On April 8, the Deseret News published an Associated Press report of Sen. Lorin Jones' address to the St. George Chamber of Commerce. The article quotes Sen. Jones, R-Veyo, as saying: "There are wackos out there that want to drain Lake Powell. I think if they tried to do that, we who own guns, if there are any of us left by then, will be out there to meet them."
Whether or not one agrees with Sen. Jones' sentiments about preserving Lake Powell, the implicit violence in this statement is unacceptable. It is appalling that Sen. Jones, who is sworn to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law, could threaten to shoot federal civil servants if he doesn't get his way. Even worse, he appears to be encouraging others to adopt a similar lawless and violent attitude.I call on the leadership of the Utah Legislature to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation of this incident. If it is reported accurately, they should repudiate the sentiment and censure Sen. Jones.
Regardless of how we feel about Lake Powell or guns, advocating a violent response when we lose a political fight undermines the freedom and security we all enjoy. I sincerely hope the Republicans in the Legislature will not tolerate such irresponsible and seditious behavior on the part of one of their own.
Larry Walters
Provo