Tee Box 8

Oldroyd announces run for State House

2012-02-08T14:36:00.000-08:00

Today I announced my intention to seek the Republican nomination to serve in the Utah State House of Representatives for the new Legislative district 48 (representing E Lindon, NE Orem, and N Provo).

We are entering a critical time in America; we face significant financial challenges and attacks on our moral foundation. How we address these will determine what kind of a future we share with our children.

We need courageous conservatives willing to tackle these issues even in the face of criticism. Securing a bright future requires a vigilant defense of the Constitution and the family.

I am running because protecting our values and the right to secure prosperity and freedom is worth fighting for.

Utah is strong thanks to a generation of conservative ideals. But a bright future is not certain, and threats and attacks are always present.

We know liberty flourishes when the free market is allowed to operate unfettered by excessive regulations and government intrusion. I will fight to promote fiscal responsibility and accountability in government. We cannot let Washington's liberal spending habits take hold in the Beehive State.

Instead we must decrease Utah's dependency on a broken federal system. Government dependency is a recipe for destruction. I will fight to defend the Constitution by rejecting the tendency to view government as the solution to all our problems and instead pulling government back to unleash the wonders of our free market.

I am Pro-Life, and will fight to ensure Utah is doing all it can to protect the life of the unborn. The most vulnerable in our society need champions to protect them. As a pro-life advocate, you can count on me to ensure we give every life a fighting chance. Life is a gift from God and government’s role is to protect life and promote individual responsibility. I will fight the use of taxpayer funds that in any way harms the family unit or promotes any so-called family planning agenda.

I am a Pro-Business champion. Attracting new businesses is a priority. As we grow the economic pie our priority must be to fight for our existing local business heroes. As a pro-business champion, you can count on me to fight for a vibrant environment for all.

I am Pro-Education. As the father to six children in our public education system, I will work to find efficiencies at the Department of education level so that every dollar possible makes it to the classroom. Ensuring a good education is also one reason I will join others in holding the Federal government accountable for failing to abide by the charter agreement when we became a state. The education of our children is worth this battle.

I ask you to join me, because together we can defend the Constitution and protect the family, decrease dependency on and increase accountability of government, protect freedom by increasing fiscal responsibility, and improve the education of our children by making sure each dollar is used properly.

Over the coming weeks and months I look forward to sharing with you more about my background and experience. I'll be scheduling events and launching a website and Facebook page. In the meanwhile you can learn more by calling me directly at 801-404-8635 or emailing me anytime at Taylor@Tayloroldroyd.com

Thanks,

Taylor

p.s. Make sure to add 7pm March 15^th to your calendar so you can attend this year’s Republican neighborhood caucuses.

My Republican Party

2011-11-17T15:21:00.000-08:00

Being a Republican means you believe that the American Dream is still possible. A Republican supports creating a system that embraces the risk-taking entrepreneur and the fair and responsible use of land to build wealth.

Hard work and innovation is the path to return America to greatness. But Republicans believe government is too big, too expensive, and too intrusive into the lives of hard-working families and small business owners.

Republicans believe we need new taxpayers and not new taxes. We are Taxed Enough Already.

Raising taxes is a bad idea, especially in a time of economic uncertainty. The bail-outs and bloated spending bills must stop. The growth of government and the debt and deficit of this nation is unacceptable and unsustainable. Our future financial stability is at stake.

Confidence in the ability of government to rein in spending has been shattered these past three years and for the first time, the rising generation may not enjoy a higher quality of life than before. Confidence must be restored by returning to proven principles of fiscal discipline, individual responsibility, moral courage, government accountability, and the safety of our people through military strength.

Another reason the American people have no confidence in our national leaders right now is because they seem unwilling to acknowledge and appreciate the value of taking risk to build a prosperous future. Our Founding Fathers took enormous risk to overcome tyranny. They recognized then, and hard-working Americans know now, that risk is vital in creating jobs. Republicans believe government should get out of the way of risk-taking entrepreneurs and allow the spirit that built this nation to thrive.

As an idea takes hold and the product or service goes to market, jobs will be created and confidence restored. But this is not possible when regulation, fear of increased taxes and fees, and potential litigation is looming over head. Government must stop punishing risk and instead encourage it with lower fees and reduced regulatory burdens.

Once the spirit of innovation is unleashed, our economy will recover and a rising tide will lift all boats. That was a favorite saying of former President Ronald Reagan; who also talked about America as a light on the hill. The American Dream will be possible once again but only through recognizing and encouraging working Americans to once again take risk to build a prosperous future.

Being a Republican also means that you respect the land and recognize that much of our wealth, both individually and as a nation, comes from the land. Agriculture, energy, and textiles are a few vital aspects of everyday life that requires responsible but unfettered access to land. Republicans believe that government must also get out of the way of our growers, producers, and energy developers. In addition, States should have the right to use their land to support education and build wealth and a prosperous economy.

The growth of the debt and deficit of this nation is only rivaled perhaps by the growth of regulatory red tape that acts as another hurdle for businesses and families. Few places have this burden been more apparent than on managing our lands. Republicans want to rein in the liberal environmental extremism and legal system that punishes those that responsibly use the land to grow and feed the world. Local ranchers and County Commissioners know and love these lands more than Federal bureaucrats and Hollywood liberals. Green is not the new gold and government should recognize that America’s producers and growers deserve to operate free from burdensome regulations.

America will be great again when we support the fair and responsible use of land to build wealth and create a system that embraces the risk-taking entrepreneur. Confidence will be restored when government supports a robust private-sector where innovation and competition will lead to generations of prosperity.

A republic if you can keep it

2011-07-15T09:25:00.000-07:00

We need to increase our perspective and appreciation of the Constitution through study, meditation, and experience so we can take needed steps to help defend the divinely inspired Constitution and protect the family.

Without a declaration of Independence and the establishment of this great nation, the world is without hope, liberty, and freedom. America is freedom's strongest advocate but I am concerned that we are asking too much of our government because maybe we have forgotten what form of government we have and the tremendous sacrifices made to achieve it.

The Second Continental Congress met in May of 1775. Debate continued even after the Declaration of Independence was accepted in July of 1776 and continued for another year when Congress sent for ratification of the Articles of Confederation; it took four years to be ratified by all states. The Articles of Confederation however had some weaknesses so debate continued into the 1780s.

Then on a day in 1787, 56 delegates walked into Independence Hall in Philly as visionary risk takers and walked out forever to go down in history as patriots; citizen statesmen who sacrificed much and demonstrated wisdom beyond this mortal life.

As they exited from their grueling experience, an aging Ben Franklin was asked by Mrs Powell, "Well Doctor, do we have a republic or a monarchy?" His reply is worthy of telling over and over again. "A republic if you can keep it."

A republic was the goal because it is the form of government where the power rests with the people. It seems almost academic now as nations across the globe seek freedom but at this early stage in our history, this was a bold and risky goal.

The answer of why a republic is worth fighting for is a personal one but a big reason for me is without our involvement, government will continue to grow and a government big enough to do everything for us is big enough to take everything from us. I am deeply concerned with the direction we are headed as a nation. I believe we are in need once again of citizen statesmen willing to acknowledge the divine and willing to make the hard decisions to preserve our liberty.

When the founding fathers appeared at loggerheads over perceived critical issues, they turned to their maker for inspiration. Their prayer was simple and it worked.

So because I believe the foundation of this nation was divinely inspired, then I believe that our role today is to fight to preserve the republic.

How we keep a republic is not rocket science but it takes action. How we maintain a republic starts with voting. I'm afraid the apathy and complacency of the public is the biggest threat to a republic. With our financial and moral future at stake, there is no room today for the cynic sitting on the sidelines. It pains me to read the voter stats from our community; they're not high enough. We need to be willing to engage, kick the tires, and make things happen; even if we are criticized along the way.

One of my political heroes Ezra Taft Benson quoted another political giant, Thomas Jefferson, in his book An Enemy Hath Done This, when he encouraged participation: "He who fears criticism is hopeless. Only those who do things are criticized. To hesitate for fear of criticism is cowardly."

The Constitution is worth fighting for; we should never take for grated its great principles: the separation of powers, the individual guarantees in the Bill of Rights, the structure of federalism, the sovereignty of the people, the principles of the rule of law.

Don't let others action disenfranchise you from the process. Because the system only works if we stay involved. Daniel Webster wrote, "I apprehend no danger to our country from a foreign foe...our destruction, should it come at all, will be from the inattention of the people to the concerns of their government, from their carelessness and negligence." he continued, "I fear that they may place too implicit a confidence in their public servants, and fail properly to scrutinize their conduct..."

