Take 2

Take 2 Podcast March 27 Heidi Hatch Maura Carabello Exoro Group Rep Ryan Wilcox Utah Legislature   Repeal Prop 4 dies in Senate District 15 with signature removals   Trump signs emergency order to pay TSA agents as Congress struggles to reach funding deal   SLC Mayor Mendenhall: No water for ICE facility   Governor Cox vetoes: HB462: Gov. Spencer Cox vetoes bill providing internet service on Utah’s rural school buses   HB164:  Would have required health care providers to tell patients how to file complaints with the state Division of Professional Licensing   School bell-to-bell cell phone ban   All prop bets are off in Utah under new law   Curtis, Schiff introduce bipartisan legislation to ban sports prediction market contracts   Wilcox bills: HB0044S07 Criminal Use of Cryptocurrency Amendments HB0072S02 Coercion Amendments Creates the criminal offense of aiding or encouraging suicide (moving the current language regarding aiding suicide from the criminal offense of manslaughter).

Host: Heidi Hatch Maura Carabello Exoro Group John Dougall Former State Auditor   Utah Caucus night   Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz endorses Karianne Lisonbee against incumbent Congressman Blake Moore   Prop 4 Repeal Update – Senator Riebe District within striking distance for Better Boundaries 102 signatures beyond requirement   ICE warehouse SLC spurs protests and condemnation from SLC and County Mayor’s Utah Democrats SLC Mayor Mendenhall says they won’t run utilities and can’t to the warehouse, demands meeting with DHS Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said he was not given any notice that the Department of Homeland Security was purchasing a warehouse in Salt Lake City Cox said he supports having an ICE detention center in Utah: He said such a center is necessary in the West, as several states, he argued, lack space to hold migrant detainees. Cox said he’d discussed establishing a detention center in the state with President Joe Biden’s administration prior to Trump taking office again.     February Polling on ICE Detention in Utah     Cesar Chavez: An investigation by The New York Times found extensive evidence that the United Farm Workers co-founder groomed and sexually abused girls Utah Legislature named scholarships after Chavez SLC named 500 South after the Labor leader –   Gov. Cox signs 72 bills in the 2026 General Legislative Session   Governor Cox new book   Random House has announced a book deal with Spencer Cox, offering what the Utah governor calls a guide to lowering political tensions in the U.S.   The book, titled Off Ramp, focuses on depolarization and aims to help Americans navigate disagreements in everyday life, from the dinner table to social media and politics.

Host: Heidi Hatch Guests: Maura Carabello, Exoro Group • Rob Axson, Utah GOP Chair   Utah Legislative Session   Sen. Adams kills bill passed seconds after midnight   Last-minute signature removal law passed   Utahns for Representative Government gets signatures to put repeal of Prop 4 on the ballot   The petition to repeal Utah Proposition 4 ended up with nearly 166,000 verified signatures.   Signature removal deadline: April 23   Utah Congressional Races Shaping up   Utah CD1   Race shifting to the left.   A public town hall was held for the eight Democratic candidates running for Congress in Utah’s 1st District. Ben McAdams did not participate.   Utah CD2   Blake Moore, the 5th-ranked House Republican, is facing a primary challenge.   Karianne Lisonbee is serving her fourth term representing District 14. Before her election to the legislature, she served on the Syracuse City Council.   Utah CD3 Celeste Maloy, who won a hard-fought battle in the caucus convention, will face a challenger in Phil Lyman, who previously announced he would run for governor.   Utah CD4 Mike Kennedy has filed to run for re-election and already has two Republican primary challengers in the race.   Key Political Dates Caucus Night: Tuesday, March 17 Utah Conventions: April 25   National Issues   What Americans think about the war in Iran, and whether it could affect the midterms.   Partial government shutdown continues nearly a month in, with Utah TSA workers going without pay. 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 – Friday 2/27 Host Heidi Hatch Guests: Maura Carabello, John Dougall   State of the Union Hit or miss Senator Mike Lee’s SAVE America Act received a standing ovation. Congressman Blake Moore recognized in the third row (no name) for naming Trump accounts. Some Democrats held an alternate event outside in animal costumes. Democratic leadership had Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger deliver the rebuttal, focusing on affordability.   