39 Responses to:
I DON'T YET GET MIKE LEE

# 1. 1/7/10 12:31 AM
If it wasn't for Joseph Kennedy whose sons politics was a birthrate do to birth I doubt we would of heard of John, Robert or Ted. Family got them there power.

On another ineresting note Jeffrey R Holland was President of BYU and his son is President at Utah Valley. Wonder if connections made that happen. I know many people in leadership positions in the LDS church on a local level that are brothers and sons and son in laws of apostles.

I know of a 26 year old women that is director of satelite campus of a community college. Her Dad is President of the college. So many times your heritage gives you an advantage in some things.

# 2. 1/7/10 12:37 AM by DaWiz - San Antonio
Hey Bob, how about a modified term limits system? For the House, 6 2-year terms. For the Senate 2 6-year terms. They would then have to vacate their seat for 6 years and then they would be allowed to run for Congress again, if the voters can stand them. While were are making this change we eliminate the Congressional retirement program for anyone who fails to serve a minimum of 20 years in Congress. (This would apply retroactively to retired members) Members of Congress who make it to 20 years would be eligible for a pension of 50% of their ending salary, increasing 2.5% per year over 20 to a maximum of 75% at the 30 year point. Their medical benefits would be provided by TriCare, the same provider used by the U.S. Military. Final restrictions would be that they must have lived for a minimum 5 years in the district/state they represent before running for office. No convicted felons may run for Congress. Also, a lifetime ban on former members of Congress from working as lobbyists.

# 3. 1/7/10 12:57 AM by SGM - Utah
I've had the same questions and appreciate your answers and insight about Mike Lee. I wondered....is he the son of Rex Lee? If so, he certainly has the heritage. But when I read of his need for constitutional amendments I wondered what they were. I'm all for term limits and balanced budgets. I wonder at times if the Founder's foresaw the absolute corruption of our political system by those who have been trusted with so much.

From what you've written I see an intellectual running for the Senate rather than a realist. An intellectual who makes a living as a lawyer. A dangerous trade/vocation.

Like you, the jury is out on who I will support. I've become a real pessimist. I'm not even sure of your praise for Chaffetz and he's only in his first term. Perhaps his last. We'll see.

I've listened to too many lawyer jokes to be able to make a sound judgement. I keep hearing, "How can you tell when a lawyer is telling a lie?" Answer, his lips are moving.

# 4. 1/7/10 1:53 AM by W Ross - Provo, UT
I fail to see why you would be against term limits for members of congress. The presidency got term limits... when became frightened of Roosevelt. Three terms would work for members. Time to get their feet on the ground by not enough time to get themselves entrenched so that they can't be dislodged even with a stick of dynamite. Sure, we can vote them out but how often are the people willing to can big fat money grabbing pigs like the late Teddy Kennedy?

What's wrong with a debt amendment? What I would like to see is something along the lines that would require getting out of debt at least once each decade.

# 5. 1/7/10 1:56 AM by Cathy Robertson - Murray UT
Bob,

I listen to you every morning. I am a Democrat/Independent. I find myself agreeing with you on many issues and a polar opposite on others. However after 2 years I respect your take on life, religion and community. By the way "young Lee" is doing a great job. My only concern is that since you guys switched to 105.7 FM your signal is really bad. You used to come in clear and strong but static is a a real irritant. What can be done? It effects all programming randomly not just yours.

PS I am not LDS - but your testimonies are wonderful for any faith.

Editor's Note: i'm sorry about the signal difficulty. it kills me. i apologize.

# 6. 1/7/10 3:41 AM by Arthur
Was the rich guy you were thinking of one Fred Lampropoulus (sp) by chance? What would you think of a Moloni Hola candidacy, or if you can stand it, Merrill Cook? That guy will be running for office even when he is pushing up topsoil from six feet under.

PS, is that Carl Wimmer related to channel five news anchor Nadine "Deenie" Wimmer? I'm not sure either as to what I make of Mike Lee. I wish voters as a rule could know more about candidates before it is time to commit our votes. An example would be the would-be "cabinetry" of Presidential candidates. Knowing who they would be interested in as running mates would give me lots of clues as to their policy, people skills, priorities and policies. That would be a step up from voting based only on partial knowledge. And if I had my druthers, I would have the voters elect the various cabinet posts by a popular vote. I think knowing that they were selected by the people would add an element of accountability and some pressure to perform on the job and communicate and cooperate with each other.

# 7. 1/7/10 6:36 AM by Rick C. - Rochester,NY
Hey Bob!!!! I was not aware that you have a Lieutenant General,Admiral and a Commandant in your family. Congratulations!

