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Hinckley Institute in the news

December 21, 2007: "Huckabee's tenure as governor saw many gifts bestowed on Arkansas official" by Julia Malone (Kansas City Star)..."Most governors in this day and age become much more circumspect in what they accept, if only to avoid the appearance of impropriety,” said Kirk Jowers, who specializes in political law at the Washington, D.C., firm of Caplin & Drysdale."

December 18, 2007: "A Hispanic cleric criticizes Romney's stance on illegals" by Deborah Bulkeley (Deseret Morning News)..."Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah and a Romney supporter, has in the past spoken in favor of a Utah law that provides some undocumented college students in-state tuition. "Romney at his core is a brilliant problem solver, and I have a lot of faith in his ability to look at all sides of the issue and ultimately come up with a, perhaps, out-of-the-box solution that will deal wisely and compassionately with everyone involved," Jowers said."

December 17, 2007: "Question of ehtics: Developers defend campaign contributions, but some candidates spurn their cash" by Steve Gehrke (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Political expert Kirk Jowers points out that contributions are just part of the democratic process, and developers' involvement in government can be a good thing."

December 17, 2007: "Churchgoers should be politics-doers" by Kirk Jowers (Deseret Morning News)..."Beyond a new gym membership and vowing to lose 15 pounds, consider another New Year's resolution: political participation.
Not only is political involvement easier than giving up chocolate, there has never been a more exciting year to play a role in the American democratic process. We are in the middle of perhaps the most dramatic presidential race in recent history. The issues are momentous and the stakes are high. For the first time in decades there is no heir apparent. Political fortunes change daily. An increasingly electrifying race offers candidates who are as diverse as they are interesting — the first woman, black or Mormon president."

December 15, 2007: "Could Clinton be a disaster for Dems in West?" by Thomas Burr (Salt Lake Tribune)..."But Millin says that a Clinton presidential nomination could hurt such party momentum, a point also made by Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics. "It's mostly unfair, but Hillary does have an extraordinary amount of baggage in Utah and in the West," Jowers says. "All indicators are that this should be a strong year for Democrats, but I think the biggest fear for Utah and Western Democrats is that Hillary Clinton ends up versus Mitt Romney."

December 10, 2007: Current TV’s Scott Lambson interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers, Hinckley staff members, and University of Utah students regarding Utah political history, current trends, and the 2008 presidential election.

December 8, 2007: "Mitt's speech a big hit with Utahns" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret Morning News)..."Many Utahns have been startled to realize, Jowers said, that a significant core of the Republican Party believes that Mormons may not be eligible to be president because of their beliefs. "As American children, we always hear than anyone can grow up to be president, but LDS children were hearing, perhaps for the first time, that that aspiration didn't apply to them in the minds of some of the religious right," he said."

December 7, 2007: "Romney addresses faith" by Michael McFall (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."Students, professors and reporters gathered in the Hinckley Institute of Politics early Thursday morning to watch Romney's "Faith in America" address, expecting a disclosure of his specific spiritual beliefs and how they relate to his politics."

December 7, 2007: "Symphony of faith: Mormon candidate hails religious liberty" by Joe Pyrah (Provo Daily Herald)..."It definitely does not put the whole religion issue to rest," said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley
Institute of Politics at the University of Utah."

December 7, 2007: "Many Utahns think Romney struck balance" (Ogden Standard Examiner): "I thought he was sincere and earnest and hit the exact right balance," said Kirk Jowers, a Romney supporter who is director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.  "My observation so far, watching national pundits and bloggers, is that people, even skeptics, were very impressed with the speech," Jowers said.

December 7, 2007: Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers appeared on FOX 13's "Good Day Utah" to analyze the Romney’s “Faith in America” speech.

December 6, 2007: ABC 4, Salt Lake City - "Reaction to Romney's 'Faith' speech mixed" Kirk Jowers, Hinckley Institute of Politics, is quoted.

December 6, 2007: "Romney praised in Utah for avoiding specifics of mormonism" (KUTV Ch. 2 News)..."'I had no expectations that he would get into the theological weeds of Mormonism. There simply isn't the time to address all of the issues that some people may have with the Mormon faith,'' said Kirk Jowers, a Romney supporter and director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah."

December 6, 2007: KUER Metro News interviews Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, regarding implications of Romney’s speech.

December 6, 2007: "Romney, relenting, will talk about religion" by Thomas Fitzgerald (Philadelphia Inquirer)..."Running for president is a full-time reality show, and people expect all you've got," said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah."

December 6, 2007: KSL Radio's Mornings with Grant & Amanda interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers regarding his predictions of presidential candidate’s Mitt Romney’s “Faith in America” speech and the impact of his address.

December 6, 2007: KSL TV’s Carole Mikita broadcast from the Hinckley Institute Caucus Room during presidential candidate’s Mitt Romney’s “Faith in America” speech and interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers and University of Utah students regarding their reactions to the speech.

December 6, 2007: KSL Radio’s Adam Thomas broadcast from the Hinckley Institute Caucus Room during presidential candidate’s Mitt Romney’s “Faith in America” speech and interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers and University of Utah students regarding their reactions to the speech.

December 6, 2007: Channel 4 broadcast from the Hinckley Institute Caucus Room during presidential candidate’s Mitt Romney’s “Faith in America” speech and interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers and University of Utah students regarding their reactions to the speech.

December 6, 2007: Fox 13’s Nineveh Dinha broadcast from the Hinckley Institute Caucus Room during presidential candidate’s Mitt Romney’s “Faith in America” speech and interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers and University of Utah students regarding their reactions to the speech.

December 6, 2007: "Romney praised in Utah for avoiding specifics of Mormonism" (KMTV Ch. 11 News Idaho)..."Here's what some of them have to say: Romney supporter and Hinckley Institute of Politics head Kirk Jowers says Romney didn't have enough time to address all of the issues some people have with the Mormon faith."

December 6, 2007: Channel 2’s Ron Bird interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers and University of Utah students regarding their reactions to presidential candidate’s Mitt Romney’s “Faith in America” speech.

December 6, 2007: Mitt Romney is giving his "JFK Speech" on Thursday. Slipping in the polls with nearly a quarter saying they're reluctant to vote for Mormon candidate, Romney is formally addressing the issue of his religion. Doug talks to Ron Elving, senior Washington editor for NPR News, and Kirk Jowers of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics about the impact of Romney's remarks.

December 6, 2007: Delaware Radio Station WDEL’s Allan Loudel interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers regarding his presidential candidate’s Mitt Romney’s “Faith in America” speech.