Proposition 4 Signature Verification Utah GOP has surpassed the statewide number needed to repeal Prop 4: 157,898 verified signatures. Congressman Blake Moore urges voters to let the process play out and stop attempting to remove signatures: “As a former co-chair of Better Boundaries, I encourage them and all parties to stop trying to undo the petition to reconsider Proposition 4 by attempting to remove signatures.” Federal District Court and Utah Supreme Court dismiss redistricting lawsuits; GOP options limited unless they appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.   Utah Legislature Updates Bills Introduced: 1,019 S.B. 308 – Judicial District Amendments: Will not move forward this session. Sen. Todd Weiler cited feedback from the Utah State Bar and legal community. HB88 – Immigrant Services Funding: Debate halted by Rep. Karen Peterson; bill sponsor Rep. Trevor Lee framed as protecting taxpayer money. Prediction Markets: Legislature advances ban on proposition betting; Attorney General warns online betting blurs legal lines. HB 423 – DUI and Hit-and-Run Amendments: Passed House committee and floor unanimously; Senate committee passed unanimously; now headed to full Senate vote. Closes gap where fleeing after seriously injuring/killing someone is only a third-degree felony. Secretary of State Proposal: House committee advances plan to amend Utah Constitution so Utahns elect a secretary of state in 2028 instead of the Lt. Governor overseeing elections.   Federal Election News U.S. Department of Justice sued Utah, Oklahoma, Kentucky, West Virginia, and New Jersey for failing to provide full voter rolls. Nationwide total now 29 states + D.C. AG Pam Bondi: “Accurate, well-maintained voter rolls are a requisite for the election integrity that the American people deserve.” Utah Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson: “Neither state nor federal law entitles the Department of Justice to collect private information on law-abiding American citizens… we will always follow the Constitution and the law.” Utah Democratic Party Chair Brian King: “This lawsuit is a blatant overreach and a threat to both Utah voters and our election process… it’s about control and interfering with the midterm election.” Congressional Votes & SAVE Act Four Republican senators, including Sen. John Curtis, opposed ending the filibuster to pass the SAVE Act. Curtis warned he wouldn’t support tabling Democratic amendments if it meant “changing the Senate’s rules.”   Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Sen. Mike Lee seeks to roll back Biden-era regulations, potentially expanding land use for grazing, mining, and other development. GAO opinion supports congressional review of the BLM plan; Rep. Celeste Maloy requested the review last year. Congress would have 60 legislative days to reject the rule; a simple majority vote would revert management to 2020 Trump-era rules. Supporters frame it as Congress reclaiming lawmaking authority from agencies rather than a state land control issue. No podcast next Friday, but join us March 12th with Utah GOP Chair Rob Axson after the state verification process ends for the Prop 4 repeal effort See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Host: Heidi Hatch Guests: Maura Carabello, Exoro Group & John Dougall, Former State Auditor Judge’s Ruling in Redistricting cases   Federal District Court Utah Supreme Court   UFRG and Utah GOP surpass expectations, turn in 200K + signatures   Current verified signatures 117,114   HB 575, Fuel Tax and Supply Amendments, Rep. Cal Roberts, R-Salt Lake   New Gas Tax bill reduces rate by 6 cents a gallon, a 15.8% savings – well below below original 20 Cents a gallon   Presser expected Monday: State Leaders to Announce Major Oil and Gas Supply, Water, and Refining Agreements   HB 587, Income Tax Amendments, Rep. Steve Eliason, R-Salt Lake   The bill reduces both the corporate and individual income tax rates from 4.5% to 4.45%.   Immigration HB 88, Public Assistance Amendments, Rep. Trevor Lee, R-Davis   Would prohibit undocumented immigrants from accessing state- and local-funded programs: nonemergency medical health care, local- or state-administered health care or health insurance, housing assistance, food assistance, cash benefits, tuition assistance.   The bill also allows the public to sue state employees who intentionally ignore the law's requirement to present proof of lawful status to access certain services.   HB 294, Employer Verification Amendments, Rep Tiara Auxier, R-Morgan   Would require companies with 100 or more workers to use E-Verify (or similar programs) when hiring employees.   Current law applies to companies with 150 or more workers.   US conducts first air transport of nuclear microreactor in bid to show technology's viability   Arrived at Hill Air Force Base via three Air Force C-17s, then transported to Utah San Rafael Energy Lab in Emery County. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Host: Heidi Hatch Guests: Maura Carabello, Exoro Group; Curt Bramble, former Utah state senator Happy Valentine’s Day. We’re halfway through the session, it’s Presidents' Day weekend, and it’s the anniversary of Utah women’s right to vote.   U.S. House approves the SAVE America Act as GOP makes election bill push Utah Reps. Kennedy, Moore, Maloy, and Owens all voted in favor. Sen. Mike Lee has 49 votes so far in the Senate. UTAH LEGISLATURE Utah lawmaker proposes HB 392, Unlicensed Driver Amendments, heads to the Senate.   As described by HB 136 sponsor Rep. Matt MacPherson, R-West Valley City, the bill is aimed at addressing the rising number of crashes caused by unlicensed drivers. Utah wants to remove marriage tax penalties.   New bill would limit tax credits for unmarried individuals in an attempt to incentivize marriage.   Tax penalties present an obstacle to married households, which threatens the best foundation for kids to have good life outcomes, according to Rep. Melissa Ballard, R-North Salt Lake.   Should Utah third graders struggling with reading be held back a year?   ‘Constitutional court’ three-judge panel bill takes on new amendments.   Utah’s digital ID program, “digital bill of rights,” could lead the nation in privacy framework.   Utah forces Chinese company to sell motorsports park in Tooele County. SIGNATURE GATHERING WINS AND LOSSES • Ben McAdams says he is the first to get the needed 7,000 signatures to make it on the ballot. • Prop 4 repeal signature gathering in 11th hour. Signatures must be turned in by Sunday, Feb. 15. • Salt Lake County tax referendum fails. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Host: Heidi Hatch Guests: Maura Carabello, Exoro Group Rob Axson, Utah GOP Chair NEW FEDERAL REDISTRICTING LAWSUIT A new federal lawsuit has been filed by Congressmen Burgess Owens and Celeste Maloy, along with other elected officials, challenging Utah’s redistricting process.   “Today we took action. I, along with elected officials throughout our state, filed a federal lawsuit to defend the constitutional process by which Utah chooses its representatives. We can’t just sit idly by as our representative government is weakened. This lawsuit exists to restore proper constitutional balance.” — Rep. Celeste Maloy   More information on the case: Powers-Gardner v. Henderson   Related developments with the lawsuit filed with the Utah Supreme Court: Utah Legislature asks the Utah Supreme Court to stay the redistricting ruling Utah County Clerk requests to join the case   PROP 4 REPEAL: FINAL DAYS 9 days remain in the Proposition 4 repeal signature-gathering effort, which officially ends Sunday, February 15. Signatures currently verified and submitted to the Lieutenant Governor’s Office: 52% Is a large final submission still coming? Utah GOP Chair Rob Axson offers insight Growing controversy surrounding the effort, including accusations of assaults on signature gatherers and complaints from voters who say they did not understand what they were signing   SIGNATURE GATHERING CONTROVERSY Better Boundaries announces a targeted signature removal campaign following reports of deceptive signature-gathering practices related to the repeal of Utah’s anti-gerrymandering law.   Better Boundaries says voters were misled by signature gatherers- our Take 2 guests argue this isn’t really an argument Utah County Attorney confirms a criminal investigation into potential signature-gathering fraud Utah County Clerk Aaron Davidson flagged approximately 300 signatures   SAVE AMERICA ACT The U.S. House is expected to vote next week on Sen. Mike Lee’s SAVE America Act, introduced with Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas). The bill would require proof of citizenship to vote Measures include photo ID requirements and documentation compliant with REAL ID standards See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Host: Heidi Hatch Guests: Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz; Maura Carabello, Exoro Group Tax Cuts & Budget Cuts Utah lawmakers advanced SB60, the proposed cut would reduce tax rates from 4.5% to 4.45% Opponents argue that the reduction could be better allocated amid a projected $300 million revenue loss   Utah Majority Family-focused legislation The House Majority Caucus has made cost-of-living and strong families a priority for this session   Utah Gas Prices Currently, Utah has a $0.385 tax rate per gallon for motor fuel sold at gas pumps in the state, but has an exemption for fuel exported out of state. A draft bill is still in the works that would reassess the state’s gas tax structure   Refineries produce up to 220,000 barrels a day, but about 75,000 of those are shipped out of state to meet demand elsewhere in the West, pushing our prices higher here at home.   As of late January 2026, Utah's average gas prices for regular unleaded are around $2.68 per gallon    Idaho Legislature is fighting Mad over Utah Legislations Idaho House speaker calls Utah House Speaker's plan “Bull manure”, and Speaker Schultz had some choice words in return https://legislature.