Take 2

On day 22 of the government shutdown, Utah Sen. John Curtis sat down with Heidi Hatch to share why he believes the stalemate was “pre-determined,” driven by partisan politics.Before the interview, Curtis voted for the 12th time to reopen the government with a continuing resolution that failed 54-46, falling short of the 60 votes needed to advance. Three Democrats voted with Republicans, but no additional Democrats crossed the aisle.At 22 days, the shutdown is now the second-longest funding lapse in modern history, surpassed only by the 35-day shutdown in late 2018 and early 2019.Curtis said a short-term continuing resolution may be necessary to get the government reopened, but it’s not a long-term solution.“It doesn’t make sense to keep the government closed when the very people we’re trying to help with high premiums are also the ones losing SNAP benefits,” he said.He noted that since 1974, Congress has only passed a budget on time four times, often relying on continuing resolutions or shutdowns that end in massive omnibus spending bills. Curtis is pushing a new approach modeled after Utah’s baseline budget system, where prior-year funding automatically carries over until new appropriations are passed.“Instead of a shutdown, an omnibus, or a CR, we’d simply stay on the previous appropriation,” he said, calling it a plan that promotes fiscal responsibility.Still, Curtis said Washington has grown accustomed to crisis politics.“Both Republicans and Democrats are part of the problem,” he said. “It’s a fair accusation.”While he said he understands the frustration of families facing higher health premiums, Curtis believes tying those costs to shutdown negotiations is inappropriate.On federal subsidies, he added, “People like free things once we give them free things. It’s near impossible to undo that. Do people at 400% of poverty really need zero premium? Maybe they need some help, but certainly not zero premium — and yet, how do you take that back?”As the Senate remains gridlocked and the House out of session, Curtis warned the shutdown could last “a long time” unless public pressure builds. He outlined potential off-ramps and pointed to his own proposals — such as a baseline budget bill and an automatic spending cut plan — as ways to prevent future shutdowns.Hatch also asked Curtis about rising beef prices and President Trump’s plan to import beef from Argentina, pressing whether the move could help or hurt Utah ranchers.Curtis also discusses his new bill on forest fire mitigation, the East Wing Ballroom renovation, energy prices, and the future of energy in Utah.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Take 2 Podcast – October 16, 2025Host: Heidi HatchGuests: Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz and Rep. Doug OwensEpisode Rundown:Holy War Weekend: BYU and Utah face off again, but let’s keep the rivalry friendly — not a real war.Politics and Polarization: Noble Analytics polling shows rising concern about political violence. Is that tension spilling over into sports and daily life?Prop 4 Battle: The Utah GOP moves to overturn the voter-approved independent redistricting measure, reigniting debate over fair maps and political power.Judicial Appointments: The public comment period opens for Utah’s newest judicial nominee.Government Shutdown: The standoff drags on in Washington as healthcare subsidies remain the sticking point.Middle East Update: President Trump returns from a historic peace deal signing in Israel.Utah Legislature: Lawmakers discuss new funding for career and technical education programs.Gas Prices: A proposed tax exemption change could save Utah drivers 10 to 20 cents a gallon.🎧 Stream the full episode wherever you get your podcasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Take 2 Podcast – October 9, 2025Hosts: Heidi HatchGuests: Maura Carabello, Exoro Group; Trent Staggs, Riverton Mayor and Small Business Administrator_____ISRAEL–HAMAS PEACE DEAL MOVES FORWARDPresident Donald Trump announced that Israel and Hamas have agreed on the first phase of a peace framework that would allow for the swift release of all hostages.Still missing from the plan are key details on Hamas’s disarmament and who will govern Gaza once the deal moves ahead. Those issues are expected to be part of later negotiations._____GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN – DAY 9The federal government shutdown has entered its ninth day, with Affordable Care Act subsidies still a sticking point for Democrats.Republicans have centered their messaging around health care for migrants, pushing for limits on taxpayer-funded benefits.In Utah, undocumented migrants can access emergency medical care, and some coverage is available for children._____NEW NUMBERS – UTAH RANKS 3RD IN MIGRANT ARRIVALSSalt