THE DEEPER DIVE:

• ⚖️ Utah Supreme Court Justice Diana Hagen has been accused of an inappropriate relationship with an attorney who argued the Prop 4 redistricting case before the court. Governor Spencer Cox and legislative leadership are moving forward with an independent investigation into the matter, but Justice Hagen has denied any wrongdoing. We evaluate what impact this could have on the public's trust in the process.
• Utah Rep. Trevor Lee (R-Layton) is facing accusations of past impropriety regarding his actions in a former job that involved check fraud. This news dropped just days before Lee faces a challenger at the Davis County Republican Convention. Our panel examines waht this could mean for his future in the Utah Legislature.
• The Democratic race for Utah's 1st Congressional District is heating up. This week, a national political news website published numerous controversial posts published by Sen. Nate Blouin (D-Millcreek) several years ago. Blouin quickly apologized for the offensive comments, but calls for him to drop out of the race came from many members of his own party. We discuss Blouin's response and why some Democrats are still supporting his candidacy.
• ️ In the Republican race for Utah's 2nd Congressional District, incumbent Blake Moore is facing stiff competition from State Rep. Karianne Lisonbee. She has recently stated that Moore's past support for independent redistricting should be reason enough for voters to not send him back to Washington. Our panel evaluates what impact this will have on the race.
• Controversy over Utah Valley University's scheduled commencement speaker has resulted in the school decidiing to have no speaker at all. Social media influencer Sharon McMahon, also known as "America's Government Teacher", had been selected by the shool to speak to graduates, but some students were upset over comments McMahon made in the wake of the Charlie Kirk assassination at UVU. The university eventually decided that out of safety concerns, there would be no speaker.

️ FEATURING:
• Heidi Hatch – KUTV 2News
• Marty Carpenter – Partner, Northboudn Strategy
• Daniel Woodruff – Reporter, KSL

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:

• ️ A change to Utah law regarding voter registration information is making headlines this week. Lieutenant Governor Deidre Henderson sent letters to the approximately 300,000 voters who will be impacted. Previously, Utah voters could choose to keep their voter registration data private, but the state legislature passed a bill in the most recent legislative session requiring that voters apply for an exemption. Our panel evaluates how this could change the dynamics of elections in the Beehive State moving forward.
• ⚖️ That change comes amid a legal fight between Utah and the federal government over the state's voter rolls. The Trump administration wants Utah to hand over all voter registrations, including sensitive data like social security numbers. But the Lieutenant Governor has refused, citing state law that would prevent her from doing so. We look at arguments on both side of the debate.
• Campaigning for Utah's four congressional seats is kicking into high gear. The Republican and Democratic parties will both hold their nominating conventions at the end of the month, and several candidates have already qualified for the primary ballot through signature gathering. We discuss the unique intra-party challengers facing incumbents this year.
• Pres. Donald Trump has earmarked $1 billion in his proposed budget for the next fiscal year to help save the Great Salt Lake. But that doesn't mean the funding will actually be approved. Our panel examines the politics that could keep it from passing, and how Utah managed to get to this point.

️ FEATURING:
• McKenzie Romero – Editor, Utah News Dispatch
• Brigham Tomco – Reporter, Deseret News
• Sean Higgins – Reporter, KUER News

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:

• Pres. Donald Trump signed an executive order that would require states to use a federally created "Citizenship List" to compile a roll of eligible voters. That list would also impact state's that utilize vote-by-mail. Utah Lieutenant Governor Deidre Henderson quickly pushed back. Our panel examines the constitutional questions at the center of this debate, and what the Trump administration is threatening if states don't comply.
• ️ This week the deadline passed for Utah voters to change their political party affiliation ahead of the primary election in June. In Salt Lake County, the number of registered Democrats did increase, leading to questions about whether the state's new Congressional map had any impact on the shift.
• ❌ The citizen initiative aiming to repeal Utah's independent redistricting law has officially failed to qualify for the ballot. Organizers had originally submitted enough signatures, but enough voters requested to have their signatures removed, leading to the initiative falling below required thresholds. We discuss where the fight over Prop 4 could go from here.

️ FEATURING:
• Leah Murray – Director, Walker Center for Politics and Public Service at Weber State University
• Robert Gehrke – Reporter, The Salt Lake Tribune
• Max Roth – Anchor, Fox 13 News

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:

• ️ Southern Utah is growing fast, and local leaders are working to balance that growth in community character, housing needs, and quality of life.
• From water conservation to billion-dollar infrastructure investments, the region is planning ahead to make sure growth is sustainable in one of Utah's driest areas.
• ️ The economy is shifting beyond tourism with healthcare, construction, technology, and education playing an increasing role in southern Utah's future.
• Transportation, land use, and federal land restrictions add unique challenges for the area, but also highlight the complexity of building in this part of the state.
• As population and economic importance rise, the region's influence is growing at the Utah Capitol and in Washington D.C., shaping policy decisions statewide and beyond.

️ FEATURING:
• Christa Hinton – Santa Clara City Council
• Zach Renstrom – General Manager, Washington County Water Conservancy District
• Mary Weaver Bennett – Director, Leavitt Center for Politics and Public Service at Southern Utah University
• Brad Last – Former Member of the Utah House of Representatives and Special Assistant to the President of Utah Tech University for Community and Government Relations

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:

• ✍️ Governor Spencer Cox is now in the process of reviewing all the bills passed during the legislative session. Will there be any vetoes? Our expert panel discusses how the executive branch engages with the lawmaking process.
• ️ Both Republicans and Democrats held neighborhood caucus meetings this week to elect precinct chairs and delegates to county and state party conventions.These meetings appear to have had renewed energy for the members of at least one political party. We evaluate what people on the ground experienced.
• ️ With the candidate filing period closed for Utah's four congressional seats, campaigning is now in full swing on both sides of the political aisle. Every incumbent is facig an intra-party challenger, and the field is especially large in the Democratic race for the state's newly drawn 1st congressional district.
• Efforts to pass the SAVE America Act on the federal level have Utah politics in the national spotlight. The effort is backed by Sen. Mike Lee, yet Lt. Governor Deidre Henderson has publicly pushed back on the rhetoric being used by meembers of her own party. We examine why Pres. Donald Trump is pushing for the law so strongly and how it could impact the Beehive State.
• This last week, the federal government purchased a warehouse in Salt Lake City for a potential ICE detention facility. Mayors Erin Mendenhall and Jenny Wilson have both spoken against the pruchase. While Gov. Cox is supportive of establishing an ICE facility of some kind in Utah, he says no one in his administration had any advance knowledge of this purchase.

️ FEATURING:
• Ben Winslow – Reporter, Fox 13 News
• Amelia Powers Gardner – (R) Utah County Commission
• Wesley Smith – Partner, Northbound Strategy

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:

• With public trust in institutions near all-time lows, Utah’s higher education system is in the midst of a course correction. We examine how schools are renewing their focus on value, transparency, public accountability, and student success.
• As some question the value of a college degree, Utah’s higher education institutions are working to ensure a return on investment for students. Our panel discusses the ways schools are ensuring degrees and certificates lead to real career and economic opportunities.
• The 16 publicly funded colleges and universities in Utah are working to improve collaboration across the system by streamlining programs, reducing duplication, and creating clearer pathways between technical colleges and four-year university programs.
• This year, the Utah legislature pledged a historic $50 million investment in university research. We explore how this money will support innovation, industry partnerships, economic growth, and hands-on student experience across the state.
• As artificial intelligence continues disrupting industries across the world, higher education is no exception. Our panel evaluates the efforts to reshape classroom learning, enhance university operations, and prepare students for an AI-powered workforce.