December 6, 2007: "Romney seeks to calm fears over his faith" by Andrea Ward (MSNBC/Financial Times)..."Kirk Jowers, political scientist at the University of Utah, says Mr Romney must convince voters the LDS church will not have undue influence in a Romney administration, just as Mr Kennedy offered similar assurances about the Vatican. But he believes the main purpose of the speech should be to acknowledge differences between Mormonism and other Christian faiths, while stressing their shared values."

December 4, 2007: "Mitt's 'JFK' speech called 'wild gamble'" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret Morning News)..."It's probably the epitome of a high-stakes moment in a campaign," said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics and a Romney supporter. "He has the unenviable position of trying to strike the right balance."

December 4, 2007: "Romney to give religion speech" by Logan Molyneux and Joe Pyrah (Daily Herald)..."Kennedy gave a legitimately great speech. It's really like being asked to give the second Gettysburg address," said Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

December 3, 2007: "Voters, pundits, contemplate Romney's LDS speech" Brent Hunsaker reporting (ABC Ch. 4 Close to Home News)... “For example, Republicans pride themselves on family values,” said Kirk Jowers. Jowers is with the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics and a Romney supporter. “He is the best candidate to represent those family values – not in spite of his religion, but because of it.”

December 3, 2007: "Voters, pundits contemplate Romney's LDS speech" (ABC Ch. 4 News Utah) “For example, Republicans pride themselves on family values,” said Kirk Jowers. Jowers is with the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics and a Romney supporter. “He is the best candidate to represent those family values – not in spite of his religion, but because of it.”

December 3, 2007: "Political Experts Weigh in on Romney's Planned ‘Faith in America' Speech" Carole Mikita reporting (KSL Ch. 5 Eyewitness News)... "It's not for the faint of heart," Kirk Jowers, of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, said. 'I think the advisers were nervous to have him do it because it really is, it does have some high stakes to it. I think Romney will do a masterful job with it, but ... there's certainly an easier way to go, which is not giving the speech.'"  

December 3, 2007: "Romney to speak on how Mormon faith might guide Presidency" by Thomas Burr (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Romney has wanted to give this speech for some time, according to supporter Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics. Advisers may be saying don't do it, Jowers says, but, "This is Romney saying, 'I'm going to run the race the way I want to, and I'll take the consequences."

December 3, 2007: KCPW's (Utah 's NPR station) Bryan Schott interviewed Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding the early states’ presidential horse-race.

December 3, 2007: KSL Radio's Andrew Adams interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding the Romney "JFK" speech.

December 2, 2007: Fox 13 Evening News’s Max Roth interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding Mitt Romney’s announcement that he will deliver a speech titled “Faith in America” at the George Bush Presidential Library in College Station, Texas, on Thursday.

December 2, 2007: Fox 13 Evening News’s Max Roth interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers for a national and local feed regarding the impact of the Western states’ early presidential primaries.

November 30, 2007: "Symposium examines social justice" by Clayton Norlen (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."The event, 'Exploring Social Justice: a student symposium on social justice issues,' starts today at 1 p.m. in the Hinckley Institute of Politics. The symposium will provide a platform for students enrolled in the course Historic and Contemporary Issues in Social Justice to share their research with the public."

November 29, 2007: "U. symposium on social justice set" (Deseret Morning News)..."Several issues will be discussed at the two-day forum, the free forum is Friday from 1 to 4 p.m. at the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics in room 253 of the U.'s Orson Spencer Hall, and Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Salt Lake City Library, rooms A and B, at 210 E. 400 South. The symposium is free and open to the public."

November 29, 2007: "Scholar identifies roots of radical Islam" by Clayton Norlen (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."Lebel, a senior fellow of the Atlantic Council of the United States, spoke about radical Islam in Europe and the strain between European nationals and Muslim immigrants at the U's Hinckley Institute of Politics on Wednesday. She said the cause of strain is rooted in immigrants' resistance to integration."

November 29, 2007: "Utah Muslims are perplexed by Mitt" by Deborah Bulkeley and Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret Morning News)..."'Ijaz simply got it wrong,' said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics and a Romney supporter who worked for the candidate as head of his former political action committee. "I'm obviously biased," Jowers said, "but in my 13 years of knowing Mitt Romney and watching how he works, the comment attributed to him would be so completely out of character, it doesn't pass the straight-face test to me."

November 29, 2007: "Social Justice according to students" (webwire)..."The two-day event, titled "Exploring Social Justice: a student symposium on social justice issues" will take place Friday, Nov. 30 from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Hinckley Institute of Politics in Orson Spencer Hall, room 253 on the University of Utah Campus and Saturday, Dec. 1 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Salt Lake City Main Library room A and B on 210 East, 400 South. The symposium is free and open to the public."

November 27, 2007: "Back from Iraq, Huntsman says that war-torn nation must 'get its act together'" by Matthew D. LaPlante (Salt Lake Tribune)..."And that means his words will likely have little effect on Iraq's leaders, said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. "As the governor of the reddest state in the nation and most supporting of President Bush and the Iraq war, what he says is perhaps enlightening," Jowers said."

November 24, 2007: Fox 13 Evening News’s Max Roth interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding the importance Utah’s significant contributions to presidential candidates.

November 23, 2007: "Utah Primary: Tight races could make state's delegated golden" by Thomas Burr (Salt Lake Tribune)..."'Utah will be an important supporting actor to the bigger states,' says Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. "If it is still up in the air on Feb. 5 who the parties' nominees will be, then Utah will play a role because the result in Utah will absolutely be part' of the puzzle."

November 21, 2007: "Matheson: Congress politicizing Iraq" by Dustin Gardiner (Daily Utah Chronicle)...'By overpoliticizing the debate about the war in Iraq, both Democrats and Republicans are making it difficult to find a solution to the conflict, Utah Congressman Jim Matheson said. . . .  Matheson, who represents Utah's 2nd District in the U.S. House of Representatives, made his comments during a forum at the U's Hinckley Institute of Politics on Tuesday."

November 21, 2007: Fox 13 Evening News’s Max Roth interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding the implications of the Michigan Supreme Court’s ruling that the Jan. 15 presidential primary could go forward.

November 18, 2007: Hinckley Fellow Lee Hamilton discusses American foreign policy including the Iraq War and the looming threat posed by Iran on ABC 4’s On the Record with Chris Vanocur on Sunday, November 18th at 9:30 am.

November 13th, 2007: " Mayor-Elect Working to Update Domestic Partnership Policies" Richard Piatt reporting (KSL Ch. 5 Eyewitness News)... "The progressive community, the lesbian-gay community, is a powerful force in city politics," explained Kirk Jowers, of the Hinckley Institute of Politics."

