% against earmarks by Mr. Chaffetz.

You Know-Nothings! | 7:09 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

As a life long Republican, I am as conservative as can be but I get irritated and frankly embarassed at this knee-jerk, reactionary element in Utah Republican party. To say that Senator Bennett is a "liberal" (oh, that's a choice one) is an absolute joke. Only in Utah, as they say. Another brewing intraparty Utah GOP fight fueled, largely, by the EGOS OF OTHERS. Senator Bennett is not perfect, but he's very experienced, and most of all, has the SENIORITY that counts for something back in Washington. You may be sick of "washington" and "how it does business" but guess what? STUDY YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY. It's always been that way! You can't blame one senator for the dysfunctionality of 534 other elected Congressmen and Senators. That's a joke. Bennett is a good, decent, solid guy who has done a lot for this state. He's now on Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee which is vitally important for Utah. If you throw him out, you will not see that committee assignment and influence again in your LIFETIMES!

George | 7:11 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

If power belongs to "WE THE PEOPLE" then it is time to use it and vote out Bennett and the other incumbents! Get a spine and send the message we will no longer tolerate the spin, lying, and manipulation of ruling political class. We rebel at the outrageous spending, etc., that is reminiscent of another revolutionary cry: "taxation without representation".

FCO | 7:12 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

I have been to Washington 6 yrs in a row and visited each member of the Utah delegation by appt. Out of those six years I have met with Jim Matheson 4 times; Senator Hatch 2 times, Rob Bishop 1, Cannon 0 times, and Bennett 0 times. Yes, it's time for a new face in Washington, one who isn't afraid to meet his/her (Cherilyn Eager)consitutents face to face.

vote for Cherilyn Eagar | 7:14 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Cherilyn Eagar would do a great job back in D.C. Something missing from our 3 term Bennett.

In 2004 we didn't have a | 7:17 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

In 2004 we didn't have a great choice, so we got stuck with Bennett.

For 2010, we have much better choices, many of who are better than Bennett.

Time for Bennett to retire.

Not a leader | 7:46 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

In his time as Senator, I have not seen him lead out on anything. Utah should be at the forefront of leading the nation on many, many issues. Top of the list for me: say what you mean and mean what you say. What happened to only serving two terms Senator?

Fed Up | 7:59 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Not attempting to change his stripes. Only trying to camouflage them. He's only conservative when he's in the State of Utah. The same for Hatch. I say throw them all out. It's the only way they will listen.

We need to enforce term limits that they will not vote for themselves.

How about getting rid of their bloated pension plan. Talk about arrogance!

Ruben | 8:07 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Bennett is an OK guy, but he is not an effective leader or representative for the state of Utah or the nation. The only purpose he now serves in the senate is keeping his seat and life style. We desperatly need a good replacement for Bennett.

Geezer | 8:10 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Bennett represents the future of the Republican party because he's shown the ability to work across party lines and across ideological divides. He has influenced the course of national legislation. Those challenging him are trying to pull the party further to the right. That would throw this senate seat far out of the action and diminish Utah's influence in the U.S. Senate.

RJ | 8:17 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Look at the state of the country right now. There is no incumbent that has earned the right to be re-elected. Good old boy school does not work nor should it.

Bob in line | 8:22 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

I have heard the James Bond excuse many times now. It is great theater and basically plays the "we know more than you do" card. I did some research after the first time I heard it and haven't bought the line since.

Bottom line, Bennett and Washington DC think throwing money solves all problems. We are in this mess because of massive private debt fueld by dirt cheap lending (Federal Reserve lending rates) and now we are going to get out of this mess by more debt, although this time it will be Public Debt (with more Federal Reserve involvement.) In any case, debt is both the cause of and the cure to all the worlds problems.

And the people at the Federal Reserve like that. And they are thrilled with people like Bob Bennett. He supports them coming and going.

Sorry Bob, I'd vote for a rubber duck this time.