️ FEATURING:
• Commissioner Geoff Landward – Utah System of Higher Education
• Representative Karen Peterson – (R-Clinton, House Vice Rules Chair)
• President Brad Mortensen – Utah State University

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:

• On the final day of the legislative session, a record number of bills have been filed, but does that mean lawmakers will approve a record number of new laws? Our panel discusses whether we achieve better policy with fewer bills. And will there ever be an appetite to limit the number?
• ⚠️ This year, more than 400 bills had substitute language inserted at some point in the legislative process. We examine how this affects legislation and whether this leads to a lack of transparency in the law-making process.
• ⛽ Occassionally bills are killed in a committee hearing and eventually come back later in the session and end up passing. That's what happened this year with a proposed cut to Utah's tax on gasonline. How did it change? And what is the net benefit to Utahns?
• Several proposed bills this year would have impacted immigration, including one from Rep. Trevor Lee (R-Layton) that didn't pass a legislative committee. The language from his bill was eventually included in another piece of legislation. We discuss how this political maneuver played out in the Utah House of Representatives and resulted in no support from the Utah Senate.
• A bill that would have changed Utah's populuar vote-by-mail system did not advance in the legislature. The proposal from Rep. Jefferson Burton (R-Provo) would have required voters to show their ID when they dropped off ballots. Will a version of this bill come back in the future?
• ️ Should Utah's lieutenant governor continue overseeing the state's elections? A bill from Rep. Lisa Shepherd (R-Provo) would have shifted oversight from the L.G. to a newly-created Secretary of State. The bill did not pass, but did bring up questions about election oversight in the Beehive State.
• ️ The filing period for congressional candidates in Utah opens up next week. Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT4) announced he is retiring and will not run for re-election. How will this shape the race for the other incumbents in Congress? And how will the state's new congressional boundaries influence the ballot?

️ FEATURING:
• Chris Bleak – Partner, RRJ Consulting
• Kate Bradshaw – Mayor, Bountiful City
• Glen Mills – Political Commentator

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:

• For the first time ever, more than 1,000 bills and resolutions have been introduced in the Utah Legislature. As the final week begins, leadership in the House and Senate will be able to prioritize proposals and streamline bills for potential passage. Top members of the Legislature expect that lawmakers will pass fewer bills than during previous sessions.
• The state will have more money to spend this year than originally expected. Lawmakers are required by state law to pass a balanced budget, and the appropriations committee is currently going through spending requests. We discuss what will likely get approved and whether some state agencies could still see budget cuts.
• State lawmakers are focused on several aspects of managing artificial intelligence in Utah. One would manage how law enforcement utilizes AI. Another would have regulated how companies can use AI to manipulate the price you are charged for products.
• There's a push on Capitol Hill to increase transparency within Utah's judicial branch. We examine arguments from both sides of the aisle regarding modifications to the Courts.
• The Great Salt Lake is getting lots of renewed attention at the national level. Pres. Donald Trump pledged his support to help save the lake in a social media post. It came after Utah Gov. Spencer Cox spent an hour in the Oval Office last week. Our panel evaluates what this could mean for influencing water policy in the Beehive State.
• ⚖️ Two big court rulings in Utah's redistricting case came down this week. A panel of federal judges declined to prevent Utah from using the congressional boundaries implemented by a state court late last year. A separate ruling from the Utah Supreme Court also refused to intervene while the case continues moving through district court.
• ️An initiative effort to repeal the state's independent redistricting law is on the cusp of qualifying for ballots. Now opponents to the intiative are working to get people to remove their signatures.
• The federal government is suing Utah Lieutenant Governor Deidre Henderson to gain access to Utah's voter rolls. The LG has refused to share the information in the past citing Constitutional and privacy concerns.

️ FEATURING:
• Senator Stephanie Pitcher – (D) Millcreek
• Senator Chris Wilson – (R) Logan, Majority Whip
• Brigham Tomco – Reporter, Deseret News

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:

• This is officially a record-breaking year on Utah's Capitol Hill. Lawmakers have introduced 969 bills having been introduced so far, but have only passed 96. Does that mean we can expect the pace to pick up in the final two weeks? Representatives from both sides of the political aisle weigh in.
• ⛽ Several bills dealing with taxes are working through the legislature, one of which would reduce the tax drivers pay at the gas pump. The original proposal would have replaced that lost revenue with a new tax on gasoline exports to surrounding states. A compromise bill could be coming, and we examine what that would mean for the state's balance sheet.
• ⬇️ The legislature is poised to reduce the income tax in Utah for the 6th year. The average Utah family will see a savings of about $45 each year.
• ⚖️ A federal court in Salt Lake City heard arguments this week regarding the state's Congressional boundaries. The panel of three judges appeared hesitant to wade into the dispute. We discuss when a ruling could be issued, and how it could impact the 2026 election.
• This week the Utah GOP submitted final signature packets for an initiative that would ask Utah voters to repeal Prop 4, the state's independent redistricting law. Organizers say they have gathered more than 200,000 signatures. County clerks have a few weeks to verify those and determine if the number of signatures met required thresholds in 26 of Utah's 29 senate districts.
• ⚛️ A small-scale nuclear reactor arrived in Utah at Hill Air Force Base this week, which could mark the beginning of a new era for energy development in the state.
• ‍⚖️ New polling shows a majority of Utahns support a new law expanding the size of the Utah Supreme Court. We examine why public sentiment is in favor of the expansion.
• ️ Several other bills are being considere including those dealing with taxing social media companies, state funding for services for undocumented immigrants, municipal election modifications, homelessness, criminal justice reform, and mental health resources.

️ FEATURING:
• Heidi Hatch – Anchor, KUTV 2News
• Rep. Steve Eliason – (R) Sandy, House Parliamentarian
• Rep. Andrew Stoddard – (D) Midvale

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:
• ️ Utah lawmakers are on track to file a record number of bills in 2026. But does that mean they will pass a record number of laws? Some lawmakers say legislation is moving through the legislature at a slower pace than recent years. We'll explain why politicians on both sides of the aisle believe that's a good thing.
• ️ Should the Utah Legislature modify the way it does business? A proposed constitutional amendment would break up the 45-day annual general session into three 15-day sessions. This proposal raises questions about whether Utah has grown enough to warrant a full-time legislature. Our panel discusses the pros and cons.
• This coming week lawmakers will receive updated revenue numbers as they begin finalizing budget requests from state agencies. Many expect the overall budget to be flat compared to last year. Major funding requests include more money for education and a $130 million expansion of the state prison in Salt Lake City.
• Housing and homelessness continue to be big issues on Capitol Hill. This week the House Majority Leader (Rep. Casey Snider, R-Paradise) announced legislation that would derail state plans for a new homeless campus on Salt Lake City's west side.
• Utah voters say the housing shortage is their number one concern. Our panel discusses several proposals to tackle this issue.
• ⛽️ A proposed tax on gasoline exports from Utah is sparking some conflict with neighboring states. We examine why this idea developed, and how negotiations could modify the bill.
• Should internet platforms be required to label "deep fakes"? That's the idea behind one of several bills that would regulate Artificial Intelligence. We explore how the state is looking to place guardrails around AI.
• Our panel also discusses several ther bills being considered in the legislature, including one that would expand maternity leave for state employees and several that focus on water issues in the state.