There are many ways to be involved...and to teach our children that they must become educated and involved. Harvard recently published a study that says families attending July 4 celebrations boosts their voter turnout and increases their political contributions later in life. It is unacceptable to attend July 4 celebrations but stay home on election day. Anyone that places more energy into preparing for the July 4 BBQ than researching political candidates and issues is missing both the spirit and the letter of the law of what it means to live in a republic.

Each of us must commit to never miss voting on election day. Commit to research the issues and the candidates. Commit to participating in the process of public policy because this process can and has taken away some freedoms. And lastly, live a moral life because James Madison said that, "our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other."

We live in a republic, if we can keep it. Only through our actions and contributions do we contribute to keeping it and defending the constitution and protecting the family.

More thoughts on SCC Amendment B

2011-04-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

Dear delegates,

Much of the information you have received about the State Central Committee (SCC) Amendment B has been a blatant mischaracterization of the proposal. Here are the facts:

We are all on the same Republican team, both the SCC and State Delegates. Our goals are to get Republicans elected and promote the principles in our platform.

The SCC is made up of representatives of County Parties around the state and it gives you the County Delegates representation at the state level. This maximizes your influence in state Republican Party politics.

SCC members meet once a quarter, while conventions only happen once a year.

The SCC already approves any constitution changes that the Convention hears in advance of the Convention.

There are three principles at work with the SCC Amendment B proposal:

1. You must be able to reconcile constitution changes with existing constitution provisions. Many times, there are amendments and substitutions during a convention. It is difficult to wait for a full year until the next convention to reconcile any conflicts in the constitution that arise.

2. Much as our federal government and state government constitutions are difficult to change, so should our party constitution. An additional group of eyes looking at the product of the Convention can be helpful.

3. As a County Delegate, you should want the SCC involved in as much decision making as possible because they are your representatives in state party governance. This proposal is a way to preserve the independence of county parties against hasty and irreversible changes that many times affect our county party governance.

This proposal was recommended unanimously by the State Constitution and Bylaws Committee and was advanced for Convention consideration by a 2/3 vote of the SCC in December. Remember that this proposal has to be approved by the Convention delegates. If they think there is a higher principle at work, then they will reject the proposal.

Remember what I suggested at the beginning. We are all on the same Republican team. There is no desire on the part of SCC members to override the will of the delegates, in spite of the mean spirited accusations by opponents of this proposal. The SCC members understood perfectly well that State Delegates will decide if they like this proposal or not. Only as we work together as a Party will we continue to get Republicans elected and promote the principles in our platform.

Proposals considered first at convention are final. I like having the SCC vet and approve them, essentially strengthening them and also catching other possible unseen problems. Why fear an added set of eyes on any good ideas?

Thoughts on Amendment B

2011-04-22T15:03:00.000-07:00

I have been questioned about my views about a proposal previously considered at SCC. Here is the proposal: “The Constitution may be amended by a 2/3 vote of the members at a State Central Committee meeting if subsequently ratified by a majority vote of the Delegates present at the State Convention. This Constitution may also be amended by 2/3 vote of Delegates present at the State Convention, if subsequently ratified by a majority vote of the State Central Committee.” (Utah Republican Party Constitution, Article X.B)

I support a few concepts with this and am interested in further and more robust discussion about this proposal. I recall the author said he was introducing it for discussion purposes and I think many voted for it to keep the discussion alive. I welcome the discussion and think this idea has merit but is not perfect by any means...in fact I hear that it may not come up in June (the author is reconsidering, I guess from feedback he's received).

At any rate, I think that we need to make it difficult to amend our party governing documents. I have seen too much time spent (wasted) in crazy ideas that really don’t build for a stronger party. I like the concept that if it's not broken then don’t fix it. Some like the constant tampering and fiddling. I don’t think it is productive.

This change will make it more difficult to amend the Constitution than the Bylaws “It formerly was common practice to divide the basic rules of an organization into two documents, in order that one of them--the constitution--might be made more difficult to amend than the other, to which the name bylaws was applied. In such a case, the constitution would generally contain the most essential provisions…” (Roberts Rules, pages 13-14).

One other key point is this in NOT a power grab because the SCC already has the ability to prevent a convention from amending the constitution. Under the Bylaws, the C/B Committee decides whether proposed constitutional amendments go to the convention or to the SCC. The controversial amendments are going first to the SCC, which has more time to deliberate on them and make improvements, before they go to the convention. (Bylaws 7.5.H)

Why fear an added set of eyes on a good idea?

Thoughts on Convention & Future of GOP

2011-04-22T11:09:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Organizing Convention is fast approaching. Now is when delegates start taking a deeper look at the candidates for party officers and the State Central Committee.

As the out-going Chair, I have a unique perspective on issues and many of these candidates. I hope you will read this post so you will be better informed about why I am running for the SCC and feel free to call me to hear how I stand on the candidates. My other recent posts will give you a chance to understand where I stand on other topics.

The Republican Party is the best vehicle to ensure that America remain morally strong and economically prosperous. I have been involved in the GOP since 1991 and believe that through active participation we can protect our Liberty. I got involved in the GOP because our principles are the path to prosperity and strength. When interviewing other candidates, make sure you ask them why they are involved because these past two years I have seen many that don’t share this view. I am concerned with the attitude that is causing the Party to be angry and full of infighting.

We have great days ahead of us but this path is not sure and vision and vigilance is required.

I have been a fighter for conservative principles all my life. I don’t back down from advocating for adherence to Constitutional principles and protection of the family. But not all share these ideals and so I will fight everyday to ensure a brighter future for our children.

That is why I want to continue to serve as a member of the SCC. Thank you for your consideration. If any want to learn more please call me directly 801-404-8635. I also have relevant insight into all the races that I am happy to share so call anytime.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve as chair these past two years and I appreciate all you do.

Taylor Oldroyd

Responsibility of SCC:

The SCC is similar to our county central committee and members need to be prepared to advocate for our platform. I take this responsibility very serious and that is why I have attended the meetings and never passed up an opportunity to protect the process and our platform.

One of my heroes is Ezra Taft Benson and he said we should never be afraid to advocate for conservative principles because of fear of criticism. I agree.

IRV:

I do not support IRV as a general rule. I trust a system that allows for educating the delegates and an IRV limits the ability to learn in-between rounds of voting. It is possible with an IRV method that the person with an extreme voice can get elected without a majority. For example, with four candidates running and three strong candidates and one extreme candidate that the three cancel out each other and the one without the majority support can win by default.

Ex-officio delegates:

I strongly believe that when we elect our Representatives that we ask them to perform a variety of functions and one of these is to be a delegate. Most Ex-officio delegates hold much institutional knowledge and it would be a disservice to the party to widen the gap of accountability. In fact, we need to close the gap not widen it. We can’t do that by driving a wedge between the grassroots and the officials.

The argument is a veiled attempt to force a wedge between our elected officials and party members and the result will be a weaker party and eventually elected Democrats. If you don’t believe me then look at the history of Salt Lake County; they have been through this and the proof is clear.

Challenges of the GOP:

I believe the greatest threat to the GOP and this nation is the apathy and complacency of the people. I am also worried that we are turning into a party of “angry” individuals instead of maintaining our core strength as united conservatives with a clear message for prosperity and moral strength.

We are strong when we stand together and our voices must be heard to make a difference. But analyze the significant challenges I faced during my term and you can see a real and growing threat to our party.

Rather than use proven processes accepted in Robert Rules and common sense, some try to sue and complain their way into power. They would rather personally attack others leading to their disenfranchisement and inactivity so that their voice is louder, than articulate a vision. I see this tactic used by enemies of conservative principles. Glenn Beck, Sean Hannity, and Rush talk about this all day so you don’t need to hear it from me but our values are under attack at home and abroad and we must vigilantly defend the process of rules and laws.

That is why I reject the law suit and those defending this approach.

It has been partnership and cooperation that has forged this nation and the freedoms we enjoy. Utah has become strong this way and the US will once again return to greatness through partnership and articulating our vision and not through fighting and other militant self-righteous tactics.

Obama's Red Tape

2011-02-14T20:16:00.001-08:00

I am glad to have come across an article titled, Red Tape Rising in the Jan 22nd The Economist...not because it is good news, because it certainly isn’t, but because now I have more information to fight in support of business and economic prosperity.

I don’t know why reading about the rise in red tape struck me so sharply but the realization of what we now face has stirred me to even further advocacy for a return to conservative principles and rejection of the slide towards socialism. This is the cause of our day.

