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When it comes to the selection of party candidates for the Presidency of the United States, Utah, historically, hasn't had much clout. Yet, there are significant local issues that affect the region and the nation that ought to be heard.
It is why KSL likes the idea of adding a Western Presidential Primary to the quadrennial election cycle.
The proposal got a boost during a recent symposium in Salt Lake City with the republican governor of Utah and democratic governor of New Mexico doing much of the cheerleading. Their arguments make sense. Without a timely presidential primary in the region, the west will continue to be an irrelevant "fly-over zone" as candidates shuttle between states and regions with meaningful contests.
Vital regional issues such as water development, nuclear waste storage, and public land use deserve higher status on the national agenda. A strategically timed presidential primary would help bring that about.
As of now, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona are gearing for a February 5, 2008 event. KSL encourages more states in the region to get onboard. Another presidential election cycle shouldn't pass without this rapidly growing, yet over-looked region being given the attention it deserves by those who would become President of the United States.