November 13, 2007: "Voucher referendum reveals disconnect between elected officials, voters" by Robert Gehrke (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Of all the members, Curtis may be the legislator most at risk, says Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah."

November 11, 2007: Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers will provided election commentary on ABC 4’s On the Record with Chris Vanocur on Sunday, November 11th at 9:30 am.

November 9, 2007: Hinckley Fellow Lee Hamilton discusses American foreign policy including the Iraq War and the looming threat posed by Iran on Utah Now (Ch. 7) on Friday, November 9th at 8:30pm.

November 8, 2007: "Democrats could capitalize on voucher defeat" by Dustin Gardiner (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."'This could be a moment for the Democrats to make up some seats, but again it's always seat by seat, so a wave doesn't mean as much as you think because redistricting...takes a lot of impact out of a wave,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute."

November 7, 2007: Fox 13 Evening News’s Max Roth interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers for a national feed regarding the impact of the nation's first statewide voucher program being soundly defeated at Utah polls.

November 7, 2007: "The Votes are In, What Happens Now?" Richard Piatt and Nicole Gonzales reporting (KSL Ch. 5 Eyewitness News)..."Kirk Jowers, Hinckley Institute of Politics, says, "It certainly shows that the Democratic brand is on the rise and that this race mattered to the Democrats. It's a non-partisan race, but I was at the Bill Clinton event and when Ralph Becker walked in and got a standing ovation, it was clear that this is very much a partisan race to those in the party."

November 7, 2007: "Election 2007: Who Won And Why?" Live KCPW/Hinckley Institute Brodcast featuring Dr. Dan Jones, President of Dan Jones and Associates, Kirk Jowers, Director of The Hinckley Institute of Politics, Paul Rolly, Salt Lake Tribune, and Bryan Schott, Moderator, KCPW Radio.

November 7, 2007: "Rocky taking flak for failure of public safety bond" by Jeremiah Stettler (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Even Kirk Jowers, director of the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics, said Anderson had done a "disservice to democracy" by springing his opposition less than a week before the vote - a move he believes pushed the "no" votes over the top."

November 7, 2007: "Voters Reject Vouchers" by Joe Pyrah (Daily Herald)..."'Huntsman has tried his best to skate through this vote without leaving any marks,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. 'He may get away with it this time, but I think there will be increasing scrutiny on him in the future on whether he will stand up for causes in which he is associated.'

November 7, 2007: "Vouchers Dead" by Tiffany Erickson and Bob Bernick, Jr. (Deseret Morning News)..."'In money spent it may be unparalleled in Utah, but I think what this lacked is feeling that it was ever a true contest in these past six months,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Political Institute. 'There was never a feeling that it was a legitimate contest.'

November 7, 2007: "Ralph Becker: I want us to succeed together" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said Becker benefited from being non-Mormon, pro-environment and even-tempered. 'It was Becker and not Buhler who was seen as the anti-Rocky as far as his approach,' Jowers said. "Becker was able to win over the get-rid-of-Rocky crowd."

November 7, 2007: "Becker's problem solver style spurs hope for less adversarial administration" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Still, Kirk Jowers, director of the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics, says the rap on Becker is that he has not been very effective on Capitol Hill. "It is imperative that he shows some accomplishments early to dispel that," Jowers says. "His worst-case scenario: He becomes the Jimmy Carter presidency - a bright, affable man who is not able to move the ball."

November 7, 2007: Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers appeared on FOX 13's "Good Day Utah" to analyze the 2007 election results.

November 6, 2007: Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers appeared in studio as the political analyst for Fox 13 Evening News’s election night coverage.

November 6, 2007: "Voucher Issue Drawing Voters to Polls" Tonya Papanikolas and Mary Richards reporting (KSL Ch. 5 Eyewitness News)..."This voucher issue has cost a lot of money for both camps. So far, they've spent over $8 million on things like ads. The Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics says that's unprecedented. "I'm not aware of anything in the past that would equal the money and volunteer hours that have been spent on this voucher issue," Director Kirk Jowers said."

November 5, 2007: KUED’s Newsbreak (Ch. 9) will broadcasted pre-election coverage, including analysis by HIP Director Kirk Jowers on Monday, November 5th at 10:00 pm.

November 4, 2007: Fox 13 Evening News’s Max Roth interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding the newest polls regarding vouchers.

November 3, 2007: Fox 13 Evening News’s Max Roth interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding the newest polls regarding the Salt Lake City mayoral contest.

November 3, 2007: "Vouchers appear doomed" by Tiffancy Erickson and Bob Bernick, Jr. (Deseret Morning News)..."'Voucher people have to have an almost mystical belief in their ability to get this vote to overcome the consistency of this 20-point deficit,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. 'It's quite remarkable to have so many polls remain almost identical for almost five months — typically you see little bumps and spikes (in different polls) depending on the news, but this seems to show that people are pretty settled on this,' he said.

November 2, 2007: "Poll: Bush support wavers in Utah" (ABC 4 News)..."'That's a striking number,' Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said of the 21 percent. 'Especially because I think people have adjusted their expectations - and their definition of success - significantly downward at this point,' he said.

November 2, 2007: "'Bush's job rating falls in Utah, poll finds" Associated Press (Daily Herald)...""That's a striking number,' Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said of the 21 percent. 'Especially because I think people have adjusted their expectations -- and their definition of success -- significantly downward at this point,' he said."

November 2, 2007: "Even in Republican Utah, support for Iraq War and Bush fading" by Matthew D. LaPlante (Salt Lake Tribune)..."'Nothing seems to put a dent in Utah's support for President Bush,' Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, marveled at the time of the president's visit. But Jowers also noted that he had found "even in talking to strong supporters of the president, people are almost in despair over the war.'"

November 1, 2007: "Getting out the vote" by Loretta Park (Ogden Standard Examiner)..."Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, said the traditional low turnout in odd-year elections usually makes it easier for incumbents to stay in office."

November 1, 2007: "Voucher Issue Spawns Scores of Debates" Julie Rose reporting (KCPW)..."Jowers heads the U of U's Hinckley Institute of Politics, which held one of the first voucher debates of the campaign season. The nature of the debates has changed little over the last month, but Jowers says both sides have become increasingly eager to face off in live forums."

November 1, 2007: "Former Iraq study group co-chair speaks at U" by Dustin Gardiner (Daily Utah Chronile)..."Hamilton made his comments before a full audience at the U's Hinckley Institute of Politics on Wednesday. He is the institute's "Hinckley Fellow" for 2007."