Lake City is now one of the nation’s fastest-growing destinations for migrants, according to new data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection.Between May 2023 and January 2025, nearly 2.5 million migrants who entered the U.S. — either illegally or through legal protection under the CBP One app — reported where they planned to live.Miami led with 2,191 arrivals per 100,000 residents, followed by Fort Myers, Florida, at 1,782. Salt Lake City ranked third with 1,685, just ahead of Denver and New York.AP Source_____NEW ICE DIRECTOR – AGREEMENTS WITH UTAH CITIES AND COUNTIESThe new ICE director is expanding partnerships with Utah law enforcement under three models:Task Force Model – Local officers working directly with federal agents.Jail Enforcement Model – ICE cooperation within county jails.Warrant Service Officer Model – Deputized officers allowed to serve immigration-related warrants._____UTAH SPECIAL SESSIONLawmakers passed and the governor signed Map C, the new congressional redistricting plan. The map now heads to a judge for approval.With the new boundaries, Utah could see as many as two competitive races in the 2026 election cycle.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosts: Heidi Hatch, Scott Howell (former Utah Senate Minority Leader), John Dougal, Esq.Note: Scott Howell joined late after being held up in a meeting at the State Capitol.Topics This Week:The death of Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints President Russell M. Nelson, with President Dallin H. Oaks next in line. Will a change in leadership shape Utah policy, and has it in the past?The church responds to injuries and a death following a shooting and fire at the Grand Blanc meetinghouse.Turning Point USA continues its campus tour with a stop at Utah State University, just three weeks after the death of Charlie Kirk.Day two of the government shutdown, including discussion around the Department of Defense and war meetings.Utah redistricting maps gain backing from both parties.Sen. Dan McCay says he will not run for re-election if his wife wins the Riverton mayoral race.Opinions Featured:Free speech belongs to all Americans — not just to Charlie Kirk by Scott HowellRead hereLessons from Middle Earth — the danger of unchecked power by John DougalRead hereComing Up:Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs joins next weekUtah House Speaker Mike Schultz on Oct. 16See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Take 2 PodcastThursday, Sept. 25, 2025Guests: Heidi Hatch, Maura Carabello (Exoro Group), Sen. Daniel McCayRedistricting New MapsPublic comment period runs for 10 days, through Oct. 5Feedback can be submitted at redistricting.utah.govSpecial session scheduled for Oct. 6 to vote on the new mapFinal maps will be submitted to the courts for approval Great Salt Lake Water WoesGov. Spencer Cox launches GSL 2034, a public-private charter urging all Utahns to help restore the lakeComes with a $200 million pledge, half already committed by Ducks Unlimited over 10 yearsNew philanthropic coalition Great Salt Lake Rising aims to raise an additional $100 million within a year, led by Josh RomneyCox wants lake elevation back to 4,198 feet by the 2034 Winter Olympics (currently at 4,191 feet) Charlie Kirk Monument at UVUPetition supporting memorial: 20,000 signaturesPetition opposing memorial: 13,000 signaturesUVU announced creation of a Memorial Committee, co-chaired by Scott M. Smith (UVU Board of Trustees, Qualtrics co-founder) and Amanda Covington (Utah Board of Higher Education chair)Committee will include students, political leaders, and other stakeholders USU Turning Point Event – Tuesday, Sept. 30Featured guests: Gov. Spencer Cox, Sen. Mike Lee, Former Rep. Jason ChaffetzSome surprise at Cox’s participation after past criticism from Charlie Kirk in 2022Still unclear if the format will be a panel or Q&A Sutherland Institute TransitionRick Larsen to step down as CEO on Jan. 1, 2026, and become president emeritus One Week Out from Possible Government ShutdownFederal government faces shutdown if Congress fails to pass spending bill by Oct. 1Republicans and Democrats remain divided, particularly over extending enhanced ACA premium subsidiesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Heidi Hatch with guests Maura Carabello of the Exoro Group and Utah GOP Chair Rob AxsonOn this week’s Take 2 Podcast, we look at the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk on the campus of Utah Valley University in Orem. Utah GOP Chair Rob Axson, a friend of Kirk, and Maura Carabello of the Exoro Group join the discussion on the political and emotional fallout one week later.Topics this week:Charlie Kirk assassination at UVUGeorge Zinn, known in political circles, diverted police attention and was arrested