️ FEATURING:
• Rep. Ariel Defay – (R) Kaysville
• Rep. Doug Owens – (D) Millcreek, Minority Caucus Manager
• Jeff Parrott – Statewatch Editor, The Salt Lake Tribune

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:
• ⚖️ The bill that added two new justices to the Utah Supreme Court and also added judges to the Utah Court of Appeals and the district courts has passed the legislature and has already been signed into law by Gov. Spencer Cox. Opponents of the bill describe is as "packing" the Supreme Court, while supporters say this simply gets Utah on the same level with similarly sized states.
• ✍️ Utah Reps. Celeste Maloy and Burgess Owens have filed a lawsuit in federal court over a Utah judge's ruling in a redistricting lawsuit. They claim the court-imposed map causes "irreparable harm". At the same time, an initiative effort to overturn the state's independent redistricting commission has one more week to gather enough signatures to qualify for the ballot. We discuss whether organizers will meet the thresholds, and some controversy over alleged fraud on the part of signature gatherers.
• In a year with tight budgets, some lawmakers are pushing to cut income taxes for a sixth straight year. We look at the impact this would have on taxpayer pocketbooks, plus how some state programs could be negatively affected.
• Sen. Mike Lee is pushing for changes at the federal level to require proof of citizenship before voting in federal elections. Many of the provisions in his bill are already law at the state level in Utah.
• ️ Pres. Donald Trump has called for nationalizing some elections. The proposition has received bipartisan opposition, including from Utah's Republican Lieutenant Governor, Deidre Henderson.
• A bill to ban Kratom in Utah is making its way through the State Senate. We hear from people on both sides of the argument, and from from lawmakers about why this proposal has bipartisan support.

️ FEATURING:
• Sen. Jen Plumb – (D) Salt Lake City, Minority Assistant Whip
• Sen. Mike McKell – (R) Spanish Fork, Majority Assistant Whip
• Daniel Woodruff – Politics Reporter, KSL

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:

• Multiple cities in Utah have seen demonstrations and walk outs against ICE, with city and state leaders speaking out. Hinckley and Deseret News conducted a poll on the issue. Where do Utahns stand?
• The legislature passed base budgets this week, including for public education, health and human services, and higher education. Many budgets could see cuts of tens of millions of dollars.
• Taxes have been a huge topic this week, as one bill moving through the legislature proposes an income tax cut for Utahns, while another unreleased bill could slash the gas tax in half. How much money could Utahns save?
• Hear what the panel has to say on bills that would make changes to the courts, including one that creates a new, three-judge “constitutional court.”
• Bills focusing on elections aim to regulate voting equipment, and add an additional step to the petition signature gathering process.
• Huge news this week with the state confirming plans to buy US Magnesium, which was one of the state’s largest polluters. The news is bringing a lot of excitement over how it could help the shrinking Great Salt Lake.

FEATURING:

• Rep. Paul Cutler — (R) Centerville
• Rep. Sahara Hayes — (D) Salt Lake City, House Minority Assistant Whip
• Doug Wilks— Executive Editor, Deseret News

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:
• From big-picture priorities like AI, critical minerals, and long-term infrastructure to a potentially record number of bill filings, we break down the session's opening week.
• In his State of the State address, Governor Spencer Cox focused on efforts to improve childhood literacy, housing affordability, and homelessness. We also explore his call for greater unity and less political divisiveness.
• ⚖️ Tensions between the judicial branch and legislature may be at a tipping point. Chief Justice Matthew Durrant addressed the issues in rare public comments. We discuss the changes lawmakers are considering for Utah's judiciary.
• What bills are our political experts watching? From water-use reporting and Great Salt Lake protections to alcohol policy changes and some quirky proposals, our panel brings you into the conversation.

️ FEATURING:
• Kate Bradshaw – Mayor, Bountiful City
• Dennis Romboy – Deseret News
• Ben Winslow – Fox 13 News

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:
• ️ Utah Legislature Prepares for 2026 Session: Lawmakers preview major policy debates—including affordability, housing, and tax reform—as the state enters a year with a tighter budget and shifting economic conditions.
• Housing Affordability Takes Center Stage: Panelists highlight rising housing costs, zoning challenges, infrastructure gaps, and property tax pressures, describing affordability as the top concern among Utah residents across political parties.
• Budget Constraints Drive Tough Decisions: With revenues flat due to the One Big Beautiful Bill and mandated 5% budget‑cut exercises, legislators grapple with funding priorities in higher education, criminal justice, and essential state services.
• Key Policy Battles Ahead: The session is set to debate high‑impact bills on non‑compete agreements, K–3 literacy, income tax rate reductions, and property tax restructuring, each carrying significant implications for Utah workers, families, and businesses.
• ️ Redistricting & Elections Shape Political Landscape: Momentum builds around a ballot initiative to repeal the independent redistricting commission, while Utah sees an unprecedented 285 candidates running for 90 legislative seats, signaling heightened civic engagement and competitive races.

️ FEATURING:
• Rep. Karen Peterson – (R) Clinton, House Rulse Vice Chair
• Rep. Grant Miller – (D) Salt Lake City
• Chris Bleak – RRJ Consulting

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:
• ️ The assassination of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University and subsequent security-heavy events have intensified conversations about civility, student engagement, and the future of political discourse in the state and nation. We examine where the nation goes from here.
• ️ A landmark court ruling overturned Utah's 2021 Congressional Map, creating a Salt Lake County–focused district that leans Democratic, setting the stage for competitive races and potential shifts in national power. Our expert panel discusses what comes next for the legal case, and how things could still shift in 2026.
• ✊ Following large protests and over 300,000 signatures for a referendum, lawmakers reversed a controversial bill eliminating collective bargaining rights for public sector employee unions, signaling ongoing battles over labor policy. We explore what impact this could have on the upcoming legislative session.
• The 43-day federal government shutdown tied to Affordable Care Act subsidies ended up being the longest in history. We discuss whether the end result will lead to skyrocketing healthcare costs and how it may influencing upcoming elections.

️ FEATURING:
• Heidi Hatch – Anchor, KUTV 2News
• Jeff Parrott – Politics Editor, The Salt Lake Tribune
• Daniel Woodruff – Reporter, KSL 5 News

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:
• ⚖️ The size of the Utah Supreme Court has remained the same for more than 100 years, since it was set at five justices back in 1917. Would adding two more amount to court packing? Proponents of this plan say many states of a similar size already have larger supreme courts and that expanding would allow the Court to get through a backlog of cases more quickly. On the other side, critics argue there are more affordable ways to move cases along and this is simply a political move.
• Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) subsidies are set to expire in January unless Congress extends them. Utah is the 4th highest recipient of subsidies in the nation, so there would be a big impact here if they go away. Will Republicans and Democrats in Washington, DC come together to find a solution? Or will healthcare continue to be a political football?
• ✍️ In the past year, Congress has only passed 57 pieces of legislation, yet Pres. Trump has issued 221 executive orders. Critics of this dynamic claim the legislative branch has given up too much power to the executive branch. We examine how this is impacting our government and whether it defies the intention of the Constitution.
• Utah leaders are pushing back on an effort by Pres. Trump to control artificial intelligence regulations at the federal level. Should it be an issue managed by the states? Or does that create a marketplace that is too difficult for tech companies to navigate?