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/HJM012.pdf   Sentencing Commission The Speaker is sponsoring HB 274 to reconfigure the sentencing commission. HB274, sponsored by House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, would change the makeup of the Utah Sentencing Commission by removing all defense lawyers from the commission and replacing them with more members from law enforcement. The Bar said it “strongly” opposes the bill because it “politicizes” the commission by restructuring it in a way that “favors law enforcement and partisan viewpoints.” https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0274.html   Utah won a $30 million bid for US Magnesium’s land, water rights, and mining agreements on Tuesday as part of a wider strategy to refill the shrinking Great Salt Lake Utah purchased US Magnesium’s land, water rights, and mining agreements for $30 million to help US Magnesium filed for bankruptcy in 2025, halting magnesium production. Gov. Spencer Cox and Department of Natural Resources Director Joel Ferry say the move is critical for long-term lake health and air quality   Where is Utah’s Appeal to the Supreme Court on Redistricting? Signature-gathering status: Will they need a miracle to get to the magic number by Feb. 14? When it comes to redistricting, most Utah voters do not believe the state legislature should be solely responsible for the district boundaries because it favors the party in power See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Host: Heidi Hatch Guests: Maura Carabello, Exoro Group; Nic Dunn, Sutherland Institute   Governor Spencer Cox — State of the State   Polling: Deseret News / Hinckley Institute One-third of Utah voters say affordable housing should be the Legislature’s top priority. Housing ranked twice as high as any other issue across all partisan and age groups. Utah Legislature's approval rating sits at 47% overall   Possible ICE Detention Center in Salt Lake County West-side Salt Lake City warehouse rumored as potential site Local city and county leaders appeared caught off guard, despite ICE’s two-year search for detention space statewide   Legislative Session Updates Utah Senate votes to expand the Utah Supreme Court from five to seven justices Sen. Nate Blouin’s ICE opt-out bill declared dead on arrival, killed in committee Bills to watch heading into Friday’s legislative deadline   BLM Approves Updated Northern Corridor Highway Plan Federal approval clears the way after years of debate and environmental review   Senator Mike Lee's Social Media Post Makes Headlines Reaction and political fallout discussed   Prop. 4 Repeal Effort Scott Presler returns to Utah for a second weekend of signature gathering to repeal Proposition 4   Coming Up Next Week Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz joins Take 2 Podcast 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 1/19/26 Host: Heidi Hatch Guests: State Sen. Jen Plumb, MD, State Rep. Ryan Wilcox MLK Day of Service highlights as the Utah legislative session begins Lawmakers kick off the session with a blood drive Minnesota facing growing tension amid an ICE surge Sen. Nate Blouin introduces a bill to block ICE from entering churches and hospitals and to ban agents from wearing masks Utah ICE detention center has been in planning for nearly two years, dating back to the Biden administration Trump’s “one big, beautiful bill” and tightening budgets loom over legislative sessions across the West, reporting from Brigham Tomco Utah State School Board asked to cut $300 million, about 5% of its budget Bill filed to expand Utah Supreme Court justices from five to seven U.S. Supreme Court hears arguments on state bans of transgender athletes in girls’ sports Conservative organizer Scott Presler in Utah gathering signatures to repeal Proposition 4 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 — Friday, Jan. 9, 2026 Host: Heidi Hatch Guests: Maura Carabello, Exoro Group; John Dougall, Former State Auditor Happy New Year and America’s 250th anniversary year.   8 people shot, 2 killed outside LDS church in Salt Lake City neighborhood   Nationwide protests after fatal ICE agent shooting in Minneapolis   Newly elected municipal leaders sworn in   Utah Political Updates   Filing deadlines and races The filing deadline has come and gone. Rob Bishop is running for a seat after Utah Rep. Matthew Gwynn announced he will not seek re-election. Former Provo Mayor Kaufusi is running for county commission. GOP Rep. Trevor Lee faces a challenge from Davis County Commissioner Bob Stevenson in House District 16. Three Republican candidates have filed to challenge Utah Senate President Stuart Adams in Senate District 7. Sen. Dan McCay announced his re-election bid while Rep. Doug Fiefia filed to challenge him. Sen. Nate Blouin is running for Congress. Four Democrats have filed: Richard T. Whitney, Silvia Caten, Evan Done and Taylor J. Paden, with Colin Smith also in the mix. County clerk challenge in Utah County: incumbent Aaron Davidson vs. newcomer Corey Astille.   