Episodios

  • Breaking Down Amendment A & D: Utah's Path to Political Reform

    Breaking Down Amendment A & D: Utah's Path to Political Reform
    Sep 7 2024
    In this insightful episode of 'Utah Understands the Assignment,' hosts Wendy and Drew engage with Michelle Quist, Lori Spruance, and Jade Velasquez to explore the crucial legislative amendments and their wider implications for Utah. The discussion centers on the impact of amendments like A, B, C, and D, emphasizing the importance of voter education and active participation. Michelle Quist critiques legislative deceptions affecting voter rights and stresses the need for better support for teachers, while Lori Spruance highlights her campaign's focus on public education, child hunger, mental health, and diverse legislative representation. Jade Velasquez reports from various political events, underlining the urgency of grassroots organizing. The episode calls for mobilizing volunteers and supporting candidates who can challenge the supermajority for balanced and transparent governance in Utah.
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    1 h y 25 m
  • Bridging Divides: Utah’s United Front for Change

    Bridging Divides: Utah’s United Front for Change
    Aug 17 2024
    In this episode of 'Utah Understands the Assignment,' hosts Drew and Wendy bring together a diverse coalition of political figures for an in-depth discussion on Utah's evolving political landscape. The episode begins by honoring the late Senator Karen Mayne, recognizing her enduring legacy and invaluable contributions to the state.
    Among the featured guests is City Council Member Zach Robinson, who shares insights into his inclusive and community-focused campaign for a County Council seat. His approach underscores the importance of representation and the need for voices that reflect Utah's diverse population.
    Council Member Natalie Pinkney joins the conversation despite technical challenges, offering her perspective on the critical issues of education and generational wealth. She highlights the challenges and opportunities within the educational system and the long-term impact on economic mobility for future generations.
    Representative Gay Lynn Bennion takes a deep dive into pressing matters such as water conservation and housing. She delivers a stark warning about the consequences of misaligned legislative priorities, urging a more thoughtful and balanced approach to governance that considers the state's future sustainability.
    Rebecca Cummings, running for Lieutenant Governor alongside Brian King, passionately addresses the alarming trend of book bans and the broader fight against extreme political shifts. She advocates for robust grassroots efforts in the 2024 election, emphasizing the necessity of standing up against radical ideologies that threaten to reshape Utah's political and social fabric.
    The episode also delves into Utah's libertarian roots, examining how the fusion of radical ideologies with religious influences is shaping the current socio-political climate. The conversation touches on the rising community tensions, the dangers of extremist rhetoric, and the critical need for voter engagement.
    Throughout the episode, the speakers collectively stress the importance of voter turnout and the support of moderate Democratic candidates. They argue that such support is essential for ensuring balanced governance in a state where political extremism is becoming increasingly prevalent. The discussion serves as a call to action, urging Utahns to actively participate in shaping the state's future by backing candidates who prioritize the well-being of all residents.
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    1 h y 37 m
  • Mobilize and Empower: Grassroots Strategies for Utah's Future

    Mobilize and Empower: Grassroots Strategies for Utah's Future
    Aug 10 2024
    In this episode of 'Utah Understands the Assignment,' co-hosts Drew and Wendy explore the grassroots efforts and bipartisan cooperation aimed at enhancing representation and protecting democracy in Utah. Guests include Cissy Rasmussen, who discusses creating supportive activist communities; Katrina Fallick-Wang, who shares her journey from rural poverty to political candidacy; Jacob Rugh, who analyzes political shifts in Utah; Darlene McDonald, who talks about strategic campaign decisions; Rosalba Dominguez, who highlights the struggle with student debt and health issues; and Elliot Kaufmann, who provides insights on effective campaign support. The episode emphasizes mobilizing the community, breaking the Republican supermajority, and fostering bipartisan dialogue, using tools like ActBlue and FundHero for campaign efficiency.
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    1 h y 49 m
  • Utah Understands The Assignment Livestream 8/2/24

    Utah Understands The Assignment Livestream 8/2/24
    Aug 3 2024
    We had an electrifying kickoff to the Utah Understands the Assignment series! 🙌 Our passionate speakers discussed the importance of community, democracy, and local action in support of Kamala Harris’s presidential run.

    🔊Highlights🔊

    - Drew Howells and Wendy Garvin ignited the event with powerful intros and stories.
    - Jade Velasquez, Salt Lake County Democratic Chair, inspired us with his grassroots organizing experiences.
    - Representative Angela Romero shared insights on state legislation, education, and the critical need to preserve our democracy.
    - Steve Merrell, running for House District 71, emphasized the necessity of breaking the supermajority and supporting local candidates.
    - Debra Gatrell, an incredible history teacher and Blackhawk pilot, broke down the nuances of tax reform and the importance of electing people of character. She is running for State Board of Education District 10

    We’re united by our passion for democracy and our commitment to positive change. 💪
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    1 h y 54 m