️ FEATURING:
• Maura Carabello – President, Exoro Group
• Jay Evensen – Opinion Editor, Deseret News
• Chris Bleak – Partner, RRJ Consulting

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:
• ️ The Utah Legislature repealed a bill that had banned colelctive bargaining for public employee unions. When lawmakers originally passed HB267 in early 2025, a coalition of union organizers spearheaded a citizen referendum. That effort secured more than 320,000 signatures and qualified for the ballot in 2026. Our panel explores what led to the repeal and what could come next.
• ️ Multiple bills during the special session were in response to the recent court rulings on Utah's Congressional map. One of the biggest changes involves pushing back the candidate filing deadline from January to March. We discuss why some lawmakers felt the change was necessary and how it impacts the future of redistricting litigation.
• ⚖️ SB2002, allows election-related court cases to be expedited directly to the Utah Supreme Court. We evaluate why some in the legislature felt the change was unnecessary.

️ FEATURING:
• Doug Wilks – Executive Editor, Deseret News
• Rep. Jefferson Burton – (R) Spanish Fork
• Rep. Jennifer Dailey-Provost – (D) Salt Lake City

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:

• The governor is required by state law to present a budget to the state legislature, but lawmakers aren't required to take his recommendations. This year his $30.7 billion proposal is largely "flat" from last year, something Gov. Cox attributes to lower revenue due to Pres. Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill".
• Homeless services would receive $25 million next year under this proposal. The governor described this issue as his top policy priority, including the construction of a new homeless services campus in Salt Lake City. Building this facility in Utah's capital city has received criticism. We evaluate arguments from both sides of the debate.
• Money to support improving child literacy in the state is another big policy priority. As is enhancing school safety programs.
• For the first time since Gov. Cox took office, his budget proposal does not include an income tax cut. He believes the cuts included in the "Big Beautiful Bill" will still help Utahns.
• ️ The ongoing fight over Utah's Congressional Maps will return to Capitol Hill next week. In a special session, the lawmakers will consider a plan to change the filing deadline for candidates. That woudl allow the Legislature more time to appeal the map selected last month by a judge. We examine what impact this could have on the races.

️ FEATURING:
• Rep. Hoang Nguyen – (D) Salt Lake City
• Brigham Tomco – Deseret News
• Rep. Ryan D. Wilcox – (R) North Ogden

THE DEEPER DIVE:
• Utah is expected to add 2 million more residents over the next 40 years. That's on top of the 18.4% growth the state has seen over the past decade. How does this impact housing affordability? And how should the state respond?
• The median price of homes in Utah is 6X that of the median income. That's double the number economists recommend as a healthy balance. With the cost of homes continuing to outpace wage growth, what can be done to make Utah more affordable?
• The median age of a first-time home buyer is much higher now than the historical average. We explore what this means for young people and their ability to accumulate generational wealth.
• Are zoning policies throughout the state to blame for the housing shortage? Our experts discuss the various barriers to increasing supply, and how the state government may get involved.
• ️ Construction costs grew quickly during the COVID-19 pandemic and never really returned to pre-2020 levels. What further impact do tariffs and immigration policies have on the cost of building housing?

️ FEATURING:
• Steve Waldrip – Senior Advisor for Housing Strategy to Utah Gov. Spencer Cox
• Natalie Gochnour – Director of the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah
• Steven Bond – Founder of the Utah-based non-profit HomeOwnership4U.org

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:
• After 43 days, the U.S. government is officially back open. We examine what eventually led to an agreement, plus were there any winners politically? And who do Americans blame overall?
• Healthcare subsidies were at the heart of this disagreement over federal spending. Democrats have pushed to extend those payments. Will the debate influence next year's midterm elections?
• With a new map in place for Utah's congressional boundaries, prominent Democrats are already launching campaigns for Congress. We discuss the showdown this could mean for candidates.
• ️ Critics of the redistricting ruling argue that the Utah Constitution reserves the redistricting power for the Utah Legislature. Will there be an appeal to the Utah Supreme Court? And what will be the political ramifications of this decision?
• ️ At least one state lawmaker is calling to impeach Judge Dianna Gibson because of her ruling in the redistricting case. Our panel evaluates what legislative leadership are saying about that possibility.
• ️ If the new map remains in place for the 2026 midterms, it has the potential to impact national politics. How could that shift the balance of power in Congress?

️ FEATURING:
• Kate Bradshaw – Bountiful City Mayor-elect
• Spencer Stokes – Founder and Partner, Stokes Strategies
• Ben Winslow – Fox 13 News

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:
• ️ Voter turnout varied between rural and urban areas of the state. Why were some voters more motivated to make their voices heard?
• Utah's pilot program with Ranked Choice Voting expires at the end of this year. Will it be extended? Or was the process too confusing for voters?
• Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced she will retire at the end of her current term after 40 years in Congress. We explore what will be her enduring legacy.
• Democrats performed well nationally with big wins in Virginia, New Jersey, and New York City, overperforming trends from the 2024 Presidential Election. What explains this shift?
• ️ Judge Dianna Gibson will rule on Utah's new congressional map in the coming days. Will she keep the map approved by the Legislature in September? And what happens if she throws that map out as well?
• ✈️ As a result of the government shutdown, airports around the country - including here in Salt Lake City - are being forced to cut the number of daily flights. Will this push Congress toward a compromise on federal spending?

️ FEATURING:
• Rep. Candice Pierucci – (R) Riverton, Majority Whip
• Rep. Andrew Stoddard – (D) Midvale
• Lindsay Aerts – Host, Inside Utah Politics on ABC4 News

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:
• The environmental, health, and economic impacts of a shrinking lake
• ️ Dust storms and air quality concerns
• The Great Salt Lake Charter and bipartisan collaboration
• Water conservation policies and technological innovations
• The role of business, government, and individuals in lake restoration
• ️ Olympic 2034 implications and global reputation risks

️ FEATURING:
• Josh Romney – President/CEO of The Romney Group and Founder of the Great Salt Lake Rising Business Coalition
• Natalie Gochnour – Director, Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah
• Brian Steed – Great Salt Lake Commissioner

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

THE DEEPER DIVE:

• The ongoing government shutdown and its ripple effects on Utah families, federal employees, and national politics.
• A deep dive into healthcare subsidies, partisan blame, and polling trends.
• ️ The redistricting showdown in Utah: indirect initiatives, Proposition 4, and legal battles that could reach the U.S. Supreme Court.
• ⚖️ Governor Cox’s appointment of Judge John Nielsen to the Utah Supreme Court and what it means for judicial philosophy and court expansion.
• ️ Why municipal elections matter more than ever — and how local races impact your daily life.