Editor's Note: uh, rick c., that's FLEET admiral. the folks are pictured at www.fubowear.com

# 8. 1/7/10 7:01 AM by Mike R. - Livonia, NY
Heeeeeeyyyyyy Bob,

The point with term limits is that people seem to be getting to the point where they don't like, as a class of people, professional politicians. Maybe they like their particular Congressman/woman or Legislator or whoever, but the latest ratings for Congress says that, overall, we don't like that group of people and what they are doing.

The "devil" we know may be okay with us but it seems that people would like to know if they could get rid of their "devil(s)" and prevent politicians from spending their whole lives interfering in our lives from the halls of Congress. It's too easy to reelect the one already in office. It's almost like we're afraid that their lives would be over if they weren't sent back to DC. Then, before you know it, they are too powerful, too arrogant yet too sacred to boot out of office.

Sure we'd get rid of some good ones too. But, if they are good at whatever they do, I'm sure it's not like they'd be on the unemployment line for long.

His idea has some merit.

And maybe then we'd get some real people, other than the never-ending stream of lawyers, running for national office.

Me? I'm waiting for the guy who proposes the amendment - The Congress shall make no law prohibiting or restricting the People's right to keep and bear firearms.

Keep writing.

# 9. 1/7/10 7:58 AM by Rational Rod - CANADA
Good point, Bob.If it hadn"t been for his father (and grandfather) would you have heard of George W? And a related comment - I was wondering after following your column and the responses why there is so much railing against political correctness but no virtually no resistance to political ignorance and stupidity. Just asking. Peace.

Editor's Note: i, in fact, wrote more than once that without famous fathers, george w., and probably mitt romney, would be absolute nobodies. romney would have a good job, bush would be the third insurance man in a smalltown somewhere.

# 10. 1/7/10 7:59 AM by Bubba - Baltimore, MD
The constitution needs a term limit similar to the one Virgina has to limit the Governor from seeking reelection while in office.

(1) No individual shall be eligible to pursue elected office while occupying elected office or a federal appointment.

# 11. 1/7/10 8:34 AM by Molly
Any hope that Patterson is sincere, and that Albany can, in fact, be cleaned up and New York can be a vibrant state that isn't bleeding its citizens dry?

Editor's Note: none

# 12. 1/7/10 8:37 AM
Re. your poll, I'm not a fan of the Simpson's however I am pretty psyched that 24 is starting on the 17th! Can't wait!

# 13. 1/7/10 9:10 AM by T-man - Logan Utah
I wonder if it is just coincidence that both Bennett and Lee are speaking tonight in Logan - same time, different locations. I've heard enough from Bob, so I will see what Mike has to say. Any question I could ask for you?

# 14. 1/7/10 9:26 AM by Floyd R. Turbo
but no virtually no resistance to political ignorance and stupidity

Because even you deserve a chance to be heard.

Peace==Surrender

# 15. 1/7/10 9:29 AM by Floyd R. turbo
Bob:

With the "retirement" of Senator Dodd, who is the most corrupt member of the Senate?

For that matter, with Dorgan's departure, who has the best comb over?

# 16. 1/7/10 9:41 AM by Zzyzx - Sandy UT
Neither of us can actually know what the Founders were thinking, but I honestly believe they'd be appalled to see life-time 'professional' congressmen and women who are there primarily for the perks and the prestige -- not to humbly serve their constituents.

Actually most of the founders could hardly wait to get back to private life, but they felt a sincere obligation to serve their country. Now, too many politicians are in office because it's their profession; they have no private sector income and they seek to grab every goodie they can for themselves and their own...nepotism at it's peak.

Bob Bennet has already been very negative in his campaigning, boasting that Lee will soon discover that it is 'a full-time job' to run for senator. That's a huge part of the problem. It should be a full-time job to serve the people, not to seek re-election, yet incumbents have a gigantic advantage, especially at a national level.

Personally I think the founding fathers would agree that under today's circumstances, term limits are the best and only way to get rid of the graft and corruption that currently infects Washington. Too many voters lack the knowledge or the courage to throw the bums out because seniority = powerful committee seats. Too many egotists seek public service as a gigantic gravy train and fawn-fest. They think they're rock stars.

Two terms in the house, two terms in the senate, then back to public life, w/o life-long perks and privileges.

How about a Congress comprised of people who really want to help this country, not those seeking power and adoration?

Editor's Note: i think the founders wrote at length to explain what they were thinking, and they acted and legislated in their later lives. ever read the federalist papers?

