sign of hope for Utah Dems?

Courtesy of the Salt Lake Tribune and Pat Bagley

A Sunday or two ago, the LDS church asked that a statement be read at the wardhouses and stake centers in advance of the precinct meetings political parties would be holding. The statement said that the doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints could be found in both political parties. This is what Wayne Owens has always said, that the Democratic belief in helping the less fortunate is compatable with LDS teachings.

As a result, the turn out in various ultra-red areas for Democratic precincts was suprisingly strong. This prompted a KUER radio show on whether Democrats have a shot of legitimacy now and why the tie between the GOP and LDS church seems so strong.

I sure hope that the tie between the parties can end and Mormons everywhere will not feel compelled or pressured to be a Republican. There are some aspects of each party that should find appeal to LDS church goers, just like it does for Catholics or Jews or many other major religious groups.

This year Democrats in Utah may do a bit better, but I am not expecting much. I would like to have the power to block stuff in the State Senate so the GOP leadership would at least consult and listen to Democrats. By 2012, I am hoping to have 1 safe Democratic seat, 1 toss up and 2 solid GOP seats. Oh and whenever Hatch or Bennett retire, I would like Jim Matheson to run for the vacant seat. Utah Democrats are a practical bunch.