️ FEATURING:

• Frank Pignanelli – Political Lobbyist with Foxley & Pignanelli
• Damon Cann – Political Science Professor at Utah State University
• Heidi Hatch – Anchor, KUTV 2News

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

TOPICS COVERED:

• ️ Federal government shutdown and its impact on Utah’s 40,000 federal workers
• Understanding continuing resolutions (CRs) and bipartisan negotiations
• ️ Utah’s redistricting special session and the legal battle over congressional maps
• ⚖️ Major change in how the Chief Justice of the Utah Supreme Court is selected
• Calls for civility and bipartisan cooperation in today’s political climate

️ FEATURING:

• Congresswoman Celeste Maloy – (R) Utah’s 2nd Congressional District
• Rep. Doug Owens – (D) Millcreek, Minority Caucus Manager
• Brigham Tomco – Political Reporter, Deseret News

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

TOPICS COVERED:

• ️ Government Shutdown: What’s new, who’s to blame, and how it impacts Utahns
• Healthcare Funding & The Big Beautiful Bill: The fight over tax cuts vs. coverage for vulnerable Americans
• National Parks & Rural Economies: How shutdowns hit Utah’s tourism and local businesses
• Polling data about who the public blames for the shutdown
• ️ Partisan Politics & Term Limits: Calls for reform and restoring trust in government
• ️ Redistricting in Utah: Special legislative session session and the battle over congressional maps
• ⚖️ Prop 4 & Partisan Bias Tests: Legal battles and the future of fair representation

EXPERT INSIGHTS FROM:

• Dennis Romboy – Editor and Reporter, Deseret News
• Rep. Jennifer Dailey-Provost – (D) Salt Lake City
• Thomas Wright – Utah Business Owner

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

Topics Covered:

• ‍⚖️ The impact of Proposition 4 and Judge Gibson’s ruling
• ⚖️ Partisan symmetry and the battle of redistricting experts
• ️ Urban vs. rural representation in Utah
• ️ Public feedback and the role of citizen-drawn maps
• What’s next before the October 6 special session and the court's deadline

️ Explore the proposed maps and leave your feedback: Redistricting.Utah.gov

EXPERT INSIGHTS FROM:

• Senator Luz Escamilla – (D) Salt Lake County, Senate Minority Leader
• Senator Mike McKell – (R) Utah County, Senate Majority Assistant Whip
• Daniel Woodruff – Reporter, KSL 5 News

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

TOPICS COVERED:

• How political rhetoric fuels violence
• The impact on youth and civic engagement
• The role of social media and echo chambers
• ️ Bipartisan calls for nonviolent political exchange
• ️ Governor Spencer Cox’s “Disagree Better” initiative
• ️ The importance of protecting free speech—even when it's uncomfortable
• Exclusive Utah polling data reveals public concern and who citizens believe is responsible for escalating tensions

EXPERT INSIGHTS FROM:

• Amelia Powers Gardner – (R) Utah County Commissioner
• Brian King – Chair, Utah Democratic Party
• Chris Bleak – Partner, RRJ Consulting

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

TOPICS COVERED:

• ️ Who can call a special session? The impact of Amendment C and the evolving power dynamics between the Governor and Legislature
• ⚖️ Judicial reform and the controversial bill on selecting the Chief Justice
• The Great Salt Lake emergency and proposed berm management legislation
• ‍♀️ Public employee unions and the referendum that could shake the 2026 ballot
• ️ Redistricting battles and the looming court decisions
• Behind-the-scenes negotiations and what’s really driving the special session agenda

EXPERT INSIGHTS FROM:

• Ben Winslow – Political Reporter, FOX 13 News
• Kate Bradshaw – Bountiful City Council
• Glen Mills – Political Analyst

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by the Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

TOPICS COVERED:

• ⚖️ Utah Redistricting Lawsuit: What a historic court ruling means for congressional maps and voter representation.
• Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill”: Tax cuts, rescissions, and the impact on Utah families and public broadcasting.
• ️ Mail-In Ballots Controversy: Utah’s response to national criticism and why local leaders defend vote-by-mail.
• House Bill 267 & Public Employee Rights: Firefighters, teachers, and police push back—will the legislature respond?
• Utah Olympics 2034: A global vision for the next Winter Games.
• ️ Ranked-Choice Voting: Is Utah abandoning a tool for reducing political polarization?

️ INSIGHTFUL COMMENTARY FROM:

• Doug Wilks – Executive Editor, Deseret News
• Leah Murray – Director, Olene Walker Institute at Weber State
• Max Roth – Anchor, Fox 13 News

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by The Cleone Peterson Eccles Endowment Fund and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

Organizers of a referendum effort in Utah are inching closer to qualifying for the ballot. As of Friday, county clerks have certified the minimum number of required signatures in 11 of Utah's 29 senate districts. State law requires referendum backers to collect signatures equaling 8% of registered voters in 15 of the 29 districts.

Plus, Utah's political parties will all hold leadership elections in the coming days and weeks. For the Democrats, former Utah Rep. Brian King wants to become chair. Meanwhile, current Republican Chair Rob Axson is facing a challenge from Phil Lyman, a well-known name in GOP circles. We discuss what changes in party leadership could mean for politics overall in the Beehive State.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Jay Evensen, opinion editor at the Deseret News — Rep. Jennifer Daily-Provost, a Democrat from Salt Lake City and House Minority Whip — and Sen. Mike McKell, a Republican from Spanish Fork and Senate Majority Assistant Whip.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

New polling is out about how Utahns feel about the state legislature and Gov. Spencer Cox. Are their views shifting at all? Our expert panel examines the results and explores how recent headlines may be impacting public opinion.

Plus, this week Utah was named the state with the best economic outlook for the 18th year in a row according to the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). Legislative leaders adn Gov. Cox welcomed the news, but acknowledged the reality that Pres. Donald Trump's tariff agenda could lead to an economic slowdown. We discuss how the state is preparing for that scenario, and how public perception of the economy is faring.

Plus, Utah had some big-name political visitors this week. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-New York) brought their "Fight Oligarchy Tour" to Salt Lake City on Sunday. An estimated 20,000 people came out to hear the pair speak. We examine what the big crows potentially says about politics in the Beehive State, and why two well-known progressives went out of their way to visit a deep red state like Utah.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Holly Richardson, editor of Utah Policy — Daniel Woodruff, reporter with KSL 5 News — and Ben Winslow, reporter with Fox 13 News.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

Kennedy specifically praised a bill recently passed by the Utah legislature that bans fluoride from water systems in the state. The move aligns with Kennedy's "Make America Healthy Again" initiatives.

Utah leaders are also weighing in on Pres. Trump's latest round of tariffs. The fear is whether or not economic uncertainty over the executive orders will push the country toward a recession. We evaluate how Utah is being impacted, and what Gov. Spencer Cox is doing to shore up the state's economy.

Union organizers in Utah have less than a week to gather signatures in their attempt to get a voter referendum on the state's ballot. The group "Protect Utah Workers" is made up of several labor unions in the state. They want Utah voters to decide whether or not to overturn HB 267 (Rep. Jordan Teuscher, R-South Jordan). That bill passed by the legislature and signed by Gov. Cox prohibits public labor unions from collective bargaining.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Robert Spendlove, senior economist with Zions Bank — McKenzie Romero, editor-in-chief of Utah News Dispatch — and Chris Bleak, partner with RRJ Consulting.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Intro
• (00:00:53) - Visit from Transportation Secretary Duffy
• (00:04:33) - RFK Jr., MAHA, and the Utah Way
• (00:16:55) - Tariffs and Trade Wars
• (00:20:55) - Public Worker Unions Referendum
• (00:24:28) - Will the Legislature hold a veto override session?
• (00:25:54) - Outro

Our expert panel discusses how the new laws impact our overall energy equation, and how innovation will play a role in the future.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Derek Miller, President & CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber — Natalie Gochnour, Director of the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah — and State Sen. Scott Sandall, a Republican from Tremonton and Vice Chair of the Executive Appropriations Committee.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

Of the bills he vetoed, SB296 (sponsored by Sen. Chris Wilson, R-Logan) would have hanged the way the Chief Justice of the Utah Supreme Court is appointed. Currently, the sitting justices choose amongs themselves who will be Chief. But this bill would have required the Governor to nominate a Chief Justice, and the Senate to approve that nomination every four years. Gov. Cox had concerns this could politicize the role. Legislative leaders are now frustrated, because the final version of this bill came about through negotiation with members of the judicial branch. Lawmakers could call themselves into special session to override the veto, but that would require a 2/3 vote in both the House and Senate.