The article begins with a summary of the future we face, "Ever since his thumping in the mid-term elections, Barak Obama has been busily mending relations with business folk. He has extended existing tax cuts, introduced new ones, completed a free-trade deal and appointed a banker as chief of staff. Now he is attending to their biggest grievance: that he has enmeshed them in stifling new rules, form health care and finance to oil-drilling and greenhouse gases."

"In his first two years in office the federal government issues 132 "economically significant" rules, according to Susan Dudley of George Washington University. ("Economically significant" means that either the rule's costs, or its benefits, exceed $100 Million a year.) That is about 40% more than the annual rate under both George Bush junior and Bill Clinton. Many rules associated with the newly passed health-care and financial-reform laws are still to come."

I personally reject the recent moderation in his actions and speeches; after all, if it wasn’t for his failed policies in the first place, we wouldn’t be in such dire straights. Frankly, the only reason he has moderated at all is because even Obama can't ignore the hard reality since the dramatic mid-term election results. But his conversion is a bit to convenient for me; I don’t trust his new found pro-business posturing.

He talks big on one hand while stepping up enforcement on the other. The article states, "Existing rules are also being enforced more keenly. The workplace-safety regulators slapped employers with 167% more violations in Obama's first year than in Bush's last, according to OMB Watch, a liberal watchdog. The FDA has stepped up scrutiny of drugs already approved. The regulatory workforce has grown 16% in Obama's first two years to 276,429, while private employment has fallen." What this means is with federal regulatory jobs have grown to over 20% of the total percent of federal employment; the number of employers has dwindled.

Despite the fact that some businesses concede that some new regulations were needed, the pattern of systematic attack on the job creators means that America will be facing growing debt, deficit, higher fees, increased regulations, shrinking margins, and added risks all while fighting porous borders, pandering to foreign nations, and continued deficit spending. Sounds like the rise in Obama's red tape is further evidence that we need to continue changing the names on the doors on Capitol Hill and on Pennsylvania Avenue.

Is it OK to sue the Party?

2011-01-21T08:58:00.000-08:00

I approach my volunteer service in the Republican Party with the optimistic notion that everyone is trying their best. I appreciate anyone who volunteers their time to make the world a better place. While each of us has different goals and objectives, I suspect we all want to defend the Constitution and protect the family. We have children or grandchildren and so are willing to roll up our sleeves to create a better future for them. America is a great land and our party ideals of limited government and adherence to the Constitution are the proven path to ensure that our liberty will be preserved.

Central to our Party and efforts to protect liberty is respecting the process of public dialogue and debate. In fact, our party and most organizations operate in good faith when setting policies, bylaws, and governing documents.

The Utah County Republican Party (UCRP) doesn’t have a perfect system or perfect documents and, none of us is perfect, but we volunteer in good faith and come to these meetings to engage in cordial discussion about how to make the UCRP better.

The UCRP faces a significant question: is appropriate to use a lawsuit as part of this process? I think the answer is a clear NO. But I didn’t get a chance to make my case during the Executive Committee last night.

The law suit is supposedly trying to enforce a rule that the plaintiffs claim we are ignoring.

But as chairman of the Utah County Republican Party and a duly elected member of the Central Committee, I filed a complaint under Constitution Article III – Organizing Powers (G, 2, d) and also under Bylaw 5 – Republican Party Accountability, and submit to the Executive Committee to consider acts of malfeasance, misfeasance, and nonfeasance.

I think that using your party title and suing the party violates your obligations and responsibilities as members of the UCRP.

The substance of the Complaint is that the URP and the County Parties are in violation of the state party constitution, bylaws and other rules regarding “automatic delegates.” The Plaintiffs asked for a Temporary Restraining Order to be put into effect.

The UCRP is tolerant of (and benefits from) a diversity of opinion but following a display of wanton disregard for Party operations, policies, and procedures these three have shown in their choice to jointly file legal action against the Party that they are not fit to continue holding their positions. I believe that they knowingly chose the timing of this complaint to do the most public damage to the Party and have chosen actions that would have disrupted our grassroots party caucuses at the last minute.

Judge Sandra Peuler denied the request for a Temporary Restraining Order and listed several reasons for denying the request:

1. Standing Rule #1 (which allows Counties to allocate Automatic/Ex-Officio delegate positions) was adopted in 2002. Judge Peuler also indicated that issuing a Restraining Order on the Party has the potential to cause great harm to the State and County Parties because the Caucuses are only two weeks away.

2. Judge Peuler did not see that any irreparable harm would be done to any delegate as previous delegates have reviewed the automatic delegate issue in the past and have allowed automatics to serve.

3. Judge Peuler ruled that the Plaintiffs were not entitled to the Temporary Restraining Order because it did not appear to her that they would succeed on the merits of the claim for two reasons:

#1: A very similar complaint was brought before Judge Glenn Iwasaki in 2008. Judge Iwaski denied the Temporary Restraining Order, and eventually dismissed the complaint.

#2: In evaluating the need for a Temporary Restraining Order, Judge Peuler was not convinced by her preliminary reading of the URP Constitution that automatic delegates are prohibited or in violation of any Party Rules.

The lawsuit violated the following parts of the Constitution and Bylaws of the Utah County Republican Party:

1. As Republicans residing in Utah County, State of Utah, we do hereby establish this Constitution of the Utah County Republican Party in order to support the Constitution of the United States of America and the Constitution of the State of Utah; to support local, state and national Republican Parties; (Constitution Preamble)

The Executive Committee is obligated to investigate charges of alleged malfeasance, misfeasance or nonfeasance in office by any party officer; to conduct hearings and make findings thereof; to remove officers based on its findings. (Constitution Article 3 G 2 d).

Malfeasance, “intentionally doing something either legally or morally wrong which one had no right to do. It always involves dishonesty, illegality or knowingly exceeding authority for improper reasons (dictionary.law.com).”

The Utah Republican Party and Utah County Republican Party have a clearly defined process to make changes to its Constitution, Bylaws, and Standing Rules. Those suing the Party have participated and understand the proper procedures to make changes; and knowingly attempted to exceed authority by bringing this issue to the Courts.

Bylaw 1 of the UCRP states: “Any member of the Central Committee may propose Bylaws. (Bylaw 1 C).” All three plaintiffs are members of the UCRP Central Committee. Article 2 of the URP Constitution states: “The State Central Committee may adopt Bylaws to govern subjects not covered by the Constitution (Article 2 A).” “Any Bylaw adopted or modified by the State Central Committee shall be binding and in full force and effect when adopted by a 2/3 vote of a quorum of the State Central Committee (Article 2 B 1).” All three plaintiffs are members of the URP Central Committee.

I see this debate, not about whether the application of Ex Officio delegates is right or if it violates our current governing documents. We have debated before and we will again debate the use and application of Ex Officio delegates. I welcome that debate; in fact, at the very first Central Committee that I chaired we changed the rules that allowed for the Chair to have 10 discretionary appointments.

We followed a good process to do that then. The losers didn’t file legal action when they lost. This is the process now. As leaders of the UCRP, I suggest we must protect the process. So the issue is whether it’s ok to sue the party during the course of regular debate. Is legal action against the UCRP to promote your side of an argument part of the established process to change our governing documents?

I adamantly suggest this is not the case and must not be, especially from those in leadership positions who are representing more people than themselves as they try to make their case.

Above all, an action like this dishonors everything we stand for. It instantly changes the nature of what had been free and equal debate, introducing protracted attorney interaction and threats of huge legal bills if one side does not cave in to the other, divorcing individuals from the organization and allowing the state’s legal system to try to finish the debate.

A lawsuit is especially divisive because it sends the message that the negotiating relationship is terminated. But it in this case it goes even farther because those bringing the suit hold positions of leadership. So, I ask you to ask Executive Committee members how they plan to protect the process of how to propose changes and at the same time make it clear that intimidating behavior that deliberately disenfranchises others will not be tolerated.

Main Arguments:

First, does the UCRP have a clear process for proposing bylaw changes? What is the proper method to change UCRP governing policies…Lawsuit or propose a bylaw change? The answer to this is obvious to me…one brings a resolution before one of the governing bodies of the Party.

Second, when filing the lawsuit, the three used UCRP titles and positions. This is clearly a violation of our rules.

Third, the three plaintiffs used a method they know has failed before –the courts have rejected it as improper procedure. The result is us taking valuable time we should be spending recruiting, training and motivating others to get involved and instead wasting it with lawsuits and complaints. The lawsuit also came just ahead of caucuses, which was viewed by many as a deliberate attempt to disrupt normal party operations and deny members of the UCRP their right to caucus.