November 1, 2007: Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers was the guest for an hour with  K-talk radio's Mark Maxon where they discussed state, local, and national politics.

November 1, 2007: "Senator Hatch shares the wealth with GOPs" by Matt Canham (Salt Lake Tribune)..."'I think any high-ranking public official needs to consider the implications of their interactions and associations,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'But the worst-case scenarios are not as bad for [Hatch] when he says, 'Hey, I'm going to give my colleague the benefit of the doubt.' "

November 1, 2007: "Tribune poll: Becker has big lead entering last days of SLC mayoral sweepstakes" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Still, the poll has to be disheartening to Buhler, according to Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. "When you're the underdog, you don't need to be leading in these polls, but you have to show some momentum," Jowers said. "Buhler will have to have the most incredible get-out-the-vote effort this state has ever seen."

October 31, 2007: "Talk of Iran war Criticized" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret Morning News)..."Now head of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, D.C., Hamilton is also scheduled to speak at the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics at 10:45 a.m. Wednesday. His talk will be open to the public."

October 31, 2007: 'Diplomacy expert: Times are tough abroad, but don't despair" by Matthew D. LaPlante (Salt Lake Tribune)..."You'd understand if Lee Hamilton's speech today at the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics was fixed upon failure. Instead, the respected foreign policy expert planned to focus on the future."

October 30, 2007: "Study Co-chair saddened by slow progeess in Iraq" Chris Vanocur reporting (ABC Ch. 4 News)..."The former congressman is in town to speak at the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics."

October 30, 2007: Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers appeared on FOX 13's "Good Day Utah" to preview the Salt Lake City mayoral race and Utah voucher vote.

October 29, 2007: "Salt Lake candidates view for student vote" by Wendy Leonard (Deseret Morning News)..."A straw poll organized by the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the U. shows that Becker is a favorite among students there, getting 45 percent of the 1,768 votes cast. Buhler was not far behind, capturing 42 percent of the vote. Referendum 1 was not favored, getting only 30 percent in favor of the idea, and the favorite presidential candidate was Mitt Romney, who got nearly 31 percent of the student vote. Barack Obama wasn't far behind, with 28 percent of the total votes cast."

October 29, 2007: "Dumbledore is Gay!?" by Nicholas Pappas (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."I guess not. Just last week the Hinckley Institute of Politics hosted a forum to debate Amendment Three, a nonsensical bill with the sole point of redefining marriage as a union between a man and a woman."

October 28, 2007: "Becker: A personal touch delivered at a relentless pace" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)..."'Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, says Becker's 'retail' campaign is the best he has seen in a while. 'His door-to-door efforts have been absolutely remarkable,' Jowers says. 'People like him. They trust him. He doesn't want to make a big mistake, and he's not the type of person who would,' Jowers adds.

October 28, 2007: "Buhler: The man who would rewrite SLC history" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)..."'There's a real fine line for how aggressive-negative he can go to take down Becker without taking down himself," says Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.'"

October 27, 2007: "BYU student does book on Obama" by Laura Hancock (Deseret Morning News)..."Kirk Jowers, a political science professor and director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said Obama connects to young people better than other presidential candidates."

October 26, 2007: "U students pick Becker over Buhler - barely" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)..."The Hinckley Institute of Politics poll shows 45 percent support Becker, 42 percent prefer Buhler, and 12 percent are undecided or voted for "other." A total of 1,768 students cast votes in the straw poll, conducted at the college campus Oct. 16-25."

October 26, 2007: "Poll guages U's political views" by Dustin Gardiner (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."The U's Hinckley Institute of Politics collected 1,768 surveys for its first student straw poll. Students responded to the survey in class or online."

Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk L. Jowers spoke at the Timpanogas Club meeting at the Alta Club on October 25 regarding the 2007 Salt Lake City mayoral and 2008 presidential campaigns.

October 25, 2007: "Lt. Governor says voters like new machines" by Dustin Gardiner (Daily Utah Chroncile)..."Herbert gave a rosy description of the Utah election system during a talk at the Hinckley Institute of Politics on Tuesday. The Utah Constitution charges the lieutenant governor with overseeing all state elections."

October 25, 2007: "City Council candidates debate liquor laws, transportaion' by Constance Yonoshiro (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."The debate, hosted by the Hinckley Institute of Politics, highlighted the candidates' different styles of debating and views on key issues."

October 24, 2007: "U poll targets mayor's race" (Deseret Morning News)..."The University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics is hosting a straw poll this week to find out students' opinions of the Salt Lake City mayor's race, the issue of school vouchers and the 2008 presidential election."

October 23, 2007: TV 20’s “The Breakdown” interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding state, local, and national politics and the impact of religion.

October 22, 2007: "U of U Straw Poll May Predict Youth Vote in Coming Elections" by Julie Rose (KCPW News)..."About two-thousand University of Utah students are expected to participate in a straw poll this week to gauge where they stand on the hottest issues of the election: 'Who they support in the Salt Lake City Mayor's race. Whether or not they support education vouchers and who they supprt in the 2008 Presidential election,' says Bryson Morgan, who is directing this first-ever straw poll for the Hinckley Institute of Politics."

October 20, 2007: "Polls show vouchers losing by wide margin" by Tiffany Erickson (Deseret Morning News)..."'Dan Jones has such an incredible history of accuracy over the last 30 years that his polls alone are very powerful ... and then you add another respected organization poll to it that comes so close to his — that adds even more credibility to the results," said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics.'"

October 20, 2007: "Sexual politics are still building in Utah" by Steve Fidel (Deseret Morning News)..."Conservative legislators and advocacy groups and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints were selected as targets for the political activism, though members of a panel speaking at the Hinckley Institute of Politics said they have seen positive changes in the way the LDS Church and its members discuss homosexual and transgender issues."

Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk L. Jowers spoke at the College of Social and Behavioral Science Advisory Board meeting on October 19 regarding city and national campaigns and the policy implications of the leading candidates.

October 18, 2007: "Utah takes small, slow, steps on gays" by Rebecca Walsh (Salt Lake Tribune)..."'Until Utah's Constitution changes,' Equality Utah Public Policy Manager Will Carlson told a crowd at the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics this week, 'Utahns are going to have to face these questions: Do gays and lesbians deserve to parent? Do gays and lesbians deserve to inherit? Do gays and lesbians deserve to work and insure each other?'"

October 18, 2007: "Taiwan says China threatens international security" by Lana Groves (Daily Utah Chroncle)..."Wu made his comments during a forum at the Hinckley Institute of Politics yesterday. He discussed Taiwan's support of U.S. policy and concerns over relations with China."