Utah statute allows bills to become law if the Governor doesn't sign them within 20 days after the end of the legislative session. The Governor utilized this tool by not signing two bills this year. One bans fluoride from being added to state water systems. The other specifies which flags can be flown at public buildings, effectively banning pride flags from classrooms and government property. In a letter to legislative leadership, the governor highlighted his concerns with both bills. We discuss why he likely opted not to veto these two pieces of legislation.

Plus, we remember the legacy of former Congresswoman Mia Love. The two-term represenative from Utah's 4th Congressional District passed away on Sunday, March 23, 2025 following a three-year battle with brain cancer.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Doug Wilks, executive editor of the Deseret News — Mara Carabellow, president of the Exoro Group — and Sean Higgins, politics reporter with KUER News.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

At the federal level, executive power is also in the limelight. This week, Pres. Donald Trump signed an executive order that directs the U.S. Dept. of Education to begin shutting down. Gov. Cox has been a vocal proponent of this move, saying that education should be under the perview of states. Opponents of this idea worry it will leave at-risk students without access to important funding. But the president insists key programs will still be administered by other federal agencies.

There is also growing friction between the executive branch and the federal judicial system. Pres. Donald Trump has suggested the federal judges who rule against his executive orders should face impeachment. This led U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Robers to issue a rare public statement, affirming the independence of the courts. We discuss what is playing out on the national stage, and how prominent Utahns are entering the discussion.

Across the country, members of Congress are facing angry constituents at town hall meetings. Frustrated citizens are showing up in large numbers, apparently upset about the actions of the Trump administration. That same dynamic played out in Salt Lake City where Rep. Celeste Maloy (R-UT2) and Rep. Mike Kennedy (R-UT3) held a town hall.

Plus, should federally-managed public lands be used to build affordable housing? It's an idea Utah Senator Mike Lee has pushed for years, and now there seems to be growing support within Pres. Trump's administration.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Heidi Hatch, anchor with KUTV 2News — Brigham Tomco, politics reporter with the Deseret News — and Marty Carpenter, partner with Northbound Strategy.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

We also explore the major themes of the session, including changes to higher education funding. Utah's public universities and colleges face a 10% budget cut unless they redirect funding to programs that are considered high demand.

Gov. Cox has 20 days to sign, veto, or allow bills to become law without his signature. He is getting pressure from groups to veto some legislation, including HB77. That bill, sponsored by Rep. Trevor Lee (R-Davis County), effectively bans pride flags from flying at schools and government buildings in the state. Organizers of the Sundance Film Festival are reportedly concerned about the message the bill sends to members of the LGBT+ community. This comes at a time when the festival is considering moving to another state, and on the hills of the legislature appropriating $3.5M in an effort to get the festival to stay in the Beehive State.

An effort to overturn Utah's new ban on collective bargaining for public employee unions is kicking off this weekend. A coalition of union organizers is attempting to get a referendum on the ballot to undo HB267. That bill, sponsored by Rep. Jordan Teuscher (R-Salt Lake County), passed in the legislature with bipartisan opposition. Gov. Cox has already signed the legislation into law. In order to make it on the ballot, referendum organizers need to secure more than 140,000 signatures from around the state.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Rep. Hoang Nguyen, a Democrat from Salt Lake County and member of the PBS Utah Advisory Board — Rep. Jefferson Moss, a Republican from Utah County and House Majority Leader — and Max Roth, anchor with Fox 13 News.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

A bill that impacts how the state's capital city manages its own streets is now on the way to Governor Cox's desk. SB195, sponsored by Sen. Wayne Harper (R-Salt Lake County), passed the legislature this week. An earlier version of the bill would have placed a moratorium on Salt Lake City implementing any traffic-calming measures. After pushback from the city and other groups, a modified version now gives UDOT veto power over plans that could potentially slow down traffic.

A coalition of public labor unions is launching a referendum to overturn the new law that prevents public employees from collective bargaining. Lawmakers passed HB267, sponsored by Rep. Jordan Teuscher (R-Salt Lake County), earlier in the session and Gov. Spencer Cox signed it into law shortly thereafter. In order to qualify for the ballot, referendum organizers have to gather more than 140,000 signatures from around the state. If they reach that threshold, voters will have the final say on whether or not this law remains on the books. The bill faced bipartisan opposition in both the House and Senate, and was the subject of large public protests at the Capitol.

Another bill that also received bipartisan opposition would have created a new state agency to oversee large development projects that have statewide impact. SB337, sponsored by Sen. Kirk Cullimiore (R-Salt Lake County), would have established the Beehive Development Agency within Gov. Spencer Cox's administration. The agency would have had significant taxing authority to help raise funds for major development projects like nuclear power plants, large manufacturing facilities, and potentially even retail and residential projects. But critics worried the proposal usurped too much local control from cities and towns, and bill sponsors say it will not be moving forward this session. Our panel discusses whether it is likely to return in the future.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Ben Winslow, politics reporter with Fox 13 News — Lindsay Aerts, anchor with ABC4 News and host of Inside Utah Politics — and Jeff Parrott, Statewatch Editor for The Salt Lake Tribune.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

HB563 is sponsored by House Speaker Mike Schultz and changes how ballot titles and analysis are written for proposed constitutional amendments. Currently, legislative leaders craft the language, but this bill would shift that responsibility to non-partisan lawyers who work for the legislature. The move follows a Utah Supreme Court opinion in Fall of 2024 that found the ballot language used on Amendment D was "inaccurate". Our expert panel discusses how this proposal actually puts back in place an old system.

Lawmakers are also debating changes to the state's vote-by-mail system. HB 300, sponsored by Rep. Jefferson Burton (R-Salem), would require Utah voters to opt-in to receive ballots in the mail. We examine the timeline it would take to implement, and why proponents say the bill will increase election security.

This week the Chief Justice of the Utah Supreme Court delivered a letter to legislative leadership in which he expressed concern about efforts to change the state's judicial branch. We explore the arguments for and against HB512, a bill sponsored by Rep. Karianne Lisonbee (R-Davis County) that would allow the legislature to weigh in on judicial performance evaluations.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Representative Karen Peterson, a Republican from Davis County and House Vice Rules Chair — Representative Greg Miller, a Democrat from Salt Lake County — and Dr. Damon Cann, a political science professor at Utah State University.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

Plus, will there still be a tax cut? Governor Spencer Cox had been hoping to eliminate Utah's portion of the income tax on social security benefits, but that could be in limbo now. While legislative leaders say a cut is still possible, we evaluate the likelihood of one passing.

Other bills moving forward on Utah's Capitol Hill include a proposal to disband the State Records Committee, and a change in how Utah school districts receive their funding. SB277, sponsored by Senator Mike McKell (R-Utah County), would replace the State Records Committee with an administrative law judge. Under current law, people requesting access to public records can appeal state decisions to a committee made up of volunteer community members. Sen. McKell believes that group takes too long to make decisions, and centralizing the process with a single political appointee would be better. Meanwhile, SB37 would funnel property tax revenue levied by local school district to the state general fund before that money is reallcoated back to the districts. The money could then also be used to pay for other state needs.