Finally, the suit trumps the will of the UCRP governing bodies. The use of RONR is often held high by the plaintiffs and yet nothing in RONR allows for such a lawsuit. Further, this is an effort to replace the will of the CC, EC and SC.

If the suit isn’t bad enough on its face, each plaintiff used their party positions (SCC members) in their affidavit. The respondents committed misfeasance when, as officers of the party, they made public statements that injure the party and our purposes. Party office holders, by their election, have a duty to promote the party and its purposes.

RONR Page 624, Line 5 “.. An organization or assembly has the ultimate right to… require that its members refrain from conduct injurious to the organization or its purposes”.

RONR Page 630, Line 3 ““tending to injure the good name of the organization, disturb its well-being, or hamper it in its work.” In any society, behavior of this nature is a serious offense properly subject to disciplinary action, whether the bylaws make mention of it or not.

The respondents were party officers when they filed the lawsuit against the Republican Party, and made specific note of their positions of trust within the party as members of the State Central Committee.

Court papers are public statements, no different than holding a press conference on the steps of the capitol. When the respondents filed the laws suite they made the following statements about the Republican Party:

It does “threaten to again subvert the pact of freedom embodied in the GOP constitution.”

Is harming “many” members of the Republican Party by “depriving them of a free and fair election”

Is depriving the respondents of their “right to vote”

Is doing “immediate and irreparable harm” to these party officials

Is depriving the State Central Committee of its “lawful right to govern the Utah Republican Party”.

And Republican Party members “do not understand the principles involved in delegate selection”.

These statements disparage the party, discourage voters from membership in the Republican Party, and provide significant aid and encouragement to opposition parties.

If we look to our governing documents for guidance as to how to proceed on other violations, many removal-from-office violations are less serious than what we have here. Therefore, I suggest this egregious violation warrants removal from office.

I believe the people involved in the lawsuit knowingly used this attempt when, even with a minimal amount of research into the prior history of similar lawsuits, they would have realized it was just a repeat of a previous failed action. The timing of the lawsuit, asking for an injunction to stop the caucuses just prior to the caucuses, cannot and should not be seen as a coincidence and must also be viewed as a reason to seek enhanced penalties for this action.

Courts have stated in the past that they are not going to get involved in overseeing a private entity’s governing documents and policies. In 1994, due to a Supreme Court ruling, the State of Utah almost completely divorced itself from meddling in political parties. The real net effect of this lawsuit, possibly even the intent, will be to deter many frustrated voters who are looking for a political party that provides leadership and creative solutions to today’s pressing challenges. Nothing like that is forthcoming from this legal action.

My final point is the suit attempts to trump the will of the UCRP governing bodies.

At the last SCC, one plaintiff argued against a proposal to allow the body to act on certain proposals stating that it’s a question of numbers; the rules of the party should not be held by the fewest amounts of people but should be reserved for action by the larger body. Well, his suit is an ultimate disregard for the will of the body. The three plaintiffs are trying to force a rule on the entire UCRP by force.

I find this situation especially ironic given the frequency that the plaintiffs site RONR as the model for conduct in our party. I can’t count how many times these three chastise me and others when we have been following UCRP rules that trump RONR, but now they find it inconvenient to use RONR.

I challenge anyone to find a single reference in RONR that allows the filing of a lawsuit as an acceptable tactic for winning a debate. RONR has been adopted by our Party and I find no reference to the right of a body to sue? With no reference that allows the use of a lawsuit to prevail in a debate then I believe this effort is solely for the purpose of replacing the will of the CC, EC and SC. This is a clear violation of our rules and constitutes malfeasance, misfeasance, and nonfeasance.

VICTORY for GOP in 2010 and Beyond

2011-01-07T09:44:00.000-08:00

BIG VICTORY for the GOP in 2010...and Beyond

Being the Chair of the Utah County Republican Party (UCRP) has been a great experience; I've only got a few short months left. But we have seen some important things happen in 2009-2010 and the foundation is set for an even better 2011 and beyond. We reached our goal to elect Republicans and the stage is set for continued success for years to come. Many of our candidates increased their margin of victory.

VICTORY has been our goal but it is also our theme for continued success. As we energetically articulate what it means to be a Republican and promote our conservative Vision, we educate others and motivate them to stay involved in the process of making public policy. But as we talk of prosperity through less government we must remain Inclusive in our dialogue, events and activities. For long-lasting strength, we must welcome all voters, including those from diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds. We must never fear those with a different idea; all deserve a seat at the table of discourse and let the best ideas rise to the top.

We must not only be inclusive in our behavior but we must improve our Communication with the party faithful and the public at large to recruit, train, and motivate others to be involved in the political process. We can do this by using Technology to improve outreach and increase understanding. Technology is a tool that promotes what it means to be a Republican but we must conduct ourselves with Openness and transparency to truly increase fairness and unity. This outreach to like-minded groups, individuals, and organizations will strengthen Relationships and help expand our interaction with today's Youth, since the rising generation will be tomorrow's leaders.

VICTORY and prosperity will only be possible when all members of the Republican family join together. We invite you to join with the UCRP and put aside past differences (politics should never be personal) and focus on that which will make us stronger.

VICTORY and progress towards unity is also only possible when we respect the process of making policy and rules. Our Party must protect the process of making rules and proposing changes to those rules; we must protect the process of vigorous dialogue and debate, and then unite behind the chosen solution. We will always face factions that want to dictate what they want above the will of the majority.

We face a future full of challenges. The UCRP will continue to achieve VICTORY and show we have the solutions when we respect the process and advocate for adherence to our Constitution and Platform. This is my goal in 2011.

Need for Courageous Public Servants Willing to Face Attacks

2010-11-29T09:28:00.000-08:00

I read with concern a recent article in the Daily Herald about some residents complaining (again) against Councilmember Steve Turley. I am concerned because this appears like an early shot in the campaign for next year’s council races. Ask yourself, what business owner is willing to face unsubstantiated complaints like this? I say unsubstantiated because from what I’ve heard, these are old complaints that have already been dismissed but now brought up again in a new way. This appears to be is a sneaky move to influence the current council decisions and further discourages other business owners from participating in the process for fear of similar tactics against them.

That is why this complaint is so troubling; it undermines the process and disenfranchises participants. In addition to a dampening effect on future candidates for office, this is a veiled attempt to reverse the voters will. We have elections in America. In other countries, if your majority or coalition is questioned then the leaders can call for a vote of confidence and appeal to the voters for support. In America we hold our elections on set dates and this is the process established to hold accountable our officials.

In addition, this is a supposed call for increased transparency. But how can a call for transparency mean anything when those issuing it hide behind a spokesperson? When will the list of 23 be made public?

As I understand one of the alleged complaints is that Mr. Turley has diminished the council because he was involved in as effort to replace a member of the council: the Stop Cindy campaign. Did Turley hide behind his efforts? No. He published his support for a new voice on the council and stands behind the record of votes and facts that he was concerned with. I ask those bringing this complaint; Why the need to hide behind a spokesperson? In a call for accountability, I challenge the 23 to stand up and be accountable.

I also am not blind to the obvious attack against commerce that this complaint represents. How so you ask? Well one neighbor of the group’s spokesperson 2 months ago attended a council meeting and objected to a land proposal because, in part, the owner may make some money. And another associated with this group has attacked other developers, Realtors, landlords, and property owners. Yet another has proposed to change Provo’s ethics rules, already more strict than the state laws. He admitted his proposal would be nearly impossible for business and property owners to comply with.

This effort reminds me of how I felt when I heard President Obama describe the only member of his cabinet from the private sector as a spy behind enemy lines. I guess we shouldn’t be surprised that Barak Obama his disdain for the entrepreneurial spirit of America. We have now seen firsthand how this president feels about commerce. His headlong rush toward socialism has us nearly bankrupt. But should we condone this attitude here in our valley? I say no.

Some I guess just feel more comfortable that government has the answers to our economic woes. I for one am not supportive of that idea. I support the notion that the best government is the one that governs least; I support a part-time council made up of residents from a diverse background of businesses and community interests. We need our council to understand how when the city sets a budget they do so with tax funds; after all, when government spends money they are spending our money.

Taxpayers voted in the recent elections with a load voice that we are taxed enough already and that property rights are the foundation of this great community and nation and should not be taken without due compensation.

A narrow group of residents, hiding behind a call for increased ethics sounds all too familiar with the sham ethics proposal that was rejected by voters across the state. We don’t need a biased panel dictating what is ethical according to their standards. We as voters demand that elections mean something and that a small group should NOT be allowed to push their narrow and biased agenda through complaints and law suits.