# 17. 1/7/10 9:51 AM by drawlr - slc, ut
If someone wants to do something significant to the Constitution, he should push to return it more to its original state by advocating the repeal of the 16th and 17th Amendments. Reducing the federal government's income by repealing the income tax would go a long way to forcing Congress to scale back its (nefarious) operations. (Plus, it would be big boost to the economy by putting more money in the hands of the people.) Returning senators to the control of state legislatures would also do a lot to make sure that senators did the bidding of their constituents and not those of special interests and lobbyists. The way it is, senators are beholding to no one between elections. Without a 17th Amendment, senators could be replaced at any time by their state legislatures if they weren't doing what they were told. Repealing the 17th Amendment wouldn't be a cure-all because there is corruption at any level of government, but it would be a step in the right direction.

# 18. 1/7/10 11:08 AM by Chris Cromar - South Jordan
Specifically addressing the "Term Limits" advocates: The founders did explain what they meant when they wrote the Constitution. Term Limits were enacted within the document itself. It was the fiddling around later with amendments and by allowing each Branch usurp powers not granted that have gotten us where we are today. By the way, a lot of this happened during a time that term limits have been imposed upon the seated President.

For the Senators it is 6 years per term, the President - 4 years, House of Representatives 2 years. To stay there a little longer requires a new election.

At the time the Constitution was written Senators were appointed by the State Legislators in order to better insure that the Popular Voice (represented in the House), would not overwhelm the rights and resources of the State and its citizens.

Those clambering for term limits basically are saying that they want no such responsibility put upon their shoulders to judge the character, motives, and actions of those they elected. If they think that imposing a "new" form of term limit will take care of the problems we are experiencing today you are out right blooming fools.

There is a reason why Jason Chaffetz was able to unseat an entrenched incumbent and it was because we have a "term limit" of 2 years on that office and the citizens of his district got fed up with having someone in that elected chair who thought it was just fine to allow open boarders and a lap-dog willing to do George Bush II's every bidding.

This "new form" of term limits being proposed by Mr. Lee and so many others are wrong about the consequences that would follow. The money and power that our Congress, President, and Judiciary have usurped unto itself is what needs to be wrested back to the people by the people. Failure to do so guarantees only one thing; more corruption and power…and more quickly than it did with our current “term limit” system.

I have to hand it to Representative Chaffetz, he's done an amazing job...so far. But don't think I'm ever going to stop being vigilant in watching what he does. I truly respect his ability to resist the temptation to jump in and fill the Senatorial slot. I’d dearly love to see him there, but it tells me more about the character of the man than ever before.

There are many good men and women who are of sound Constitutional understanding that might consider running for that Senatorial seat, but I haven't seen them tossing any hats into the ring yet.

# 19. 1/7/10 1:06 PM by dick - north greece
I don't know anything about Utah politics, but I've gotta say that the very fact that this Lee fella hasn't held public office before makes me want to stand up and cheer!

I'm just an ordinary American who wants a better life for my kids & grandkids, and I'm frustrated as hell about the direction this nation of our's is headed.

The current cast of elected officials that are supposed to represent us ARE NOT DOING THEIR FREAKING JOB ! GET RID OF ALL OF THEM !!! ALL OF THEM !!!

I don't care what side of the aisle they're on. These long-term, career politicians need to be ousted. They're not serving us, they're serving themselves. It's a big money grab, and all about insider tips and power wielding.

My point is that yes there should be term limits, and that maybe electing a knowledgeable, thoughtful individual with no political experience would be a breath of fresh air.

# 20. 1/7/10 1:33 PM by m. geib - Pittsford NY
We chuckled at your comments about the difference between Tenn. and NY states. Interestingly, you will find that the gov. of TN, Phil Bredeson, was born and raised in Shortsville NY. We should export more New Yorkers to other states to help them out!

Editor's Note: shortsville? the shortsville by manchester? holy cats. that's outstanding.

# 21. 1/7/10 2:28 PM by Linda - Salt Lake City, Utah
You know I think Cherilyn Eagar is a pretty darned good conservative, from the things I have heard her say and the accomplishments she has. Your readers/listeners in Utah should check her out.

I have a vague recollection? of you commenting in a non-positive way about her once, but I can't be sure. Anyway, how about giving her the same space and airtime?

Editor's Note: she's as dumb as a rock. it would not be good for the eagar campaign if i wrote a column about her.