Legal & Legislative The Utah Legislature filed a notice to appeal Utah’s redistricting case with the Utah Supreme Court, seeking to keep the old maps in place. Congressional filing deadline is March. Another Democrat joined the congressional race, bringing the total to 10 listed on Ballotpedia, with Liban Mohamed as number 10. A state school board member announced she won’t seek re-election, citing what she called a “corrupt” system. GOP priorities for the legislative session include a bill to ban cell phone use in schools from bell to bell. National & International ICE fatal shooting in Minnesota has led to nationwide protests, including in Salt Lake City. Nicolas Maduro captured (mention/source not verified in these notes — check if needed). Iran protests and internet shutdown. Trump administration weighing payments to Greenlanders to encourage closer ties with the U.S. Trump said his global power was limited only by his ‘own morality.’ New York Times interview: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/08/briefing/trump-interview-oval-office-apple-ceo.html?smid=url-share See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

HOST: Heidi Hatch GUESTS: Maura Carabello Exoro Group, Rep Ryan Wilcox Prop 4 is moving closer to the ballot as organizers report tens of thousands of signatures submitted to county clerks, even as another major policy fight begins to take shape. A newly filed effort to challenge Salt Lake County’s tax increase is now racing against a tight signature-gathering deadline, adding urgency to an already crowded political landscape. At the same time, unresolved court questions surrounding Prop 4 are keeping key decisions in limbo. Did you catch the Variety White House Expose? https://www.vanityfair.com/news/story/trump-susie-wiles-interview-exclusive-part-1?srsltid=AfmBOopKq4pM-ka2qo47Cc-_KgQd8ZemDcDLj8JIfkSPGgD6Yg2yglP7   Salt Lake County Tax Referendum Goud Maragani and others applied for the referendum on Monday, which if approved by clerk's office, gives them a chance to put the increase on next year's ballot. They would need to get about 45,000 handwritten signatures in 45 days. They are using volunteers.   Prop 4 Signature Gathering   Rob Axson Utah GOP Chair reports an estimated 75k valid signatures gathered – first signatures turned in a week ago to county clerks.   Few Hundred paid gatherers- majority local Utah hires   Latest on Prop 4 Case appeal   In new court filings, the legislature is asking Third District Judge Dianna Gibson to issue a final judgment in the case so they can appeal it to the Utah Supreme Court, which the plaintiffs and Gibson say she can’t do yet because of unresolved claims.   3 Governors Take the Stage together   3 Utah governors say the country ‘desperately needs more of Utah’ ... in the White House?   https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/3-utah-governors-country-desperately-030000599.html   Bridger Bolinder   A leader in Utah’s House Republican caucus says he will not seek reelection next year, citing other commitments and responsibilities that require his attention. House Majority Assistant Whip Bridger Bolinder, R-Grantsville, announced the decision this week. Bolinder was elected by his House colleagues to a leadership role over the summer, becoming one of the newest GOP leaders on Capitol Hill. “Serving in the Utah House of Representatives has truly been the honor of a lifetime,” Bolinder said in a post on Instagram. “Representing the people of Tooele, Juab and Millard counties has meant more to me than I can put into words.”   Political and Religious Violence   Brown University Shooting/MIT Professor Shooting – person of interest found dead Salem New Hampshire 2 Students killed, 9 critically injured MIT professor shot and killed at home Bondi Beach Shooting On Dec. 14, a mass shooting during a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney’s Bondi Beach killed 15 people, including a child, and injured dozens. Australian authorities said two gunmen linked to the Islamic State opened fire on a crowd of about 1,000 people, with police killing one suspect and arresting the other, who was critically injured. Police later removed two homemade bombs from a car connected to the attackers.   Trump Gave himself a year in review in primetime address. Border closed Peaced Deal Gaza/Israel Economy is awesome (Many would debate this)   Utah Year in Review Charlie Kirk shooting and Utah Congressional Maps biggest stories of the year   New Year New Documentary: Melania    Exclusively in theaters Jan 30 https://x.com/MELANIATRUMP/status/2001266577077837917?s=20 “Hi, Mr. President, congratulations,” Melania Trump says on the phone, speaking from a golden bathroom in the first trailer for “Melania,” Amazon MGM Studio‘s upcoming documentary about the First Lady. “Did you watch it?” Donald Trump asks on the other end of the call. “I did not, I will see it on the news,” she replies.   