I sure hope that the Mayor’s office, in working with the County Attorney and Attorney General can put this to rest with a quick dismissal.

I wonder at the motive of those brining up old news now. It seems obvious it is designed to influence Mr. Turley’s judicial proceedings, upcoming council leadership elections, next year’s elections, and other business endeavors of part-time council members.

I’m grateful that we have a courageous public servant willing to put up with this defamation and harassment. I hope that other business owners won’t be discouraged from stepping forward because what type of government do we have when good business-minded individuals stop serving? I dare say that the public won’t like the result. We’ll have our rights stripped and increased taxes and costs.

I’m hopeful that individuals that understand what it means to make payroll, and understand property rights will take the risks and stand for better government and help defend the process of holding accountability and it is done at elections.

Why Change a Good Thing? or If It Ain't Broke Don't Fix It

2010-10-13T14:46:00.000-07:00

“Hope and change! Change we can believe in! Change we can trust! Change we need!” We all remember President Obama invoking those phrases on the campaign trail. Now along comes Richard Davis, Democrat Party Chairman, saying “It’s time for a change in Utah County.”

This plea comes at a time when Utah is being recognized nationally as “Best Managed State in America”(Pew Foundation), “Best Expected Economic Recovery” (ALEC), “America’s Best State to Live In” (Forbes Magazine), “Most Dynamic Economy” (Kauffman), “Best Quality of Life” (Business Facilities Magazine), “Some of the Best Places to Live” (Money Magazine), “Best Financial Situation in the Country” (Forbes Magazine), “Among the Top 10 States for Job Creation” (IHS Global Insight) among others. These prestigious recognitions don’t happen by accident. They come as a result of implementing Republican principles of government that maximize freedom, liberty, and free markets. After all, it’s the private sector that creates economic growth.

Nationally, Democrat change has translated into Obamacare, bail-outs, more government, more spending, and less freedom and liberty. At every turn, Democrats promised moderation during the election, and then delivered the most liberal, socialistic government in the history of America.

Rather than justify their party’s liberal platform, Utah County Democrats want voters to ignore the party label. They have adopted a “local” platform that almost mirrors that of the Republicans with the exception that they support universal healthcare (think Obamacare). They say they are “fiscally and socially conservative” and “in favor of gun rights.” It even sounds Republican. So either Democrats are closet Republicans who perhaps don’t want to put in the necessary work during the Republican caucus, convention and primary process or they really are Democrats who are disguising the fact in hope you’ll ignore it.

In truth, no matter how much Democrats say they are just like Republicans, in politics the leaf (local Democrats) is a part of the tree (national Democrats).

Take ethics for example and Mr. Davis’ implication that his party is somehow more ethical, an intended slight towards Republicans. Mr. Davis failed to point out that the Republicans have addressed ethics legislation over the past few years, creating a framework that increases transparency and disclosure. Those changes are substantial and are working. I also question Mr. Davis’s claim that Utah County residents support the ethics initiative even when it failed to gain enough signatures to be placed on the ballot. Maybe that’s because many Utah County voters know what’s in the 21-page document—that it is fraught with a host of constitutional issues and would preclude many good, honest community and business leaders from running for office. Utah County Republicans read the bill before passing it, unlike Pelosi Democrats.

A part of ethical behavior is disclosure and transparency. Yet Mr. Davis advised all Democrat candidates to not identify themselves as Democrats on their websites, signs, billboards or literature; confusing voters at best and deceiving them at worst. A Daily Herald editorial September 23, 2010 said it best why Utah County Democrats don’t want to be Democrats, “Utah County voters are not excited about the liberal policies of prominent democrats, Obama, Pelosi and Reid”.

Local Democrats would rather tell you about their religious affiliation and LDS church leadership positions so you know they are “good people” than be known as Democrats. While they very likely are good people, we have all heard the saying “never mix religion with politics”. Recently, many were outraged when Mike Huckabee attacked Mitt Romney for his religion. Using religion to demean or promote any candidate should have no place in American politics. The critical concern for elected office should be the ability to provide good government, not a contest to prove the level of faithfulness in religious practice.

Party affiliation does matter in partisan races. No matter how much a candidate may disclaim the national party ideology, local and state parties are foot soldiers for the national party. When controversy arises, party affiliation counts. Even in Utah this happens. In 2004, the constitutional amendment defining marriage between a man and a woman was approved in the State Senate by one vote; everyone voted along party lines. One more Democrat would have killed the bill to protect our traditional families.

Mr. Davis would have Utah County voters believe that there is little difference between candidates from his party and the Republican Party. I say, Utah County voters are smarter than that. When Americans bought Democrats “change we can believe in” two years ago, it was a big government mistake that has long-term financial impacts. Now at the national and local level Americans will get to choose between big government and less government, more spending or less spending, more freedom or less freedom.

In November, vote Republican. Your freedom, your values, and your pocketbook depend on it.

2010-09-20T13:48:00.000-07:00

I was recently interviewed by a reporter asking about why local Democrat candidates are not listing their party affiliation on their campaign materials. I think the answer is obvious but here are the thoughts I shared with him. BTW, another point he asked about is why these same Dems are listing their LDS church jobs on the same material where they fail to list their party.

Democrats across the county are running from their party and their leaders...clear proof that party matters...and a fact that local democrats are aware of. And who can blame them? Few want to be associated with the agenda coming out of DC.

What party you belong to reflects the values that you hold. The choice is clear between the parties, even here in Utah County. Party and party values are also important because it gives an indication of what type of policies (laws) you will pursue. Public policy is ultimately what elections are all about. A name may be on the ballot but I believe elections are about our goal of good public policy. Utahans recognize that a name with a R behind it means that they can have greater confidence that they share the same values. So party also reflects what policies that candidate will consider and support. Party influences and signals strongly to the public the values behind a persons choice of party.

This is why it is irresponsible that local Dems appeal to the public to ignore the party, when their tactical decision to not use party affiliation is a strong sign they know it matters. They would rather that the voters consider church service alone.

As I mentioned before, elections are about more than the candidate and so as voters weigh the candidates and their background, they do so with the hope that good policy will be adopted. The fact that traditional election cycle results are being ignored and many established leaders are being replaced is a sign that the voter is waking up. This is a very good thing. Our system requires active participation. The frustrated voter is closing the gap of accountability and rejecting party labels and titles. All seeking office must connect deeper to party values and with the public to survive. So party (party values) will become even more important not less important. Again, its not about the specific individuals but what values does the person hold...that will influence what positions and laws they will support. So voters are rejecting those that have not demonstrated their connection to the party values and governing documents.

Local Dems listing of church titles is another failed effort by those that feel entitled. Sure it helps somewhat connect the voter with the values but while early everyone in the LDS community appreciates Church service, we also recognize that these experiences should help influence a persons values so when a person states that the public should ignore the party label but trust that my church service demonstrates I share your values, then the voter interprets that as why if they share my values do they choose a party that is so far off from my values (I don't want to list all the ways that Dems are wrong on both moral and fiscal value issues)? It is nearly impossible to separate a party's values with the persons values. Ultimately I believe that listing of church service will backfire and hurt candidates that want the public to ignore party affiliation and consider their church service. In the church we don't seek specific callings and we also don't say no to a call. And we certainly shouldn't use these past experiences to further our own agendas.

Basically, the Dems running in Utah County have an identification problem - they're Dems yet insist on saying, "We're really Republicans." People are smarter than that; they understand that a vote for a Democrat is a vote for that type of leadership. This is one of the best arguments against supporting Matheson - his first vote in Congress is for the Speaker, Nancy Pelosi.

They've tried for years to distance themselves from the Democratic Party structure by using lines like, "Vote for the man, not the party." This year it looks like their strategy is, "Values you can trust." But in Utah we understand that a party is principle-base you adhere to and whether the Dems like it or not, they're on the opposite side of too many issues important to Republicans (again, the very reason why they remove their party affiliation).

A perfect example of how out of touch they are is local Democrats advocate for a system which empowers unelected persons (UEG & Fair Boundaries) to make decisions. This deflects responsibility and accountability where it belongs...with the voter. Republicans understand that there needs to be accountability and that they are accountable every election.

I hate the listing of church-related service on campaign material. Do you have to be a bishop, stake president, or return mission president to be credible? I hope not. This would certainly narrow down the pool of people eligible. I also don't think that a former Mission Pres or Bishop is more qualified than a Sunday School teacher or Primary worker. They certainly can't claim a deeper testimony and we all know stories of church leaders that have been disasters and some that have even been excommunicated.