on child pornography charges22-year-old Tyler Robinson, the accused shooter, faces the death penaltyUtah released Robinson’s mugshot despite state law prohibiting itA Pennsylvania man was arrested in Utah after posting an online threat against UVUDebate over university security and whether DPS or local law enforcement should step inBusinesses and universities firing employees over online comments after the assassinationUtah’s special session pushed back to Oct. 6Utah Legislature releases list of lawmakers who will oversee redistrictingTwo weeks until Congress faces its budget deadlineSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Take 2 PodcastSeptember 4, 2025Hosts: Heidi HatchGuests: Maura Carabello (Exoro Group), Liddy Huntsman (Salt Lake City Council Candidate, District 3)Episode Rundown: New 1,300-bed homeless services campusOpening in 2027 on a 16-acre parcel at 2520 North and 2200 West off I-215 in Salt Lake CityRoom to expand to 40 acres for a 50–100 year planCore services: recovery, employment, housing and criminal justice assistanceAnnual operations expected to cost more than $30 million$75 million needed for infrastructure, excluding land purchase Homelessness in Utah up 18%Children experiencing homelessness increased 12% (589 to 662)Seniors rose 42% (251 to 356)Veterans increased 36% (121 to 165)More than 10,000 Utahns experienced homelessness for the first time in 2024, a 5% riseSalt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall called the report a “battle cry” for the Legislature to provide more funding Redistricting and the 2026 midtermsJudge Dianna Gibson ruled current congressional maps unconstitutional and denied lawmakers’ request to pause her orderRuling restores the intent of Proposition 4, the independent redistricting commission voters approved in 2018Utah Republican Party Chairman Robert Axson called the decision “judicial activism” Congress back in sessionEpstein victims pressed lawmakers to release the full Justice Department investigation filesLooming Sept. 30 deadline for government funding raises threat of a shutdownA stopgap bill is likely, but Republicans need Democratic votes and Democrats are expected to push for concessionsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

HOST: Heidi HatchGuests: Maura Carabello Exoro Group and John Dougal Former State AuditorUtah’s Death Penalty Front and Center:Friday – Accused Tremonton Shooter makes 1st court appearance with face death penalty after shooting and killing 2 Tremonton OfficersUtah Supreme Court heard last Ralph Menzies Appeal – Menzies is scheduled to die September 5th just after midnightFiring Squad Execution after 38 years of appeals -Sentenced to die by firing squad for the 1986 kidnapping and murder of 26-year-old Maurine HunsakerShould Utah keep the death penalty when cases drag on for decades Texas House approves new GOP congressional maps after 2-week delayThis comes after Utah Dems Join Texas Dems protesting redistricting at Legislative conference https://kutv.com/news/local/utah-democrats-join-texas-lawmakers-in-redistricting-protestUtah awaits state Court ruling on Utah redistricting fight Newsom Signs California Redistricting Plan to Counter Texas RepublicansGov. Gavin Newsom and Democratic state lawmakers moved quickly to create new districts that could help their party flip five congressional seats. Their plan still requires voter approval. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/21/us/politics/california-newsom-redistricting-texas.html Calls for Utah Senate President to Resign for personal influence over sexual assault bill passed in 2024                Calls for change, but what change               Should legislators disclose or not to disclose reason for backing and running bills https://kutv.com/news/politics/governor-spencer-cox-defends-senate-president-adams-amid-calls-for-resignation#Trump to Sign Mail-in Ballots Executive OrderMike Lee backs the idea “As President Trump has made clear, it’s time to end mail-in voting Utah should lead the way on this Other states will follow” https://x.com/BasedMikeLee/status/1957913877494288666 Utah Primary Municipal Election HB300 unintended consequences signatures and ID digits  DC is now under Federal control for policing John Curtis –“Sadly, during my time in office, I’ve seen growing violence and a troubling decline in public safety for both my staff and visitors. I’m hopeful that new measures will help restore safety, respect, and accountability — building a community where families can thrive and everyone can walk its streets without fear.” Utah Sheriff’s concerned about ICE luring away their deputies with big bonuses Sheriffs across the State of Utah are concerned about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)'s latest recruitment