# 22. 1/7/10 2:31 PM by Debby - Salt Lake City, Ut
Bob, I've felt that you've always been fair and open minded about most things. Why after reading your articles twice now - the first one was on Mark Shurtleff and now today's article on Mike Lee have you not mentioned another canidate - Cherilyn Eager. I have attended Constitution Classes at the Thomas Jefferson Academy where Cherilyn Eager appeared and talked to the class. Dr. Kimber has talked to her several times and she seems more then qualified to do a honest, truthful job, plus she is humble enough to think that she doesn't know everything and is still willing to learn and make sure she is standing according to what the constitution means. Maybe people should cast a look and vote in her direction instead of second guessing and voting for the unknown horse - which is what has gotten us into this mess.

Editor's Note: see note above.

# 23. 1/7/10 2:38 PM by Linda - Salt Lake City, UT
Sorry, I guess another thought just occurred to me. If Mike Lee truly wouldn't/won't come out in absolute opposition to "eminent domain" and side with the founders in protecting our property - it seems the choice should be clear!

Editor's Note: yeah, bennett's prospects get brighter by the day.

# 24. 1/7/10 2:42 PM by John - Chicago
Great column. I disagree with much in the column. However, I agree... we need less wonkish politicians. I dont care who they are related too... how old they are... how much money they have... where they went to school... but please - stand for something.

# 25. 1/7/10 3:16 PM by Rick C. - Rochester,NY 14610
Can you say Senator Ed Schultz Democrat from The State of North Dakota? I can! I am hoping that he will follow in the footsteps of Senator Al Franken Democrat from MN. If he desides to run I am sure that he would WIN.

Editor's Note: delusions of grandeur is a terrible disease, huh?

# 26. 1/7/10 3:40 PM by Right Wing Extremist - Utahrrr
I agree one-hundred percent on your assessment of Utah parent-child politics. It sucks big time. I hate it with a passion.

I disagree with you on term limits. Yes, we can try to vote out our own turds, but what about bozos like Kennedy, Robert Byrd, Chris Dodd, Barney Frank...idiots from idiot states the will never unseat those mental defectives unless they croak or walk away on their own.

And...you will be on your knees, thanking heaven for term limits should this country enact an amnesty law, allowing dems to re-up another term for Barry Insane Obumhole.

# 27. 1/7/10 3:41 PM by Cami - slc, utah
Doesn't the fed go against the constitution created under a republican president William Taft in 1910???? ARTICLE 1, SECTION 8 OF THE CONSTITUTION STATES THAT CONGRESS SHALL HAVE THE POWER TO COIN (CREATE) MONEY AND REGULATE THE VALUE THEREOF. IN 1935 THE SUPREME COURT RULED THAT CONGRESS CANNOT CONSTITUTIONALLY DELEGATE ITS POWER TO ANOTHER GROUP. (Reference 22, P. 168)

# 28. 1/7/10 3:56 PM
Don't know what I'm going to do about this race either. Fortunately there's still time to decide, but unfortunately there's also still time for the candidates to perfect their talking points. I'm afraid that the past and present are the reality rather than the next several months.

# 29. 1/7/10 4:04 PM by Rick C. - Rochester,NY 14610
Ed Schultz would Eat Your Lunch in a One on One Debate.

# 30. 1/7/10 4:09 PM
Wait - you have family members in Star Fleet?

# 31. 1/7/10 5:16 PM by Raylyn - Salt Lake City
"Dumb as a rock"? Are you serious? Can you give a response with a little more substance for those of us who are kind of leaning towards Cherilyn Eagar...so we don't just think that you are one of those guys who think women belong in the kitchen in front of a hot griddle? Seriously, I would really like to know specifics on why you don't like her.

Editor's Note: the eagar campaign's talking point on criticism is that anyone who dislikes their candidate is a sexist and misogynist. that's the same as liberals saying that anyone who disagrees with obama is a racist. one more reason why i am certain eagar is out of her league.

# 32. 1/7/10 6:50 PM by Silver Spoon Upchucker - Not Quite figured Utah out tho I was born here
Please God, not another nutter butter sandwich Silver Spoon cookie in a suit!

For the luvva Pete! NOOOOO!

Fellow unique Utah'ns ...please dont get emotionally caught up in sons of fine upstanding Utah icons!

Gag !

# 33. 1/7/10 7:08 PM by Puscifer - Utardia
Editor's Note: she's as dumb as a rock. it would not be good for the eagar campaign if i wrote a column about her.

Editor's Note: delusions of grandeur is a terrible disease, huh?

Yes. Yes they are.

# 34. 1/8/10 10:43 AM by David - Bountiful, Utah
It's fine that you are not yet sold on Mike but I have to say that your reservations seem pretty hollow.