October 17, 2007: "Activists Talk about Gay Marriage Ban" by Clayton Norlen (Daily Utah Chroncle)..."Yesterday, the Hinckley Institute of Politics, in coordination with the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Resource Center, hosted a forum to debate the controversial amendment."

October 17, 2007: "Internet on Campus: U Podcasts Provide Anytime Access to Speakers, Events" by Parker Williams (Daily Utah Chronicle)..." Smith said one of the most proactive podcasting groups on campus is the Hinckley Institute of Politics. "We have so many students and other people say, 'Oh, wish I could come to the forums, but I have a class,'" said Jayne Nelson, assistant director of the Hinckley Institute. "(Podcasting) is a way that they can access things that they're interested in that they might not be able to come (to) in person."

October 16, 2007: "The Honorable Lee Hamilton to visit Campus" U of U FYI..."Lee Hamilton, vice-chairman of the  9/11 Commission and member of the President’s Homeland Security Advisory Council, will speak on “The Future of American Foreign Policy” on Wednesday, Oct. 31 at 10:45 a.m. in the Hinckley Institute of Politics caucus room (OSH 255). Lee Hamilton’s presentation is sponsored by the Sam Rich Program in International Politics."

October 15, 2007: "Developer cash flows into Eagle Mountain races" by Amy Choate-Nielsen (Deseret Morning News)..."Utah law doesn't limit from whom candidates can receive campaign money, but political analysts say candidates should be wary of accepting funds that may have invisible strings attached to them. Accepting a majority of funds from one source can also have an unwitting impact on elected officials, says Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics."

October 14, 2007: "Do hopefuls walk their talk" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Mayoral hopefuls Ralph Becker and Dave Buhler chat before a debate,at the Hinckley Institute of Politics Wednesday"

October 13, 2007: "Iraq Exit Splits Utahns" by Bob Bernick, Jr. (Deseret Morning News)..."Utah appears to be at the tail end of the (anti-war) wave" moving across the nation, said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. Utahns are moving into an anti-war, bring-the-troops-home mind-set, he added. "Utah has been Bush's last stand" — the reddest of the red states that still support the president's war policies, Jowers said. "We are more forgiving of the president's Iraq policies than any other state" in the nation."

October 12, 2007: "Nuances of Vouchers Elude Many" by Tiffany Erickson (Deseret Morning News)..." Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, said on this issue there is a bell curve of voter knowledge. "You have that small percentage on each side who understand this issue incredibly well and are deeply passionate about their position and then it filters from there to people who know just enough to be dangerous to those who really don't know anything at all," Jowers said."

October 8, 2007 Issue "Campaign '08: The Making of Mitt Romney" by Jonathan Darman and Lisa Miller (Newsweek)..."'If you choose not to talk about the church and focus solely on Romney's business and political abilities, you deny the public anopportunity to know him as intimately as the public demands of its front runners,' says Kirk Jowers, director of the Republican Commonwealth PAC and a Romney supporter."

October 7, 2007: "Utahns want crackdown on illegal immigration" by Deborah Bulkeley and Nancy Perkins (Deseret Morning News)..." Only 18 percent said they'd be less likely to vote for a get-tough candidate. Another 11 percent said they didn't know. The results seem to indicate most people recognize a problem and want a solution, said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics. "I think what the question does not answer is what form that solution will take," he said. "Utahns have shown they are sympathetic to the children of illegal immigrants and giving them opportunities, but they certainly want people to abide by the law and favor legal immigrants over illegal immigrants."

October 5, 2007: "Polls Show Romney Still Attracting National Attention" Richard Piatt Reporting (KSL Ch. 5 Eyewitness News)..."Former Romney associate Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics is quoted in the article as saying, "The challenge for him is that it's critical that he is known for all his other accomplishments and how he will lead the country. But then that leaves the press feeling a little hollow because they want to really get into the Mormon issue."

October 5, 2007: "We made mistakes, Utah corrections chief says" by Pat Reavy (Deseret Morning News)..."Patterson was the guest forum speaker at the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. He said while some information must be kept secret for security, a prison must be transparent, or open, to the public so Utahns can better understand the prison and its needs."

October 3, 2007: "Buhler takes Jabs at Becker's Record" by Dustin Gardiner (Dailu Utah Chrinlicle)..."The race for Salt Lake City Mayor has been characterized as a competition between two nice guys. But that friendly image didn't seem to prevent the candidates from engaging one another during a debate at the Hinckley Institute of Politics on Tuesday."

October 3, 2007: "Law on illegal immigration touted" by Deborah Bulkeley (Deseret Morning News)..."Given that Utah lawmakers have in the past taken a more moderate approach to dealing with the issue, it's not clear how much support Hickman's bill would garner, said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics."

October 2, 2007: "Becker, Buhler go toe-to-toe at Hinckley Institute debate" by Jared Page (Deseret Morning News)..."The Salt Lake City mayoral candidates cushioned their blows with smiles and laughter during a debate at the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, each delivering shots akin to the playful punches from one fraternity brother to another."

October 1, 2007: Fox 13 Evening News’s Katy Carlyle interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding the newest polls about President Bush, the war in Iraq, and 2008 presidential candidates.

September 30, 2007: "Voucher voters to sway unrelated races this November" by Steve Gehrke (Salt Lake Tribune)... "The good news about the vouchers, and all the money going into it, is that it will absolutely increase voter turnout," said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. "Odd election years are always difficult to get people out, as opposed to a presidential election year like 2008, which should be an exciting year. So the real question is: Who does it turn out?"

September 28, 2007: Hinckley Institute of Politics director Kirk Jowers is interviewed by Fox News' Major Garrett about presidential candidate Mitt Romney's fundraising. "I'm sure there have been political consultants who said you would be hands down the nominee if you would just get this mill stone of your religion off your neck. And he said in debates and everywhere that he embraces his religion," Jowers said.

September 28, 2007: "Buhler comes out swinging in SLC mayoral race, lashes Becker's record" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)...'Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, says Buhler's offensive clearly establishes that - in this officially nonpartisan race - one candidate is a Republican while the other is a Democrat. "It is a little bit risky," Jowers said. "He could have easily just given his six [initiatives] and see if that would linger. But he brought it [Becker's record] up and that fairly puts the partisan issue on the table. That probably will be what sticks in people's minds."