Few candidates even try to play the religion card. And for good reason, it usually backfires. Local Dems will not find much success in this campaign gimmick of hide and seek either...in fact voters will reject it out-right. It is offensive to the voter. Dems try to spin that they believe in full disclosure and transparency yet they don't disclose to the public their party label and focus instead on church service. Nice try.

GOP Strength Comes From the People

2010-09-08T13:23:00.000-07:00

Is the GOP serious about supporting their conservative platform? In the past they have been slow to hold their nominees and officials accountable and have ignored actions deemed outside the traditional values of the party. Rather we seemed comfortable in accepting that from time to time it was ok to compromise our values. We trusted that these representatives would stay on track even though from time to time they ventured off course.

But those days are over. The party is getting back to the time-tested principles proven to build prosperity and create jobs. This transformation restores the party to its true strength – the people. The party is now putting their trust and faith back in the guiding documents and full adherence is required by our leaders. Politicians addicted to power, spending, and “playing the game” are being fired.

I remember during the Clinton years, many of my Republican friends commented that Clinton was the best thing to happen to the party; he energized the base and helped us focus on issues. The problem was our leaders didn’t catch the wave and we allowed them to stray. Our complacency continued during the Bush years and spending was a weakness.

Luckily it has only taken a short Obama era to wake us up fully. And just in time: I’m not sure the country could afford for the people to sleep any longer. Conservatives are engaged again and America is on the path to restore her strength.

It is the people that made America; average men and women doing extraordinary things; and risking even their lives to build a new country. Each citizen was fully engaged in the messy and often inconvenient process of making laws and debating policies. But they recognized that freedom is worth some inconvenience.

During the recent GOP state convention a comment was made that Bennett had been in office too long. I asked this new and angry delegate where he had been during those years. Obviously he had not been engaged. I appreciate the added energy and hope the new interest will help erase the complacency and apathy once and for all. The gap of accountability has been wide for too long. I along with many of my fellow conservatives will work every day to close it and throw away the key.

Never Give Up

2010-09-02T07:35:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, I participated in the Utah Half Ironman Triathlon. I had been preparing for many months and had my race day plan; I was eager to test my physical and mental fortitude. And boy did I.

After a better than expected 1.2 mile swim, I set off on the 56-mile bike course. But with 10 miles or so left, my quads started to lock up and cramp. I struggled just getting off the bike and thought my day was over; the thought of running 13 miles seemed nearly impossible. Faced with what seemed like an insurmountable challenge, I thought, “Let’s just see how it goes the first mile.” I’m confident anyone watching me thought that guy will never make it. But I thought of my family and friends cheering me on and kept going. I dug deep and before long realized I was passing the three-mile marker and my pace had picked up. I was running again.

Physically I thought I was done quite a few times, but mentally I wanted to succeed—so I persevered and kept going. In business and in life, we often face what seems like insurmountable obstacles that test all of our preparation and training. Should we give up? I say never. To succeed in life, and a triathlon, it takes preparation and a game plan. And when I hit some road bumps, I made adjustments, refueled, dug deep, and kept going.

Believe it or not, finishing that race gave me confidence to try again even harder the next time. I will train better and smarter, and now my experience will come into play to help me through the hard times. I have worked with many of you and know that during these tough times, you can and will prepare, work hard, dig deep, build your business by following your game plan. Take time to re-evaluate and refocus. Turn to a mentor and loving family and friends. And mostly, never give up.

Crisis of Confidence

2010-07-13T08:35:00.000-07:00

It is amazing that liberals are sticking to their failed policy that government spending is the way to spur economic development and create jobs. Recently Speaker Pelosi said that issuing unemployment checks was the quickest way to create jobs. Is this really a talking point that Democrats believe connects with the working and frustrated American? President Obama echoed a similar lack of understanding of the economy when he recently promised his Union friends additional funds to supposedly buoy-up the economy.

The hard-working American business owner has little confidence that this president and congressional leaders have a plan to address the weak economy. Continued spending is a failed strategy. Supposed necessary bail-outs have had no real positive impact on the economy and for certain, another will only drive us further into debt and delay the day when the invisible hand of a robust free-market must work to restore the fundamentals to place us back on the path to prosperity.

The truth is capitalism works. I know this is a hard concept that liberals and progressives hate to acknowledge. But the time-tested truth is big government is the enemy of small business and small business is the nexus of prosperity. I’m not saying there is no role of government nor am I saying that capitalism isn’t messy. But government must stop spending money and liberals must acknowledge that for business to thrive, we need government off our backs and out of our wallets.

Business owner across the country face a crisis of confidence. While Obama is in the White House and liberals control both Houses of Congress, businesses wonder what is next. So while liberals get more desperate as they watch their support fade and poll numbers drop, the American business owner holds their breath in hopes that they can survive the final two years of the Obama administration. What the American business owner and their hard-working employees need are less government regulations and a government willing to cut spending and waste now.

A prosperous economy will require a quick return to conservative constitutionally-founded principles. We need our elected Representatives to stop the rush to socialism and start asking what the proper role of government is. This is the only way to bring American away from the brink of financial destruction.

President Ronald Reagan said Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it.

This disastrous trend must end and Utah’s GOP leaders and candidates are prepared to show the way. As the best managed state in the nation, Utah offers the example: after years as the majority party, the GOP can demonstrate fiscal and economic leadership. A victorious GOP this fall will help restore fiscal sanity to Washington, and continue to lead here in Utah.

Only through fiscal discipline will confidence of both business owners and consumers return and the economy improve.

Let's debate but not boo

2010-05-05T15:24:00.000-07:00

As the Utah State GOP Nominating Convention nears, the discussion of booing came up between me and a few other delegates.

I have volunteered too many hours to agree that it is ok to boo. We all know that a boo is far more than just the opposite of applause. For example, when you are displeased with your child or disagree with a neighbor or another family member, I hope you don’t boo them but continue to communicate with them and educate them and work out the differences with integrity and fairness.

The time and place for disagreement is in the arena of public debate (and trust me, I love this process) but at a nominating convention it is very rude to boo. I may disagree with an elected official but I voice that through debate and with my vote. I say stand for principles and never compromise on them but we must conduct ourselves with greater dignity than a boo. The opportunity to petition the government and make changes is before us every day. I applaud the right to offer a dissenting opinion (and have done so many times myself) but I will never boo.

When we boo we disenfranchise many who want to participate but don’t understand the boos. One of the things that I choose to do is encourage more to participate (we need to reverse the level of apathy and compliancy we have in the public). If as a party we have just become an angry and frustrated people that participates little in the public debate, but then feels the need to boo and hiss, then we will not be the party of ideas and leaders for the future. We need full discussion (and my actions show I support full and vigorous debate) but let’s not let rudeness enter into the debate.

I agree with Jefferson (and other Founders) to warn our elected officials (so let’s lobby them and educate them through active participation) but I hope we are above booing. Tell me how booing protects our freedoms and I might change my mind but I think it is fair and honest discussion that leads to good public policies (policies that defend the constitution and protect the family) we need… and not booing.

We can and must do more to express our disagreement with government than boo. Booing closes doors of discussion and we need to close the accountability gap through increased discussion and participation.

4 Steps for Conservatives to achieve VICTORY

2010-02-23T15:14:00.000-08:00

America is at a crossroads… actions in Washington DC have many questioning if America is still the land of opportunity and prosperity. With President Obama in the White House and liberals in control of the House and Senate, the path for conservatives should seem clearer. Yet, the Republican Party is also at a crossroads; a resurgence of conservative voters and grassroots organizations has conservatives salivating in anticipation of new life and the possibility of returning to power, but not all this activity and energy is necessarily partisan at its core.

I believe that conservatives must take the following steps to prevail and capitalize on the momentum and ultimately achieve victory. Basically stated, Republican’s must show the American people that we are connected to our principles and as we stay connected to them, we will help return America to a land of opportunity and prosperity.

Currently conservatives are divided, fearful, and full of distrust…of each other and unfortunately of groups with similar goals. But the bottom line is the American people will not follow an angry, frustrated, and distrustful party. So what does the Republican Party need to do to unite conservatives and capture the momentum? First off, we must recruit, train and motivate our neighbors. I’m excited by the undercurrent of conservative, business-friendly discussion and attention. Many are active in recruiting and training their neighbors to get involved; this is a great trend and we need to accelerate this activity.

I believe some of the reasons we face serious challenges as a nation is voter complacency and apathy, and government corruption. When complacency and apathy are solved, or more actively addressed and reduced, then we’ll see less corruption in government. When I say corruption I’m talking more than just fraud and back-room deals. I’m also including the growth of government with its out-of-control spending (if this behavior were being committed by any other entity, public or private, it would be illegal). I’m talking the corruption of big government, which is best kept in check through greater citizen involvement.

