Written by: Kristine Pratt
ontherecord@abc4.com
Many political analysts believe firmly in the affect that the Tea Party had on the 2010 election. Many people wanted a change in their government, and that's what they got. A massive political shake up as all the new politicians took their seats in January. One of the casualties here in Utah included incumbent Senator Bob Bennett. But now we're looking ahead to 2012. The organizer of the Tea Party here in Utah, David Kirkham, goes On the Record to talk about those up for reelection next year.
Orrin Hatch: Kirkam says that Hatch has done a great job of reaching out to people in the Tea Party movement. But he still wonders if it's enough to carry him through to the convention. Kirkham says that it depends on who runs against him.
"It's part of the process," Kirkham says. "I think all politicians should always be challenged. It turns them into better candidates."
Governor Gary Herbert: "I think that Governor Herbert will have a very tough time in 2012. He will definitely be challenged."
Kirkham says that part of the problem was some of the bills pushed through during this year's legislative session. Including House Bill 477, and the immigration bill 116.
"The process on 116 and 477, were rushed through very very quickly. The process is very important." Those bills passed through the legislature in the final hours amid some controversy. Kirkham says "All these bills deserve to be seen in the light of day."
And when comparing Sen. Hatch and Gov. Herbert, Kirkham says that the Governor is much more vulnerable by far.
Mitt Romney: “I speak with Tea Party members across the country… I honestly don’t feel like he has a chance. I don’t think he’ll have any Tea Party support at all.”
Jason Chaffetz: “I don’t think he really knows what he’s going to do. I think he’ll probably stay in the 3rd district.”
But for now, only time will tell what the voters think as the election draws closer and closer.