Rural Utah Needs Bennett | 8:28 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

To get things done while Obama and Secretary of Interior Ken Salazar are in power and call the shots on Dept of Interior issues. IMHO

Doug | 8:32 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Bennett is a good, decent man who should NOT be re-elected because many like I voted for him BECAUSE he promised only two terms. George Washington stepped down after two terms even though he was enormously popular because he was a true statesman, and cared more about his country than his own self. Bob Bennett should do the same.

Anonymous | 8:37 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Let the losers fight over their scraps.

Independent Voter | 8:43 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Most Americans are socially moderate and fiscally conservative. This so-called "new Republicanism" is claiming to be fiscally conservative, but it is also socially conservative. Unless Republicans can start enlarging their tent, they will only be a regional party for the foreseeable future.

sob | 8:48 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

i just love watching the right wing recreate the goldwater debacle of 64 again. the radicals take over the party, kick out the more thoughtful elements and then self destruct at the polls. of course utah will go all out to further distance it self from the main stream.... keep it up.

Dwight | 8:55 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Cgman hits the nail on the head. Utah conservatives routinely function in a fact free alternative universe that is most unappealing.

wiser | 9:01 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Wow! The L.A. Times must be in a sweat about the upcoming wipe out of the Obama regime. Starting early to target the republicans. Interesting to see the local liberals, also sweating, jump on the "let's control everything Obama bandwagon" Sorry but the Americans are wiser and will rally to defeat the socialist choo choo.

Anonymous | 9:04 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

I agree with much of what has been said. Both the Democratic party and the Republican party have lost their focus and their core values. I do not have anything against Senator Bennett other than he's served for many years and I can't think of anything he's done to show for it. He does a lot of earmark spending/pork, as do others and he tends to piggy back on any legislation which might be to his benefit rather sponsor/write the legislation we need. He's a follower, not a leader. His arrogance is like so many of his colleagues. The American people are ready for and need changes, the quickest way to get them is to vote out do nothing incumbants and elect qualified people who will serve with Integrity and do the right thing. I don't know who I'll vote for in this race.

Shirley | 9:34 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

I will be definitely voting all new people in next year. The reason being that we need our elected officials to do things for the people of Utah and not fall into the peer pressure in Washington. We most of all need our leaders to love God and this country and the constitution and keep our nation free. I am a tea party attender and proud of it.

peter | 10:14 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

These comments largely express what Americans are feeling about Washington, past and present. It is time for change, but not the way Obama wants it, or the way Bush wanted it. I want anyone who is for downsizing our Federal bureaucracy. Jason Chavetz is our only rep promoting this. We need more of his kind! Our States need to be in charge of themselves, without Federal control, just oversight. Who is out there that will actually fight for the States' and peoples' constitutional right?

George | 10:27 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

I am dismayed ny the LACK OF OUTRAGE by Bennett and Hatch over the direction of Washington. I want senators who will do more than compromise or vote against a bad bill. I want our senators to speak up with forcefulness in the defense of America! Both Bennett & Hatch will not do this because it violates the gentlemanly code of the elite club known as the Senate. It would jeopardize their standing within the Senate. This is a time for Patriots who will FIGHT for the country. I could care less if they are dems or repubs. I am also sick of seeing party put before the country, and all dems or repubs voting together because their party says so. Vote out all incumbents and send the message we have had enough of the "good ole boys" and back room deals to protect their seats.

Anonymous | 10:48 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Bah-bye! Don't let the door hit yah. It's time to clean house... and senate.

Seniority? | 11:04 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Seniority by a member of the Senate in a minority party really doesn't carry much weight. Let's not be talked into keeping Bennett because of his seniority.

change | 11:17 a.m. Nov. 15, 2009

They all voted for pay raises, when so many men and women were out of jobs. Disgraceful !!!

Out you go
1

@cgman | 12:54 a.m. | 12:06 p.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Are you kidding me? Their are no Glen Beck parrots! Glen Becks audience and supporters have grown not because he espouses every morsel of truth, but because he validates the principles that the real conservatives already believe.

I shocked by the blind insanity that goes on in this state when the people continue to blindly pull the lever for the incumbent on both sides expecting a different result.