September 27, 2007: "Late U. prof leaves D.C. legacy" by Thomas Burr (Deseret Morning News)..." Williams initiated the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics intern program in Washington, D.C., when he led the political science center in the early 1970s and since then more than 2,000 students have had a chance to work in the nation's capital. Students have spent time working at the White House, Congress and U.S. Supreme Court, along with ABC News, various committees, lobbying firms, non-profits and policy think tanks. These opportunities have led many to continue lives in public service and stay involved in politics."

September 27, 2007: "Comcast to offer voucher debate" (Deseret Morning News)..."The debate, which was hosted this month by the University of Utah's Hinckley Forum, featured spokesman for Parents for Choice in Education Richard Eyre, who argued in support of the program, and Carol Spackman Moss, D-Holladay, who serves on the House Education committee and taught for 33 years in Utah's public schools."

September 25, 2007: "U.S. Warned not to neglect Africa" by Lee Davidson (Deseret Morning News)..."Sir James R. Mancham was the first president of the Seychelles, a former British colony in the Indian Ocean, in 1976-77. He was deposed while on a trip to London as opponents accused him of being a lackey of the West, in part for helping build a U.S. tracking station there that helped spy on the old Soviet Union. Mancham said in a speech at the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the U., where he was introduced by Price, that the United States is making some serious diplomatic mistakes in Africa, including the Seychelles.

September 24, 2007: "Community Remembers J.D. Williams" by Dustin Gardiner (Daily Utah Chronicle)...Williams died on Sept. 4 at age 81 after battling cancer for years. He served as the founding director of the Hinckley Institute and unsuccessfully ran for political office, including the U.S. Senate, several times as a Democrat.

September 24, 2007: "Political races a sure bet? Check Web" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret Morning News)..."It's kind of a fun thing to play with, and of course, it's the people who are political junkies who typically do," said Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. "I am a big believer in finding all sorts of ways to make politics more interesting to students and the community. I think the markets do that," Jowers said. "People who are into stocks pay more attention because the format is something they understand."

September 23, 2007: "Friends recall prof's passion for students" by Lesley Mitchell (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Williams, the first director of the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics, died of cancer Sept. 3. He was 81. "His passion for his students was unmatched," said U. President Michael Young, one of several speakers at the memorial service, noting Williams saw those he taught as future "mayors, senators, presidents."

September 21, 2007: "Hundreds honor Rampton" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret Morning News)..." Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said Rampton's lying in state at the mansion helps put politics in perspective. "These opportunities to remember our leaders are important, and they are unifying," Jowers said. "To have such a well-respected leader lie in state gives us another opportunity to remember the partisan divisions are not nearly so deep as they seem. "I hope it gives us a chance to realize we truly are Utahns before we are Democrats or Republicans."

September 21, 2007: "Council-race opponents Saxton, Garrott divided on downtown project" by Jared Page (Deseret Morning News)..."Hearing the 39-year-old University of Utah political science professor described as "country" spurred a smattering of chuckles among the mostly college-student crowd Thursday at the Hinckley Institute of Politics, but Saxton made her point.

September 21, 2007: "Garrott and Saxton differ on how to rejuvenate downtown" by Dustin Gardiner (Daily Utah Chronicle)...'The two candidates running for the District 4 council seat similarly stressed the need to revitalize downtown, expand mass transit and create affordable housing during a forum at the Hinckley Institute of Politics on Thursday."

September 20, 2007: "News: Votes "R" Us" by Ted McDonough (SL Weekly)..." For September’s primary election, three groups became official sponsors of Salt Lake County polling places: Manpower Temporary Services, the Applied Technology College and the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, where students touted the Partners in Democracy concept to fellow students."

September 18, 2007: "J.D. Williams 1926-2007" (U of U FYI Newsletter)..."The Hinckley Institute of Politics joins with thousands of former colleagues, students and interns in mourning the passing of J.D. Williams—the founding director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, serving from 1965 to 1975."

September 18, 2007: "Family, friends, colleagues pay tribute, share memories of Rampton" by Steve Fidel (Deseret Morning News)..."He worked so well with members of both parties, he was extraordinary," said Wilson, who after his mayorship ran the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics. "He was an amazingly kind man. A great sense of humor, who told wonderful stories."

September 17, 2007: "Voices: Get out the Vote People" by Marko Mijic (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."The partners of VoteProject include The Associated Students of the University of Utah government relations board, the Hinckley Institute of Politics, the Hinckley Institute Student Alliance, College Democrats, College Republicans, the Roosevelt Institute, the Marriott Library, Public Interest Advocacy and the OrangeBand Initiative."

September 17, 2007: "Utah leaders praise former Gov. Rampton" by Steve Fidel (Deseret Morning News)..."He worked so well with members of both parties, he was extraordinary," said Wilson, who after his mayorship ran the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics. "He was an amazingly kind man. A great sense of humor, who told wonderful stories."

September 14, 2007: "Women Play Small Role in Utah Politics" Richard Piatt reporting (KSL Ch. 5 Eyewitness News) Political analyst Kirk Jowers... "I think Senator Clinton's issue will not be gender if she loses. In fact, the smart money will be to bet that Clinton will be the next president, if you look at polling and trends," he said."

September 13, 2007: "Final stretch: No easy sailing" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)..."His struggle for the next two months is to meet as many people as possible," says Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. "Buhler needs to run a very aggressive out-of-the-box campaign to have a chance." That said, the two-term city councilman should not go negative, Jowers says, unless he is desperately behind near the Nov. 6 finish. Jowers notes Becker, the Utah House Democratic leader, enjoys all the momentum, swung a "huge number" of undecided residents in this week's primary, and has a motivated core of voters from his Avenues-Capitol Hill district. "Becker needs to continue walking the pavement and show that he is not taking this race for granted," Jowers says. "The most important thing is that he not act like the foreordained winner."

September 13, 2007: "Wilson's tumble from front-runner to also-ran is mayoral primary mystery" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Wilson was an attractive contender, but never seemed to connect beyond her initial backers, according to Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. He notes published polls always pegged her support near a quarter of the overall vote. In the end, she snagged 23 percent - behind Becker's 39 percent and Buhler's 28 percent. "Jenny was never able to expand her reach," Jowers said. "It killed her in the end."

September 12, 2007: "In Depth: U Makes International Push" by Rochelle McConkie (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."The Hinckley Institute of Politics added 16 international internships this year, and some countries, such as China, have internships in multiple locations. This expansion was largely made possible by a $200,000 donation from the Li Ka Shing Foundation, named after the wealthiest philanthropist in Asia."

September 12, 2007: "New Asia Center Created" by Clayton Norlen (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."The Asia Center will work alongside the Hinckley Institute of Politics to create additional internship programs in Asian countries. These programs will attempt to place students among multinational corporations, government ministries and other organizations."