tactic of sending letters to deputies and others who have trained with ICE under local agreements—seemingly trying to poach local law enforcement.Kane County Sheriff Tracy Glover, the president of the Utah Sheriffs Association, said ICE is trying to convince deputies to work for the agency using signing bonuses and other incentives.After multiple departments entered into agreements with ICE to work more closely together under the 287(G) program, deputies began receiving recruitment letters in their inboxes, something local departments did not appreciate. https://kutv.com/news/local/utah-sheriffs-criticize-ice-for-classless-recruitment-of-local-deputiesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Take 2 Podcast | June 12With Heidi HatchMaura Carabello (Exoro Group)Greg Hughes (KNRS, former House Speaker)Israel Strikes IranIsraeli military launches targeted strike on Iranian facilities.U.S. not involved but on alert for retaliation. Judge: Trump Acted IllegallyCourt rules Trump’s National Guard deployment to LA was unconstitutional.National Guard Troop control must return to Gov. Newsom.Newsom: “Democracy is next.” Protests in UtahAnti-ICE protest happening now in Salt Lake City.Statewide rallies expected for “No Kings Day” on Saturday.Gov. Cox, Mayor Mendenhall warn against violence but support peaceful protest.Flashback: 2020 protest fallout resurfaces—Sim Gill questioned SLC’s lack of police response in 2020. SLC Council Race Heats UpLiddy Huntsman, daughter of former Gov. Jon Huntsman, joins the race. AI Moratorium FightUtah lawmakers oppose pause on AI development in the “Big Beautiful Bill.”Concerns over innovation and economic growth raised.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week’s episode of the Take 2 Podcast, Heidi Hatch is joined by Maura Carabello of the Exoro Group and KNRS host and former House Speaker Greg Hughes to break down a busy week in politics, from national feuds to shifting Utah leadership.The Trump–Musk Bromance EndsWhat began as a mutual admiration between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has unraveled in public view. Musk recently criticized the federal deficit, saying, “We have a $2 trillion deficit. It keeps growing. Our interest payments are higher than our defense department budget.” That didn’t sit well with Trump. While the split has sparked national chatter, Utah Sen. Mike Lee tried to play peacemaker, saying simply, “But I really like both of them.”New Leadership in Utah’s House GOPFollowing a special election, Utah House Republicans selected a new leadership team:Speaker: Mike SchultzMajority Leader: Casey SniderMajority Whip: Candice PierucciAssistant Whip: Bridger BolinderUtah Democrats Elect New Party LeadersRoughly 1,400 delegates, both in person and remote, participated in the Utah Democratic Party’s convention over the weekend. Former lawmaker and 2024 gubernatorial candidate Brian King was elected party chair. Other leadership includes:Vice Chair: Susan MerrillSecretary: Brad DickterTreasurer: Catherine VoutazKing, who spent 16 years in the Utah Legislature, will now steer the party into 2026 and beyond.GOP Lawmakers Threaten Legislation Over Pride MonthUtah Jazz and the Utah Mammoth celebrating Pride Month sparked pushback from some Republican lawmakers. Rep. Trevor Lee posted on X, “Nothing makes Utahns more mad when political ideologies get pushed into their lives Watch for some significant legislation this next session that pushes back onto these woke groups!” The debate centers on whether tax dollars should support private entities that publicly support LGBTQ+ causes.Cox Appoints Former Reyes Aide to Lead Records OfficeGov. Spencer Cox named Lonny Pehrson to lead Utah’s new Government Records Office. Pehrson previously served in the Attorney General’s Office and was involved in efforts to keep AG Sean Reyes’ calendar from public disclosure, raising concerns from transparency advocates.Utah Supreme Court Justice to Step DownJustice John Pearce will leave the bench in December after a decade on the state’s high court. In his resignation, Pearce said he plans to return to private practice and continue teaching at the University of Utah’s S.J. Quinney College of Law. Cox will appoint a replacement from a list of seven candidates provided by the Appellate Nominating Commission. Senate confirmation is required.ATVs Return to Glen CanyonOff-road vehicles are officially back at Glen Canyon after former President Trump signed a resolution overturning a National Park Service rule. The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Celeste Maloy and Sens. John Curtis and Mike Lee, restores ATV access to 24 miles of park roads.Phil Lyman Teases 'Major Announcement'Utah Rep. Phil Lyman hinted at a big development as a public interest group from the East Coast plans to file a lawsuit in the state.Listen to the full episode of the Take 2 Podcast for in-depth commentary from Heidi, Maura, and Greg.