A bill that would have kept Utah clocks from moving back and forth twice a year appears to be dead. The proposal from Rep. Joe Eliason (R-Washington County) would had Utah join Arizona and Hawaii on permanent standard time, unless Congress passed a law to move the nation to permanent Daylight Saving Time. HB120 had passed the Utah House of Representatives with bipartisan support, but a Senate committee voted to "table" the bill, meaning it likely won't move any further this year. But could it make another appearance in the future? Our panel discusses the possibility.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Representative Doug Owens, a Democrat from Salt Lake County and Minority Caucus Manager in the Utah House of Representatives — Representative Ariel Defay, a Republican from Davis County — and Daniel Woodruff, a reporter with KSL 5 News.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

We are now officially past the halfway point of the 2025 Utah Legislative Session. Lawmakers have drafted nearly 1,000 bills but have, so far, passed fewer than 100 of them. We discuss what bills could still be coming, and what the legislature is likely to prioritize in the session's final weeks.

Finally, there are a number of bills that would modify the judicial branch of government in the Beehive State. One would increase the number of justices on the Utah Supreme Court. Another would increase the threshold for judges to be retained in retention elections from 50% support to 67%. We evaluate how these proposals could reshape the judiciary, and discuss what is the likely motivating factor behind the bills.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Senator Chris Wilson, a Republican from Cache and Rich Counties and Majority Whip in the State Senate — Representative Sahara Hayes, a Democrat from Millcreek and Minority Assistant Whip in the Utah House — and Holly Richardson, editor of Utah Policy.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

Utah lawmakers are also considering bills to reform elections in the Beehive State. One proposal would require most voters to turn in mail-in ballots in person and show ID when doing so. Opponents of the measure worry this will disenfranchise voters in rural Utah, older Utahns, and people with disabilities from engaging in the democratic process. We evaluate the likelihood of this bill passing, and whether it has support in both chambers of the legislature.

Plus, with Pres. Donald Trump issuing numerous executive orders dealing with immigration, some Utah lawmakers are seizing the opportunity to enact reforms here at home as well. We discuss some of those proposals, and the significance of Utah's newly elected Attorney General wading into the debate over birthright citizenship.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Representative Steve Eliason, a Republican from Sandy and Parliamentarian in the Utah House — Senator Jen Plumb, a Democrat from Salt Lake City and Minority Assistant Whip in the Utah Senate — and Robert Gehrke, a reporter with The Salt Lake Tribune.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit https://pbsutah.org/supporthinckley

Governor Spencer Cox focused his State of the State Address on building affordable homes, energy production, regulatory reform, and strengthening families and communities in Utah.

The 45-day Legislative Session also kicked off with Utah legislators proposing bills to protect kids from social media, change how Utahns pass ballot initiatives, and amend the election process.

What do lawmakers care about most and how could these sweeping changes in government affect Uthans?

Republican Majority Leader Sen. Kirk A. Cullimore, Democratic Minority Leader Sen. Luz Escamilla, Bountiful City Councilwoman Kate Bradshaw, and host Jason Perry break down these important issues on this week's episode of The Hinckley Report.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit pbsutah.org/supporthinckley.

The Utah legislature is also just days away from beginning its 2025 General Session. Legislative leaders have indicated their priotities include energy policy and development. We discuss how an "all of the above" approach could include both coal AND nuclear power. One proposal on Capitol Hill would re-direct some property tax revenue into energy development, but will this face push-back from rural counties that already count on that funding for their general budgets?

Tax cuts will be another big topic during the legislative session. Over the past several years, the legislature has passed $1.2 billion in tax cuts, and legislative leaders are eyeing another $165 million in 2025. Governor Spencer Cox wants the cut to come from removing income taxes on all social security benefits, but other lawmakers may have different ideas.

Plus, as Salt Lake CIty moves forward with plans to use sales tax revenue to develop a sports and entertainment district downtown, our panel discusses new polling that reveals just how popular the Beehive State's new major-league hockey team actually is.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Jay Evenson, opinion editor at the Deseret News — Lindsay Aerts, ABC4 News Anchor and Host of "Inside Utah Politics" — and Marty Carpenter, partner with Northbound Strategy.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit pbsutah.org/supporthinckley.

Plus, with about a week and a half until the 2025 Utah Legislative Session begins, state lawmakers are already making their policy priorities clear. Republican lawmakers held a news conference this week to discuss several bills they will sponsor tackling immigration issues. The policies would primarily target immigrants who are in the country illegally and commit other crimes while they are here.

These proposals call into question whether political leaders remain committed to the Utah Compact on Immigration. That is a statement signed by hundreds of Utah business and community leaders in 2010, and re-signed in 2019, that affirms Utah's commitment to treating immigrants with humanity, opposing policies that would separate families, and incorporating immigrants into the workforce and economy. We discuss how these new policies fit in with the original intent of the Utah Compact, and how they could influence immigrants in the Beehive State.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Representative Candice Pierucci, a Republican from Riverton and the Majority Caucus Manager in the Utah House — Dennis Romboy, an editor with the Deseret News — and Chris Bleak, a political commentator and partner with RRJ Consulting.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit pbsutah.org/supporthinckley.

Utah Sen. Mitt Romney's term ends in just a few days. We explore the impact of his time in the Senate, what he accomplished for Utah, and what his legacy will be.

We also discuss one of the biggest political stories of the year — how the Utah Republican Party's convention winners largely did not end up winning their primary elections. What does this say about politics in the state? And what does it mean for future elections?

Host Jason Perry is joined by Maura Carabellow, president of the Exoro Group — Doug Wilks, the executive editor of the Deseret News — and Max Roth, an anchor with Fox 13 News.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit pbsutah.org/supporthinckley.

The members of Utah's federal delegation have secured some key committee assignments. We examine how that will impact the Beehive State's standing on the national stage.

Plus, Utah's newest Senator said this week he does not intent to be a rubber stamp for President-elect Donald Trump's political nominees. We discuss the outsized influence John Curtis could have in a closely-divided Congress.

And new polling reveals how confident Utah voters are in the 2024 election results.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Greg Bell, former Utah Lieutenant Governor — Leah Murray, director of the Olene Walker Institute of Politics and Public Service at Weber State University — and Frank Pignanelli, a Utah-based attorney and political commentator. —

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit pbsutah.org/supporthinckley.

In this episode, our expert panel examines the Beehive State's budgeting process. Learn how legislative leaders negotiate with the governor's office and find out who gets the final say on how your tax dollars actually get spent.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Sophia DiCaro, Executive Director of the Governor's Office of Planning and Budget — Rep. Angela Romero, a Democrat from Salt Lake City and House Minority Leader — and Sen. Jerry Stevenson, a Republican from Davis County and Chair of the Executive Appropriations Committee.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit pbsutah.org/supporthinckley.

Plus, some Utah lawmakers want to change the way elections are overseen in the state. Proposals range from giving a Secretary of State election oversight, to creating an independent election commission. We discuss the options on the table, and evaluate how they would impact ballot access.

Host Jason Perry is joined by Amelia Powers Gardener—a Republican member of the Utah County Commission, Doug Wilks—executive editor of the Deseret News, and Holly Richardson—editor of UtahPolicy.com.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit pbsutah.org/supporthinckley.

New polling suggests public trust in institutions like Congress and the media is much lower than it used to be. We discuss how this downward trend is a potential threat to our democratic republic, and the best way to improve those relationships.

Plus, what issues will take center stage on Utah's Capitol Hill when lawmakers convene for their annual session in January? And how does our federal delegation work with state leaders to streamline policy changes?