September 12, 2007: "Campaigns feel the effects of Hsu case" by Justin Sullivan (Los Angeles Times)..."The presidential candidate did not return an additional $5,000 Mower gave to a Romney-controlled committee last year, after Mower was convicted. Attorney Kirk Jowers, who oversees the committee, said Tuesday that he would review the Mower donation."

September 12, 2007: "Becker, Buhler have come a long way" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)..."His door-to-door efforts started early and remained steady. But the Utah House Democratic leader also did the best targeting key interest groups, according to Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics."

September 12, 2007: "SLC mayoral contest: it's down to Becker and Buhler" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Conventional wisdom was that the op-ed could give Wilson, who has two boys 5 and 2, a "mommy bounce" - a sympathy vote. But the reverse may have proved true. Or, as Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers opined, Wilson's support simply had 'plateaued.'"

September 11, 2007: "Low voter turnout is likely" by Tad Walch (Deseret Morning News)..."It seems to me in this mayoral race, there's no excuse (not to vote)," said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. "Two of the four candidates will advance to the general election, and fewer than 100 votes could make the difference."

September 11, 2007: "Blogger will kick off September Project" by Clayton Norlen (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."Today in the Hinckley Institute of Politics Caucus Room (OSH Room 255), Silver will give the lecture why I blog and why you should blog from 11:50 a.m. to 12:55 p.m. as part of the project that begins today on campus.'

September 10, 2007: KSL Radio's Afternoon News with Scott & Maria interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers regarding the 2007 Salt Lake City mayoral primary election.

September 7, 2007: "Voucher Season Starts with Clash" by Glen Warchol (Salt Lake Tribune)..."The debate Thursday at the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics was the first face-to-face clash of the voucher-referendum season that will end with a vote in November. Despite plenty of time for answers, an audience of college students and a pile of Oreo cookies as a teaching aide, the debate didn't change anyone's mind."

September 7, 2007: "Sides Square Off in School-Voucher Debate" by Tiffany Erickson (Deseret Morning News)..."Thursday the Hinckley Institute of Politics held a debate to give students and the public a little more insight on the voucher issue. Rep. Carol Spackman Moss, D-Holladay, who opposes the voucher program, and Richard Eyre, a longtime school choice advocate, voucher supporter and former gubernatorial candidate, squared off front of more than 100 students and community members."

September 5, 2007: "J.D. Williams: U professor lit up Utah politics" (Salt Lake Tribune)..."As founding director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, he guided countless forums, debates and seminars with local, state and national political figures. He landed internships and opportunities for study abroad for kids from across the political spectrum. Among those interns was Rove."

September 5, 2007: "U. professor a witty voice in Utah politics" by Paul Rolly (Salt Lake Tribune)..."J.D. was the perfect individual to run the institute at its onset," said current Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers. "His activism caused consternation among Republicans and conservatives, but it showed the students that he cared about participating in politics. He was willing to act on his principles rather than merely speak in class. That is the spirit that Mr. Hinckley wanted. If the director was just an academic not willing to fully engage on behalf of principles, candidates and positions, the heart of the institute may have been lost before it ever got started."

September 5, 2007: "University of Utah political professor, mentor J.D. Williams dies' Twila Van Leer (Deseret Morning News)..."From 1965 to 1975, Dr. Williams was director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, providing the "vision and passion" that gave life to the institute, said Kirk L. Jowers, the institute's current director. The institute "joins with thousands of former colleagues, students and interns in mourning the passing" of Dr. Williams, Jowers said. The late professor's "lasting legacy" will be his role in transforming the "best and brightest students at the university into some of the nation's most influential and valued public servants." "The political landscape of our state and nation will echo with J.D.'s fervor and zeal for generations as thousands of his students on the left and right fulfill his vision of passionate public service and devotion to our founding constitutional principles."

September 5, 2007: "J.D. Williams passes away" by Clayton Norlen (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."JD was the perfect choice to lead the Hinckley Institute to maturity," said Kirk Jowers, the current director of the Hinckley Institute. "He was beloved by students, respected by staff and well known in the community for his political activism and ideas."

September 5, 2007: "Fred Heads to party when bid is official" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret Morning News)..."But that isn't likely to last for many Thompson backers, said Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics and a longtime Romney supporter. Thompson "is the proverbial empty vessel," Jowers said. "Fred is well-known from his TV and movie appearances and certainly has a charismatic, appealing presence," Jowers said, mostly as a result of having "not been scrutinized. Therefore, Republicans can fill him up with all of their beliefs and hopes."

September 5, 2007: KSL Radio's Greg Neft interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding the Salt Lake City Mayoral race.

September 3, 2007: "Understanding the Shia-Sunni Conflict" (WebWire)..."Two lectures will take place on Thursday, September 6 at 4:30 p.m. in the Hinckley Institute of Politics Caucus Room in Orson Spencer Hall, room 255 and Friday, September 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the Utah Museum of Fine Arts. Both lectures are free and open to the public.'

September 1, 2007: "Reaction To Sen. Larry Craig's Resignation" Ty Perry reporting (KUTV Ch. 2 Evening News (CBS)) The director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, Kirk Jowers, is interviewed about Senator Craig’s resignation and the current status of the Republican Party.

August 30, 2007: "Giving Issues Color" by Celeste Chaney (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."Students interested in the project can get orange ribbons at any OrangeBand event or at the Bennion Community Service Center. OrangeBand members said they hope that students will also be able to pick up bands at stations outside of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, the Associated Students of the University of Utah and Union Programming Council offices."

August 27, 2007: KCPW's (Utah 's NPR station) Bryan Schott interviewed Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding the possibility of Utah Senator Orrin Hatch replacing Attorney General Alberto Gonzales.

August 25, 2007: "The Vietnamization of Iraq: Bush playing up the parrallels" by Matthew D. LaPlante (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Bush seems to have acknowledged that the comparison is inevitable, and now he is trying to influence how that analogy will be seen," agreed Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. "This could be a smart strategy. If he can get the country to talk about withdrawal with his vocabulary, he can get them talking about it in a different way."

August 23, 2007: "New Questions about Mining Regulations and Contributions" John Daley reporting (KSL Ch. 5 Eyewitness News)...The director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, Kirk Jowers, says the Crandall story seems to fit a pattern. "There have been a series of scandals with Enron and otherwise that have involved energy companies and involved these kinds of closed-door meetings with regulated industries. And we keep seeing disasters that come out of them," he said.

August 23, 2007: "Opportunities in Politics" by Ana Breton (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."Morgan turned to the flustered Hadley and said that the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the U gives students $4,000 to participate in out-of-state and international internship programs.