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Former Utah Gov. Gary Herbert joined former CIA Director and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday at the Crossroads of the World International Trade Summit.The two shared a wide-ranging discussion on trade, immigration, and global power dynamics.The invite-only event, sponsored by Zions Bank and World Trade Center Utah, focused heavily on international trade and ongoing tariff negotiations with the Trump White House. Leaders from around the globe gathered in Salt Lake City to explore Utah’s growing influence on the international stage.Pompeo, who supports President Donald Trump, said he remains concerned about the long-term impact of tariffs.“President Trump hasn’t been clear about his overall strategic objective here,” he said, referring to the escalating trade measures involving nearly every major economy.Herbert said Utah is well-positioned to navigate trade challenges on a state level, but acknowledged the uncertainty is troubling.He also touched on divisions within the Republican Party, especially over trade, noting there are many in the GOP who support Trump but disagree with some of his economic policies.Herbert said his conversation with Pompeo also included discussions on Israel, Russia, China, and other global powers. The two also shared perspectives on U.S. immigration policy, an issue Herbert says Congress has failed to seriously address.“What happens, unfortunately, in my view, is we have too many in Congress setting aside solving a problem as a top priority to getting re-elected as the number one priority — and then they get re-elected, but the people suffer,” Herbert said.On border security, Herbert stressed the need for a “working door” to allow legal entry after the border is secured. He also defended Utah’s reputation as a welcoming state, referencing the Utah Compact, a set of principles focused on humane and practical immigration reform.When asked directly whether Utah has become a sanctuary state, Herbert was clear: “Utah is not a sanctuary state.”The former governor also highlighted the work of the Herbert Institute, which is currently focused on researching the use of artificial intelligence in Utah businesses.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

HOST: Heidi HatchGuests: Maura Carabello, Exoro Group; Greg Hughes, Former House Speaker/KNRSSpecial guest: Former SLCPD Chief Chris BurbankKamala Harris weighs run for governor or another presidential bidNational Security Advisor Mike Waltz out – nominated to represent the US at the United NationsUtah GOP Leadership Elections coming up in a couple weeksUnited Utah, Forward Party merge146,000+ signatures verified for the referendum to overturn a Utah bill restricting bargaining rights for unionsUSU Pres. Cantwell spent $660K on new cars, SLC apt., office bidet per SLTRIB reporting  Governors of Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming sign tri-state agreement to strengthen regional energy collaborationTrump’s first 100 daysBorder Security, drug/human/oil flow, and cartels with Special guest Former SLCPD Police Chief Chris BurbankSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

HOST: Heidi HatchGUESTS: Maura Carabello, Exoro Group and Greg Hughes, Former House Speaker/KNRS Judge rules Utah Fits All scholarship unconstitutionalGovernor Cox appeals Wednesday, the Judge rules that the program can continue while the court case plays out – teachers keep their raises Former Speaker of the House Brad Wilson Named 47G Board Chair RFK bans food dyes will phase out in US over the next two years. House Speaker Mike Schultz was at the FDA announcement with a Utah Delegation USU first to list program cuts after Utah Legislature cuts funding https://www.usu.edu/president/reinvestment/programs.cfm Trump Approval Ratings Dropping https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2025/04/23/trumps-job-rating-drops-key-policies-draw-majority-disapproval-as-he-nears-100-days/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Take 2 PodcastHost: Heidi HatchGuests: Maura Carabello, Greg HughesUtah Unions turn in 320k signaturesBernie Sanders and AOC rally gets crowd of 20k – Why does Utah tend to lean hard left and hard right?Utah named state with the best economic outlook for 18th straight yearRich States Poor States Report https://www.richstatespoorstates.org/states/UT/Utah domestic violence shelters face funding crisis amid rising demandDeportation war rages in DC over flights sent to El Salvador and Kilmar Abrego GarciaColumbia and Harvard respond to Trump funding cutsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.