Second, to reduce complacency and apathy, we need to bridge the gap between our leaders and the people. Conservatives we must lead out to bridge this accountability gap. But as we do we can expect some resistance. Thomas Jefferson said, “Timid men prefer the calm of despotism to the tempestuous sea of liberty.” Thankfully we have citizens not afraid. But as we encourage this bold action I ask, are we effective?

Third, conservatives must unite. The various grass-roots movements right now must unite or divided we fall. I believe as a conservative the GOP is the best vehicle to accomplish my goals to defend the Constitution and protect the family. So while the Republican Party may need to purge a bit and get back to our foundational principles (and I think for the most part this is happening) we need to make sure that the variety of grass-roots movements doesn’t take us off track.

Finally, stay connected to conservative principles. The proof is in the none-partisan but conservative nature of the frustrated voter. For example, the Scott Brown win in MA and the struggles of Charlie Crist in FL demonstrate that the candidate that demonstrates his connection with conservative principles will win, regardless of party. The voters are rejecting all officials/candidates regardless of party if they remain aloof and defend big government. So I suggest conservatives unite and help the Republican Party be the champion of the Founders. This is easier as we return to our core values, but conservatives can’t win if we are angry and distrustful. We will be the party of the future as we recruit, train and motivate others to get involved.

For the Republican Party to achieve victory we must follow V.I.C.T.O.R.Y.: The GOP has the right vision and message. We need to be more inclusive and communicate better. We must incorporate technology better to help us do both of these and we must do so in an open and transparent way. Relationships are critical to our success and these relationships, especially with the youth, must be based on relevant information, delivered in a timely and effective manner.

This is how as conservatives we can prevail and achieve victory; as we show the American people that we are connected to our principles and stay connected to them, we will help return America to a land of opportunity and prosperity.

Connection to People & Principles

2010-01-19T21:10:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that one year after Barak Obama defied conventional political wisdom and claimed victory and the White House that we would see liberals running for cover? Having beaten the Clinton machine and a Republican war hero and senior senator with a well-known independent appeal, we are now seeing every incumbent run from big government and the liberal agenda from the Obama White House and championed by Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi.

What is going on? Is this a partisan swing of historical proportion? Glenn Beck stated earlier today that a Scott Brown win in Massachusetts would begin the “death of the Democrat soul.” Many other political pundits have tried to explain how a state that has not voted for a state-wide Republican since the year I was born (1966) was on the verge of sending one to Washington. How could the environment swing so quickly from one year ago when Obama won by 26 points?

The answer is simple and the same one I use to explain why Utah has been voted again the best managed state in the nation. It’s called connection to people and connection to principles, not to party per se. Utah Republican leaders have been able to connect with voters in a way that demonstrates that they understand conservative principles…and as residents of Utah, we reap the benefits of this every day as we continue to lead the nation in economic development and job creation, to name a few leading indicators.

Connection to the voters and an acknowledgement on the part of the elected official that they understand who they represent and whose money they spend is the key to victory, or conversely, the recipe for defeat if you fail to make that connection. Now the rest of the nation, broadly speaking, understands this as individuals across the country seek to again get connected with their leaders; and with the principles this country was founded on. Defending conservative principles, tested by time and results, is now even popular in the bluest state in the nation, Massachusetts. Wow. To put this in perspective, a Utah equivalent might be if Sen. Hatch passed away and Mark Shurtleff was beat by State Sen. Luz Robles. Who, you say? My point exactly.

One article I read about the transformation in Massachusetts put it this way, “But the race narrowed considerably over the past week as Brown's populist message resonated with an angry and resentful electorate in an antiestablishment environment. He's energized Republicans as well as attracted disillusioned Democrats and independents worried about taxes, spending, government expansion and health care under Obama.” (Obama makes last-ditch attempt to save Senate seat by BETH FOUHY and LIZ SIDOTI).

Republicans should be pleased; Martha Coakley couldn’t convince voters to ignore her gaffs and her commitment to big government. The fact that this race turned so quickly is nothing short of a historic and motivational victory. Momentum is certainly on our side. But at its core, this is not a partisan victory.

The party that articulates their foundational principles and demonstrates best that they are committed to connecting with voters will win in 2010. Put another way, voters don’t appreciate being ignored or taken for granted; they want accountability from their leaders and an assurance that candidates and party know their place in the political hierarchy. Like Scott Brown said, “It’s the People’s Seat.” Any candidate with a history of a gap between them and the voters will lose and conversely, the candidate or party that helps close this gap will win and become the dominant party of the future. Brown mentioned tonight in his victory speech that on the campaign trail that he heard over and over again that “voters were tired that elected officials had grown aloof.”

Aloof describes Coakley to a T. She ran an elitist campaign and made little connection with the voters; her failed campaign showed this clearly. Brown on the other hand connected with people and they also felt his connection to his guiding principles. This gave them confidence that he would not become aloof. That’s all voters want – connection. Brown will close the gap between government and the voters. The reason Democrats will suffer under this tide is big government screams for a large gap to exist.

Locally, many municipal incumbents lost for this same reason. Their elitist attitude and failure to understand and connect with the voters sent them packing. So, will Republicans be the party that bridges the gap and connects with voters? Will incumbents rush to close this gap, where one exists? For some it may be too late. Deal makers, big spenders, and liberal over-achievers may already know their fate after tonight.

For me, I will fight for accountability, fiscal responsibility, and for defense of the Constitution and protection of the family. It is clear that what happened in MA can happen all over America – and I’m not sure that is a bad thing.

What does a free and strong America mean to you?

2009-06-11T21:56:00.000-07:00

Today I accepted the challenge from Mitt Romney's Free and Strong America PAC to write down in 250 or less "What does a free and strong America mean to you?"

I accepted this challenge and submitted these words:

The strength of America is in her founding principles and the devotion of her people. As a Constitutional-republic, America is a land governed by the people, for the people. As a citizen, I pledge my allegiance to our flag and to the republic for which it stands.

As inspired innovators, our Founders knew that freedom was worth fighting and dying for. They gave us a document that granted to all the ability to pursue happiness and secure prosperity through innovation and risk. But freedom requires more than just claiming we have a Constitution; freedom requires the adherence to it.

America will only remain strong if we remember that freedom requires the ability to pursue happiness through ambition, risk, and commerce. These tenants are under attack today by those who pursue narrow political gain. Rather, they should be celebrated by all freedom-loving individuals.I don’t question the devotion and patriotism of others, but I am concerned that our appreciation and understanding of the wise and innovative, and indeed risky, sacrifices of the Founders is being forgotten.

I speak of apathy, fiscal irresponsibility, selfishness, greed, corruption, accountability, the abandonment of personal responsibility, and the lack of respect for others including the Founding Fathers and the Constitution. Some blame a rush towards socialism; I blame a lack of understanding and devotion to the Constitution.

For America to remain strong, we must more fully appreciate and understand our founding principles and remain devoted to them.

D-Day reflections on liberty

2009-06-05T15:59:00.000-07:00

D-Day 2009

It is interesting to ponder what the U.S. and Europe would be like today if the brave American soldier didn’t face the barrage 65 years ago. From the rain and blood soaked beaches in Normandy, freedom has blossomed.

I am reminded of the poignant words offered by President Ronald Reagan 20 years ago at Point du Hoc. He began, “We’re here to mark that day in history when the Allied armies joined in battle to reclaim this continent to liberty… Here in Normandy the rescue began. Here the Allies stood and fought against tyranny in a giant undertaking unparalleled in human history.” Reagan continued, “Behind me is a memorial that symbolizes the Ranger daggers that were thrust into the top of these cliffs. And before me are the men who put them there. These are the boys of Pointe du Hoc. These are the men who took the cliffs. These are the champions who helped free a continent. These are the heroes who helped end a war… You all knew that some things are worth dying for. One’s country is worth dying for, and democracy is worth dying for, because it’s the most deeply honorable form of government ever devised by man. All of you loved liberty. All of you were willing to fight tyranny, and you knew the people of your countries were behind you.”

I love those words. I hope we all appreciate D-Day and the victory over tyranny and the fight for freedom that began that day. I also love D-Day because my daughter was born on this historic day 10 years ago. We named her Liberty. She is everything to me (Ok, that’s not true; I have 4 other children and a wonderful wife). My family is my life. So I am grateful for the boys of Point du Hoc. I am grateful for liberty. I wish I can be a hero for the cause of liberty.

