As a lifelong Utahn, I value compassion, transparency and personal responsibility in government. I believe that when we elect someone to represent us, their duty is to do that — not exclusively obey party leaders.
It feels like that covenant between the people and our congressional delegation is frayed.
Take the Epstein files. The majority of Americans (77% according to latest Marist poll) wanted the full release of those records. Sunlight is the best disinfectant. Yet none of our representatives would sign the House discharge petition. They only voted for a release after their party leader finally conceded.
Or take healthcare. The ACA subsidies will soon expire, which would send healthcare costs skyrocketing for so many. Utah has the fourth-highest share of its population enrolled in ACA, according to the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute. But this will not only affect those on the marketplace — when their costs balloon, it will drive up premiums for everyone. This is something Utah small-business owners, seniors and parents will feel in their wallets.
Most Utahns hope to see our representatives working more towards the issues that matter to us — not simply following partisan politics.
Dustin Tate
Holladay