See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Host: Heidi Hatch Guests: Maura Carabello, Exoro Group; Nic Dunn, VP of Strategy, Sutherland Institute Salt Lake County Approves Property Tax Increase The Salt Lake County Council voted Tuesday night to approve a property tax increase of around 14%, lower than the originally proposed increase of nearly 20%. Special Session: Gov. Cox Signs 3 Bills Repeals the new law that stripped power from public labor unions Changes the filing deadlines for Utah’s 2026 congressional races Clarifies the exclusive and original appellate jurisdiction of the Utah Supreme Court Legislative Audits: District Attorney, Police and Criminal Justice System Salt Lake County District Attorney Audit Salt Lake City Police Department Audit Welfare Reform Nic Dunn returns from meetings in Washington, D.C. Work disincentives built into the current system Utah as a national leader due to: Health Care: Dueling Senate Bills Fail As the deadline approaches for expiring enhanced ACA subsidies, the Senate rejected: University of Utah Athletics: Private Equity Deal University of Utah unveils plan for a private equity partnership Otro Capital would become a minority owner in Utah Brands & Entertainment NCAA President warns schools to use caution with new forms of athletic equity financing Public Lands Group Files Lawsuit Over New National Parks Pass Featuring Former President Donald Trump See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Utah GOP has raised over $4 million to repeal Proposition 4. The money is being donated by 501(c)(4) out of MA   Signatures gathered- Rob Axson Utah GOP Chair reports healthy pace (tens of thousands) and growing momentum. None turned in yet.            Utah GOP filed for a stay, no ruling yet   Sutherland Institute Survey: Utah voters think elected officials, not judges, should choose congressional maps   https://sutherlandinstitute.org/utah-redisticting-survey/   Do voters agree or disagree with the court-driven process produced by proponents of Proposition 4? Sutherland Institute recently commissioned Y2 Analytics to conduct a survey of Utah voters to investigate this question.   By a 63-point margin, Utah voters believe that the policymakers they elect should be making redistricting decisions over judges. A full 71% of Utah voters say that an elected body or elected official at the state or county levels ought to have primary responsibility to decide congressional maps, compared to 8% who say judges should be primarily responsible. A plurality of Utah voters say that a body elected by the people (e.g., the Utah Legislature or county council) should be making redistricting decisions, while 21% of voters say it should be a state-level elected official (e.g., the governor), and 15% say it should be a county-level elected official (e,g., a county mayor).     5 Democratic Candidates in the D1 2025 Race   State Sen. Nate Blouin announced his candidacy Nov. 24- now backed by Bernie Newcomer Luis Villarreal entered the race 1st in Sen. Kathleen Riebe Former congressman Ben McAdams Former state Sen. Derek Kitchen.   REP. VERONA MAUGA looking to pass gun law change in upcoming session after shooting of Afa Ah Loo at No Kings Protest Drafting bill to keep long guns off the streets during protests Manslaughter charges filed this week against the “peace keeper”               Cox proposes $30.7B budget with funding for homeless campus, child tax credits Gov. Spencer Cox proposes a $30.7 billion budget prioritizing literacy, a homeless campus and child tax credits. The budget includes $20 million for reading support and $25 million for a homeless campus in Salt Lake City. Cox's proposal also allocates funds for school safety, technical colleges and outdoor recreation. fund a literacy public awareness campaign and invest tens of millions in "paraprofessionals" to help teachers give an extra hand to young students who are falling behind. That would include $20 million for reading support in elementary schools that fall below the statewide proficiency benchmark of 70% of third graders reading at grade level.   