Amazingly, no matter how the election turns out for Bennett, he will still get support again even though his and the collective incumbent congressional actions have contributed to bringing this nation to the brink of political, economic, and social destruction.

Enough of those who claim to support a platform and then when the electorate expects them to follow and implement it, then condescendingly look down at them and label them extreme.

Only those who are insane, are indifferent to freedom, or who lack the basic instincts of survival will support Bennet or Hatch when a true constitutional conservative alternative is available.

@Independent Voter | 8:43 a.m. | 12:17 p.m. Nov. 15, 2009

You cannot be serious. Fiscal conservatism and social moderatism is an oxymoron. Social programs defy fiscal conservatism. Social programs expand government and create independence on more programs.

The big tent philosophy is born out of liberal ideology, and espoused by those who are too lazy and weak to bring people to the party by virtue of the power of the principles contained in the platform. Ronald Reagan was the last person who could bring Americans to life and cause them to sit up and listen. Virtually all the GOP incumbents have become followers of PC not the principles espoused by the constitution or the party platform. They are the definition of arrogance and hypocrisy.

This is the lunacy of thought that Americans have finally started to wake up to.

two termer | 12:45 p.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Only one person on this post has brought up Bill's initial promise to a limite of two terms. Congress has become too much of a power ride for Mr. Bennett (and other incumbents line Hatch) who has failed to keep this promise.

Anonymous | 12:53 p.m. Nov. 15, 2009

The GOP has gone mad, which is why it is consigning itself to minority status which will last a generation, unless the Democrats overly submit to lobbyists.

Conservative Now To Save America | 12:55 p.m. Nov. 15, 2009

I will not vote for Bennett. His decision to support the so-called "Stimulus" is appalling! I want a conservative who has read the Constitution, comprehends it, and will uphold it. The Constitution grants 15 powers to the Congress and they have exceeded it by over 385. It is time for Bennett and others to leave office; they have already done enough damage. Serving in the Congress should not be a career; it should only be for one term for a senator, 6 years is enough.

I want a senator like Jason Chafetz. He gets it. Jason does what he campaigned on; otherwise known as integrity.

Bennet is just one of those good ole republicans, the kind that look just like democrats. They are the ones that Glenn Beck continues to warn us about.

I would rather vote for a no-name conservative than a republican or democrat...Please..the country needs you now. I know you are out there.

KenW | 1:01 p.m. Nov. 15, 2009

Bennett has broken this solemn oath to only serve 2 terms - Why would you need ANY other reason to vote him out of office?
The biggest problem that the country faces is summed up in having people in office and positions of power who have no regard for their word as an unbreakable bond. they cheat on their spouses, they cheat on their taxes, they write laws that they are not required to comply with, and they fail to understand or care that the Constitution is about LIMITED government - that the "Commerce Clause" is superseded by every single one of the amendments, and is not a catchall for whatever they think that "should be done"
Bottom line - he has lied, and needs to leave.

Anonymous | 1:25 p.m. Nov. 15, 2009

I call regularly to different elected officials to ask their position and to say "please vote y/n" on a particular bill. I'm not calling to start a discussion and have always been polite. With everyone else's offices, it's a 2 sentence conversation. Bennett's offices have been the only ones that I've had staffers act condescending and chew me out/belittle me. I say offices because it has happened multiple times at multiple offices. I can't get through to his Washington office 90 percent of the time, either. The conclusion I draw from my experiences trying to contact him is that there is a pervasive culture of arrogance among his staff, and that he can't be bothered with the voters. He's been there too long. Get him out.

Anonymous | 1:36 p.m. Nov. 15, 2009

KenW Orrin Hatch ran on term limits.

For all you drop outs turned constitution experts. If you're correct why don't the conservative extermist to feed to these stuff never take their arguments up in the courts?

Do you think they know they would lose?

To Ken W | 1:42 p.m. Nov. 15, 2009

You are right on. Vote out Bennett and let's get somebody who represents the people. He pledged to eave office after 2 terms...so what is the problem? Vote him out!

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