In this episode, host Jason Perry is joined by Representative Celeste Maloy—a Republican from Utah's 2nd Congressional District, former Representative Ben McAdams—a Democrat who represented Utah's 4th Congressional District, and State Representative Tyler Clancy—a Republican representing Provo in the Utah House.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit pbsutah.org/supporthinckley.

President-elect Donald Trump is beginning the process of naming key members of his cabinet. As his future administration starts to take shape, we discuss whether any Utahns are likely to take on key roles.

Plus, national voter turnout is nearing historic levels, but that's not the case here in Utah. Why did fewer people show up to the polls in the Beehive State this election? And how could shifting demographics influence elections in the future?

In this episode, host Jason Perry is joined by Republican Senator Mike McKell, the Assistant Majority Whip representing Utah County in the Utah Senate — Democratic Senator Jen Plumb, the Assistant Minority Whip representing Salt Lake City in the Utah Senate — and Daniel Woodruff, a reporter at KSL 5 News.

Funding for The Hinckley Report is made possible in part by Merit Medical and by the financial contributions of PBS Utah members. If you would like to support the work we do, please visit pbsutah.org/donate.

Plus, the trends seen in Utah's election results were a bit different than many other states. We examine what that could signal about our state's influence in national politics.

In this episode, host Jason Perry is joined by Saige Miller, politics reporter with KUER - Thomas Wright, Utah businessman and former Republican Party leader - and Scott Howell, the former minority leader in the Utah State Senate.

The Utah County Clerk is facing scrutiny this week after it was revealed that his office was tracking the ballots of politicians. He also called for Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson to be prosecuted for how the signature gathering process was handled earlier this year. We examine what this all means to confidence in elections, and how other state leaders are responding.

Plus, we discuss voter turnout and our panelists reveal which races they will be watching closely on election night.

In this episode, host Jason Perry is joined by Dennis Romboy, editor and reporter with the Deseret News — Holly Richardson, editor of Utah Policy — and Ben Winslow, politics reporter with Fox 13 News.

In recent years, however, political disagreement seems to have reached new heights, and some argue the great American tradition of compromise has been replaced by contempt. Our panel examines the impact political polarization is having on our country. What explains the rise in political violence? Why is rhetoric more heated than ever? And is there still room for dignity in politics?

In this episode, host Jason Perry is joined by Tim Shriver — founder of The Dignity Index, Natalie Gochnour — director of the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah, and Boyd Matheson — host of "Sunday Edition" on KSL 5 TV.

Plus, new polling suggests some interesting trends in both the race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump and the Utah governor's race between Gov. Spencer Cox, and his main opponents Democrat Brian King, and write-in candidate Phil Lyman. What is happening in these top ticket races? And what impact could that have on the down-ballot contests?

And could Senator Mitt Romney, Senator Mike Lee, former Governor Jon Huntsman Jr., or Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes be on the short list for a cabinet position depending on who wins the White House in November?

In this episode, host Jason Perry is joined by Corey Norman — the chief of staff for Congressman John Curtis, Suzanne Harrison — Democratic member of the Salt Lake County Council, and Robert Gehrke — news columnist with The Salt Lake Tribune.

Editorial Note: This episode was recorded before the Utah Supreme Court issued a ruling voiding Amendment D from Utah ballots this November.

Maura Carabello, president of the Exoro Group, Glen Mills, anchor and senior political correspondent with ABC4 News, and Boyd Matheson, host of 'Inside Sources' on KSL NewsRadio join host Jason Perry on this edition of The Hinckley Report.

Matt Canham, senior reporter with the Salt Lake Tribune, Jasen Lee, reporter with the Deseret News and co-host of the Voices of Reason podcast, and Michelle Quist, columnist with the Salt Lake Tribune join host Jason Perry on this edition of The Hinckley Report.

Sonja Hutson, political reporter with KUER, Jay Evensen, columnist with the Deseret News, and Marty Carpenter, president of 24NINE join host Jason Perry on this edition of The Hinckley Report.

Emily Means, political reporter with KUER, Doug Wilks, editor of the Deseret News, and Spencer Stokes, president of Stokes Strategies join host Jason Perry on this edition of The Hinckley Report.

Dr. Mark Rapaport, CEO of the Huntsman Mental Health Institute, David Huntsman, representing the Huntsman Foundation, and Rep. Steve Eliason, member of the Utah House of Representatives join host Jason Perry on The Hinckley Report.

Matt Canham, managing editor of The Salt Lake Tribune, former Utah House Representative Rebecca Chavez-Houck, and Rod Arquette, host of the Rod Arquette Show join host Jason Perry for the Hinckley Report, this Friday at 7:30pm.

Frank Pignanelli, political commentator and lobbyist with Foxley & Pignanelli, Natalie Gochnour, director of Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, and Bob Bernick, contributing editor at Utah Policy join host Jason Perry on this week’s Hinckley Report.

Guests include Doug Wilks, editor of the Deseret News, Representative Brian King, House Minority Leader, and former State House Representative Sophia DiCaro join host Jason Perry on this week's Hinckley Report.

 Salt Lake Tribune's Ben Wood, ABC4's Emily Clark and lobbyist with RRJ Consulting Chris Bleak join host Jason Perry for this week's Hinckley Report.

Jasen Lee, journalist with the Deseret News, Lindsay Whitehurst, Associated Press reporter, and Matt Canham, senior managing editor of the Salt Lake Tribune join host Jason Perry for this week’s Hinckley Report.

Jennifer Napier Pearce, editor of the Salt Lake Tribune, Max Roth, anchor and political reporter with Fox 13 News, and Glen Mills, anchor and senior political correspondent with ABC 4 Utah join host Jason Perry on this week’s Hinckley Report.

FOX 13’s Ben Winslow, KSL’s Amy Donaldson, and the Salt Lake Tribune’s Michelle Quist join host Jason Perry on this week’s Hinckley Report.

Bryan Schott, managing editor at UtahPolicy.com, House Minority Leader Brian King, and Bountiful City Councilwoman Kate Bradshaw join Jason Perry on this week’s Hinckley Report. 

Nicole Nixon, reporter at KUER 90.1, Glen Mills, anchor at ABC 4 Utah, and Bob Bernick, contributing editor at UtahPolicy.com  join Host Jason Perry on this week’s Hinckley Report.

 The Deseret News’ Boyd Matheson, Univision 32’s Lester Rojas, and Associated Press reporter Lindsay Whitehurst join Host Jason Perry for this week’s Hinckley Report.

KUTV's Heidi Hatch, Fox 13's Max Roth, and Doug Wilks from Deseret News join host Jason Perry for this week's episode of The Hinckley Report.

Former State Senator Scott Howell, Salt Lake Tribune's Ben Wood, ABC4's Emily Clark join host Jason Perry for this week's Hinckley Report.

Fox 13’s Ben Winslow, KNRS’ Rod Arquette, and Political Commentator Michelle Quist join Host Jason Perry in this week’s roundtable discussion.

 The Exoro Group’s Maura Carabello, Utah Senator Todd Weiler, and The Salt Lake Tribune’s Matt Canham are this week’s guests.

KUER’s Nicole Nixon, The Deseret News’ Boyd Matheson, and The Salt Lake Tribune’s Robert Gehrke join Host Jason Perry for this week’s Hinckley Report.

The Deseret News’ Lisa Riley Roche, the Associate Press’ Lindsay Whitehurst, and ABC4 News Glen Mills join Host Jason Perry on this week’s Hinckley Report.