How the Trump administration could make or break Utah Gov. Cox’s budget priorities Trump tax bill leads to projected $300 million decrease in state income tax revenue. Gov. Cox prioritizes $25 million in budget to finish construction of homeless campus. Cox not proposing income tax cuts like the ones he supported for five years in a row. https://governor.utah.gov/press/gov-cox-releases-fy-2027-budget-proposal-focused-on-responsible-fiscal-management-strong-families-and-long-term-prosperity/       Rep. Blake Moore joins Pres. Trump to celebrate Michael and Susan Dell’s $6.25B investment in Trump Accounts   Congressman Blake Moore joined President Trump at the White House to celebrate Michael and Susan Dell’s monumental $6.25 billion investment in Trump Accounts for children. Congressman Moore introduced legislation in the House to establish these investment accounts, which was passed and signed into law as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act on July 4th, 2025.   U.S. pauses immigration applications from 19 countries after two National Guard members shot in DC See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Heidi Hatch | Maura Carabello, Exoro Group | Curt Bramble, former state senator • Speaker Mike Schultz on redistricting ruling Says Judge Gibson’s late decision blocked any chance for an emergency appeal; calls timing “wrong” and says it cut the Legislature out of the court process. • Rep. Burgess Owens letter Accuses judge of overstepping and “imposing an outcome never chosen by the people.” • Redistricting history with Curt Bramble Utah missed a fourth seat by 856 people after the 2000 Census; Bramble helped draw the first four-district map. • New map creates a safe blue district Republicans now competing for three GOP seats; questions around whether 74-year-old Owens will retire. • Candidates for Utah’s new Democratic district Derek Kitchen joins Ben McAdams and Kathleen Riebe. Others considering: Caroline Gleich, Kael Weston, Nate Blouin. • Trump backs release of Epstein files Bill requires AG to release unclassified DOJ records within 30 days, including names of officials and entities tied to Epstein. • Utah birthrate continues to fall Most counties still above replacement level, but two-thirds saw declines; shifts peak childbearing to ages 25–29. • Juvenile aggravated murder bill Would allow judges to send offenders convicted as adults directly to prison instead of secure care. • Brigham City nuclear project $750M investment under Gov. Cox’s “Operation Gigawatt,” creating Utah’s first full-scale nuclear ecosystem. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

KUTV TAKE 2 PODCAST Nov 14, 2025   Late-Night Ruling, Utah’s New Blue District, and the End of the Shutdown Guests: Rob Axson, Utah GOP Chair | Rep. Doug Owens New Maps: Judge Gibson throws out Map C and approves Map 1 — minutes before the deadline. Blue District: New 1st District leans D+14, putting a GOP-held seat in play. Appeal Uncertain: Cox supports appealing, but none filed yet. Prop 4 Fight: GOP ballot initiative to repeal the independent redistricting law underway UFRG.org Who Draws the Lines? Debate over legislative authority vs. judicial oversight. Democrats Jump In: McAdams running; Riebe challenging; Blouin a possible contender. Impeachment Talk: Rep. MacPherson drafting a bill to impeach the judge. Shutdown Ends: Trump signs funding bill; agencies reopen; ACA tax credits could spark the next battle. 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 – Friday, Nov. 7 | 2:30 p.m. Heidi Hatch with South Jordan Mayor Dawn Ramsey & Exoro Group’s Maura Carabello Utah Primaries Turnout: 30% statewide (Piute 63%, Salt Lake 23%) Tight mayoral races across the Wasatch Front Utah County incumbents trailing Provo Mayor concedes Cottonwood Heights: Mike Weichers concedes to Gay Lynn Bennion (57%-42%) Salt Lake City Council unchanged Southern Utah new Mayors   Government Shutdown FAA cutting flights 10%, Salt Lake Intl. among 40 airports hit Judge orders Trump to fund SNAP; Utah missed first payments Nov. 6 Utah Senate Democrats push to cover SNAP benefits Politics & Redistricting Utah’s new congressional map expected next week Ben McAdams likely to announce run after approval Utah GOP holding hearings on redistricting repeal (Nov. 3 & 10)   Davis County Taxes Property tax hike trimmed from 30% to 15%   Salt Lake County Council GOP members vote to cut childcare at rec centers and senior center to cut budget    National Election 2025 Democrats sweep key races in NY, VA, NJ Moderates win VA & NJ governorships Socialist Zohran Mamdani wins NYC mayor race over Andrew Cuomo California voters approve Prop 50, allowing new redistricting Young voters, women key blocks heading into 2026 midterms See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Utah faces mounting strain as the government shutdown hits day 29 — SNAP funding runs out, tax hikes loom, and homelessness policy shifts under new leadership. We break down the political standoff, the stakes for Utah families, and how state and local leaders are responding. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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, 2025 Host: Heidi Hatch Guests: Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz and Rep. Doug Owens Episode 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.