Our 30-year support of Sen. Orrin Hatch has now come to an end after reading the editorial in the May 17 issue of the Deseret News ("Debate debacle.")
Hatch's campaign states he has too much "pressing senatorial work" to participate in a taped-delay televised Republican primary debate with Dan Liljenquist to be shown in prime time to reach a wider viewing audience.
In our view, KSL and the Deseret News removed every possible excuse for Hatch when they offered to film the debate in Washington, D.C., to accommodate Hatch's schedule.
We prefer voting for someone who actually listens to Utah citizens and communicates effectively with them. The obvious arrogance of Hatch clearly indicates to Utah voters he has become an entrenched part of the Washington establishment with his loyalty rooted elsewhere rather than with his state constituency.
He has forgotten the very people who sent him to Washington on his so-called "pressing" duties. This is a sad, albeit revealing, commentary on Hatch's long record of service to conduct his last campaign in such a cowardly manner.
Delynn and Margaret Fielding
Castle Dale