Brian’s Utah Weblog

Looking at last year’s legislature, Utah Democratic Party Executive Director (and Utah politics guru) Todd Taylor asked, “Would you consider posting or sending me a list of the 58 partisan votes? It is interesting where the difference in the Parties really are versus what people think they are.”

Yes, it is interesting. Overwhelmingly the real differences are on schools and conservation of Utah’s environment.  Guns, gays, war, and tax rates aren’t as controversial in the legislature as campaign ads would have you believe.

Seven bills here focus on school funding, teacher licensing, teacher pay, classroom expenses, and the like.  Republicans want to set standards and require uniform policies;  Democrats want to respect the experience of individual teachers and support local control.

Six bills focus on public lands, water rights, outdoor quality of life, and clean air and water.  Dems want us to have clean air and water and open space;  Republicans want to defer those priorities in favor of industry and development.

Three bills each focus on access to health care, access to justice in the courts, and voting rights.

Then there are two futile message bills about abortion and one bill each on immigration, ethics in government, the right to organize a union, consumer protection, professional licensing, and attempts to reform convicted criminals.