You think it incongruous that he can love the Constitution and yet believe it needed to be amended. You forget that the ink was barely dry on the Constitution before the leaders of the new nation added 10 amendments to it. Even if they hadn't, the founders did not create a way to amend the Constitution simply as window-dressing. They knew that it would need alteration over time and proposing to do it in the way they specified shows respect for the document - not disrespect.

You also question the need for a term limits amendment and yet int he next breath you worry that Mike Lee might be the next Bennett or Hatch - asking for a term or two to begin with and then coming back to seek a fourth term (or seventh in Hatch's case). So which is it, do incumbents have a built in advantage that deserves to be addressed through the proper channels or is electing Mike Lee at 38 nothing to worry about?

Sounds to me like the only candidates you have not already ruled out are Mike Lee and Bob Bennett - and you already know what you think of Bennett - so I guess you need to just learn more about Mike and decide whether he's the right guy to replace Bennett.

Editor's Note: i am increasingly certain that he is not the guy to replace bennett. if my back was against the wall, there are more arguments in favor of bennett than there are in favor of lee -- and i've been bennett's loudest public critic. i'm hoping rob bishop surprises us, or eagar grows a brain, or the democrats find somebody who's worthwhile, or bennett comes down off his high horse. increasingly, i don't see a happy ending for this election. it may turn out that the best option is the status quo. i end up, actually, pretty disappointed that shurtleff and chaffetz weren't in it. oh well. but i'm increasingly feeling that the last thing utah needs is another silver-spoon golden boy.

# 35. 1/8/10 4:57 PM by arc
I don't get Mike Lee,

Just a note: Jason Chaffetz said he wasn't endorsing any in the US Senate 2010 (Utah) race at this time. It is very possible he won't until we have a nominee, he did say at his press release he was keeping his powder dry.

So if you were thinking Lee has his endorsement, he doesn't.

Jason Chaffetz's 2008 Campaign manager is not helping any of the candidates, but was later higher to work for Jason. Jennifer Scott.

His current campaign manager is staying away from this race.

Jason Chaffetz has supporters that are helping both several candidate including Eagar, Lee, Bridgewater and Williams.

Editor's Note: the chaffetz operation is behind mike lee. the reason he's not endorsing him is because he doesn't want to run afoul of bennett, and because it might be considered rude or ingracious.

# 36. 1/10/10 2:23 AM by Robert - Salt Lake, UT
I am with you. It bothers me that he worked behind the scenes as long as he did before openly campaiging. It makes it look like he is trying to avoid his constituents. This concern may have been put aside when he started running but if you want to go to a campaign event you have to go to his website and click RSVP I did and it said sorry we don't have room for you. I have gone to events for all the other candidates and never had to ask permission from the campaign to go. I don't like that. If he is not open to public opinion now what will he be like after he is elected? I don't know him but my feeling is he doesn't care what we think he wants power.

# 37. 1/12/10 4:30 AM by Kevin Kleinman - Highland, UT. 84003
I believe you are seeing the fog that is still surrounding Mr Lee. I hope it burns off. Secondly, could you write a column about the dastardly things our "Wizard of Oz" (Bobby Bennett) has done behind the curtins back in the "Mother Land" Washington D.C. Thank you very much. P.S. you are good, I can see it and feel it but can't always put words to it. I come to your site and by golly, I wait a few seconds, and pop, bang, fizz, you spirt it out for us to read all clear and just like our dad could tell us. I know it's a gift.

# 38. 1/14/10 2:27 PM by Travis - Riverton, UT
I don't know if I should thank you for this post or begrudge you for it.

I wanted to support Mike Lee. I love the soldier's mom and I trust her opinion. So, I was excited when I heard the prospect about Mike Lee. But I was keeping my cards close until I met him.

I had a special privileged of attending a smaller than most meeting with Mike Lee. I can't say that he would remember me, but there were only about 10 of us (beside Lee and Campaign Staff) who were in the meeting. And just about everything you said in this column reflects my thoughts about the meeting.

Your saying it here has helped me to decide that Mike Lee is not my candidate. Thus, I don't know if I should thank you or begrudge you. I might reluctantly vote for Lee, if circumstances lend itself to it, but I can't do much more for him than that.

# 39. 1/14/10 5:23 PM by Wendy - Highland, UT
Senator Bennett took an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. On multiple occasions, he has not done this. Therefore, I believe that anyone else who has a willingness to take this oath and to try to actually fulfill it is heads and tails above the incumbent. You are welcome to your concerns about Mike Lee. However, it doesn't, in any way, compromise his integrity the way that Bennett has done by not fulfilling his oath of office.

Would you like to:
add your own comment? or send this story to a friend?