I get very reflective on this day; in fact, maybe more so than on July 4 or Memorial Day. I think it was more than just freedom that was carved out of the sand and the rock and the blood along the beaches of Normandy. I think that the liberty and the freedom that was fought for has brought great prosperity. Prosperity and happiness is the dream of all who seek freedom.

But how does freedom look today? Freedom is more than just living under a democracy; freedom requires the ability to determine your future through ambition, risk, and commerce. These tenants of all free-loving societies are under attack today by those who pursue narrow political gain. These attacks are subtle and perhaps not as deadly to life but they are deadly to freedom and prosperity.

I speak of apathy, fiscal irresponsibility, selfishness, greed, corruption, the rush towards socialism, the abandonment of personal responsibility, and the lack of respect for others including the Founding Fathers and the Constitution.

How does liberty and freedom look for my daughter Liberty and for her children when:
· Dennis Cauchon, USA TODAY In all, government spending on benefits will top $2 trillion in 2009 — an average of $17,000 provided to each U.S. household, federal data show. Benefits rose at a 19% annual rate in the first quarter compared to the last three months of 2008.
· June 1 and June 2, 2009, editions of The Gartman Letter. Mr. Geithner is in Beijing this week to explain that further investment in the US is in China's best interest… outlining the benefits of investment in US Treasury securities…It is, instead, in China's interest to secure the raw materials it needs to foster further economic growth... Mr. Geithner's is a lonely and embarrassing job it seems. His "product," debt securities, have lost their luster, and the things he cannot sell… copper, steel, coal, wheat, soybeans, cotton, crude et al… have seen their luster enhanced. His is an embarrassing job at the moment.
· June 3 Bloomberg -- Federal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke said large U.S. budget deficits threaten financial stability and the government can’t continue indefinitely to borrow at the current rate to finance the shortfall. “Unless we demonstrate a strong commitment to fiscal sustainability in the longer term, we will have neither financial stability nor healthy economic growth,” Bernanke said in testimony to lawmakers today. “Maintaining the confidence of the financial markets requires that we, as a nation, begin planning now for the restoration of fiscal balance.”
· Benefits, such as Social Security, food stamps, unemployment insurance and health care, accounted for 16.2% of personal income in the first quarter of 2009, the Bureau of Economic Analysis reports. That's the highest percentage since the government began compiling records in 1929.

Where are modern-day champions who understand that some things are worth dying for? Freedom is worth dying for, and democracy is worth dying for. I invite all who love liberty to fight tyranny today, just like the men of Point du Hoc did 65 years ago.

Great News for Utah's Economy

2009-04-15T17:26:00.000-07:00

I’m not one to complain but I’m tired of winter; I’m tired of slow cars on Orem Blvd (the posted speed is 35); I’m tired of changing messy diapers; I’m tired of dropped calls; and I’m tired of waiting in line to eat at Iggy’s.

But what I’m most tired of is hearing economic doom and gloom.

I firmly believe that we hold the future of our economy and our country in our hands. I’m one who believes it ain’t all bad out there.

I recently heard Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert speak and he summed up my feelings when he said, “we often hear the phrase ‘this is the worst economy since the Great Depression’. This is like comparing a headache to a brain tumor. We don’t want to understate the current economic challenges, but we don’t want to overstate them either. Let us have an appropriate perspective, particularly here in Utah.”- Gary Herbert - Lieutenant Governor, State of Utah

The following highlights some of the good things about Utah and Utah Valley:

Home Foreclosures
Utah's foreclosure rate (1.4%) is less than half the national rate (2.9%). Utah homeownership rate is 4th highest in the nation. Four states (CA, FL, AZ, NV) account for approximately half of all foreclosures. During the Great Depression foreclosure rates neared 50%

Bank Failures
According to the FDIC, there have been a total of 28 bank failures in 2007 and 2008. In recession-free 1988-89, there were 1,004 failures. Since the Great Depression, the average number of bank failures per year has been 94.

Mortgage interest rates
Currently at 5% for 30 year fixed rate mortgages. Business mortgages have doubled because of low interest rates.

Housing
Bargains are bringing buyers back to the market. The number of existing homes sold in February rose 13% from the previous month. In the West homes sales surged 13.6%.

GOED
The Governor’s Office of Economic Development has more than 120 companies in active discussions with the state about moving or expanding in Utah.

Utah Exports
International exports from Utah during the first three quarters of 2008 was $8.1 billion. Over 50% higher than the value during the same period last year. This rate of growth ranks 4th among all states.

Unemployment
4.3% Utah (U.S. 7.2%) –Dec. 2008. During the Great Depression unemployment was 25%

More Great News
1. Utah unjoys a AAA Bonding Rating. This rating saves taxpayers money on interest costs.
2. Utah Best Managed State—Pew Research Institute
3. Provo ranked #1 as Money Magazine Best Small Cities in 2008
4. Year-over job change in Utah was –1.9% in December 2008
5. Energy and Natural Resources had 7.2% positive growth in December and has potential for continued growth.
6. Population in Utah continues to grow. Utah's population was an estimated 2,757,779 on July 1, 2008 - up 58,225 or 2.2% from July 1, 2007. Net in-migration in 2008 was 16,648, or about 29% of total population growth.
7. Mineral Lease Money has increased by 109% since 2005
8. Tourism at Zions National Park hit 2.7 million in 2008, setting a new record for Zions.

I love Utah.

Great ideas give birth to even greater things in the future

2009-04-06T20:49:00.000-07:00

As the CEO of the Utah County Association of REALTORS® it was my honor to welcome the public, elected officials, and fellow REALTORS® to our new building Open House and Ribbon Cutting on Friday April 3. It was a great success. It was fun as many past presidents came forward as we enjoyed the slide show with all their photos and a note of what they were able to contribute during their term as President.

We opened this beautiful new facility because these leaders and others from the past recognized that sometimes great ideas are expensive…but they give birth to even greater things in the future.

Sure the timing of building turned out to be difficult because admittedly we face some challenges; both in terms of the larger economy and our specific industry. However, out of adversity emerges enormous abundance. But this can only be achieved when we seek to move from good to great and work together.

If you want to be great, then walk hand in hand with greatness. Who are you going to spend time with? Will it be those who can help you grow and achieve prosperity? Your behavior determines your result.

So here we are, the Utah County Association of REALTORS® moving into a new building that stands as a strong symbol of us yelling at the top of our lungs that we want to be great. Yes, we are reaping the benefits of those who have gone before us and now we pledge to pass on to others an even brighter future as we work hard and work together.

As I was preparing my remarks I was reminded of words I heard from a remarkable man named Nido Qubein, who gave me this advice, “It is a fact of life that what you choose is what you get. I want each of you to ask what do I need to put on my stop doing list, so I can become even better.” He continued, “As individuals, we reach for excellence in our business as we try to model success through best practices etc. but should we not try to model values and then when success comes we are better prepared to treat others as friends and not simply as customers. We should focus on the person and not the process.”

I agree. Our new building is nothing if we do not use it to treat others better. As the staff of UCAR, we hope to continue and even improve how we serve. With this investment I believe we are prepared to do just that. But each of us should use the tools around us to treat others better. This building is a tool for us as an association. But I ask you, how are you using the tools around you?

Start of something great

2009-04-02T13:17:00.000-07:00

It is amazing the feeling I had yesterday when I opened the box containing my new laptop. It is almost like getting a new car. I now feel greater independence, freedom, and increased confidence to start something great and make it in the world.

I probably sound like a teenager; but I am almost 43 years old. Age doesn’t matter. Wheels move people and my new computer is my new vehicle. It even has that new-car smell.

Where am I going in my new vehicle? Anywhere I want but for starters I want to go up. I want to speed forward to reach higher and accomplish more. I want to lift myself, others around me, and especially those in my family. I want to improve myself and increase my productivity. I know this new tool will help me manage multiple projects and squeeze more out of each day. All of this and more is now within my reach.

I'm no computer genius -- this is my first laptop -- so it may take weeks and even months for me to become proficient. But for me getting a new computer isn’t about staying up with the latest technology. But I am the CEO of a small real estate/business association so I am busy and can use my new HP to better manage my life, instead of my life managing me. With greater efficiencies and increased effectiveness, I will try harder to serve others and treat people like people and not like projects or tasks.

Isn't that what should move a business anyway; creating value as we treat others with respect and seek to serve? When we do this then we gain friends and not just customers.

Wow. That is quite the swing; I went from opening the box with my new HP, to gaining friends and making the world a better place. What took me so long? I think I'll buy one for my wife.