August 23, 2007: "Building children's dreams - in a day" by Katie Drake (Salt Lake Tribune)..."That's where Kristen Jowers came in. A mother of five, three of whom attend Legacy, Jowers took the lead in finding the school a playground. She had heard about the grants from KaBOOM and Build-A-Bear and decided to apply. Though rejected for the April build schedule, her second attempt was successful and plans went into motion."

August 23, 2007: "Community works to build playground" by Sarah Ryther (Davis County Clipper)...“My kids were playing Uno every single recess,” said parent Kristen Jowers. “There were a lot of parents complaining about the school not having a playground. I guess I thought, ‘You know, we should stop complaining and just do something about it.’” And that’s just what the parents did. Headed by Jowers, the group of parents became determined get the school and students a playground.

August 21, 2007: "Buhler and Wilsons have a long political history" by Bob Bernick, Jr. (Deseret Morning News)..."Ted Wilson, then head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, started out the governor's race about 12 months from Election Day more than 30 percentage points ahead of Bangerter."

September 2007: "The Rove Presidency" by Joshua Green (The Atlantic Monthly)..."Rove never graduated from college. He dropped out of the University of Utah and campaigned for the chairmanship of the College Republicans..."

August 15, 2007: "Poll: Buhler in a near tie with Wilson for Salt Lake City Mayor" by Christopher Smart (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Wilson is looking consistently strong," said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. "Buhler has the inside track on that second spot, but I continue to believe it will be a very tight race for that second spot." The low turnout expected for the primary makes it difficult to predict the outcome. "The numbers indicate that people are not really focused on this [election campaign] yet," he said "It's a name-recognition contest at this point and a quarter of those [questioned] can't even do that."

August 14, 2007: "Utahns see Rove's legacy as one of political genius - and questionable ethics" by Thomas Burr (Salt Lake Tribune)...WASHINGTON - Presidential adviser Karl Rove may be the one of most famous students to attend the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics - and also one of its greatest disappointments, one of his political mentors said Monday. The former Utahn excelled in the realm of politics, rising to President Bush's deputy chief of staff. But he never learned the ethics of the game, says J.D. Williams, a former U. political science professor who taught Rove. "He certainly demonstrated a command and love for politics," Williams, a Democrat, said Monday. Jowers made a formal request to Rove's office to have him donate his personal papers to the U.., where Rove spent two years but did not graduate."

August 14, 2007: "Want some camera time with Salt Lake City's next mayor?" (Salt Lake Tribune)"..."The numbers indicate that people are not really focused on this [election campaign] yet. It's a name-recognition contest at this point, and a quarter of those [questioned] can't even do that." Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics.

August 13, 2007: KSL Radio’s Doug Wright Show interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers regarding former Hinckley Institute intern Karl Rove, who announced he is stepping down from his post in the White House.

August 13, 2007: Guest host Congressman Chris Cannon interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding the 2008 presidential elections on the Bob Lonsberry Show.

August 9, 2007: "Mitt Romney: proudly, quietly, Mormon" by Linda Feldmann (Christian Science Monitor)"...Romney 'doesn't wear his religion on his sleeve,' says Kirk Jowers, who served as general counsel to Romney's political action committee. 'But I know that in his heart, that and his family are the two things that really move him and motivate him'..."

August 7, 2007: "Romney's off-air defense of faith gets lots of internet attention" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret Morning News)"...Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics and a Romney supporter, said he wasn't surprised at the interest generated by the videotape. 'Anytime you involve religion or sex with the front-runner candidate, it gets a lot of attention,' Jowers said. The attention won't hurt the campaign, Jowers said. 'I actually think in the long run, this might even help, because it showed a little different side of Romney,' Jowers said. 'It shows he has the fight when it's called for'..."

August 6, 2007: "Radio Host Contends with Romney over Religion" Richard Piatt reporting (KSL Ch. 5 Eyewitness News)... "It's yet another example of how the Mormon question keeps coming up for Romney. Ex-Romney staffer Kirk Jowers, of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, says a "defining faith speech" could intensify things. "I think if he makes the speech, it'll be another leap-off point to continue these kinds of questions," Jowers said."

August 5, 2007: "Two women keep Hatch, Bennet on inside track" by Robert Gehrke (Salt Lake Tribune)..."As a student at the University of Utah, Collipriest was involved in student government and young Republican politics. But it was a brief Washington internship she did in 1985 that changed her life. 'In those three short weeks the Potomac fever bug bit and I couldn't wait to come back,' she said. Two years later, she was back as an intern in Sen. Jake Garn's press office, but Garn says he was impressed with her ability at a young age and hired her full-time."

August 5, 2007: "Hogle request spurs debate on ballot-box budgeting" by Jeremiah Stettler (Salt Lake Tribune)..."But ballot fatigue probably won't bungle Hogle's plans - if the zoo makes it to the fall election, according to Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. To the contrary, the zoo might have chosen a good year to seek voter support. Aside from Salt Lake City's high-spirited mayoral race, there is not much to bog down the ballot, Jowers said."

August 4, 2007: "Obama's visit may be limited to fund raising" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret Morning News)..."I think it's a shame when a candidate comes to Utah and doesn't make himself available in some way to the public," said Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics and a Romney supporter."

August 2, 2007: "It's ready, get set, spend!" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)..."The numbers cement Wilson's standing in the race, according to Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'It really helps solidify Jenny Wilson as the front-runner since she raised the most money,' he said. 'Keith has the most ground to cover. He's going to need every cent of it. The other three are going to have to be strategic' with their spending..."

Nightside's Sarah Jane talks to the University of Utah's Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, Kirk Jowers, about Mitt Romney and why religion seems to matter so much in this election.

July 30, 2007:"Renteria is promoting West Side" by Doug Smeath (Deseret Morning News)..."'I'm not going to blame generational changes, but then I have to,' he says of the city's lack of minority representation. 'I just don't see enough young people getting involved the way I did when I was an undergrad' and an intern at the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics.

July 30, 2007: "Media Exposure, Romney Campaign Put LDS Church in Spotlight" Carole Mikita reporting (KSL Ch. 5 Eyewitness News)...Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institue of Politics says, "I talked to people in Boston and D.C., in Florida, who are members of the church and that is now water cooler talk. People want them to talk about the church, and Mormons are famous, or infamous, for wanting to do that. So it's a great moment for the church."

July 30, 2007: "Experts Say SLC Mayoral Candidates Should Put Campaigns In Gear Now" (KCPW News)..."The primary election for Salt Lake City Mayor, historically held in October, has been moved up to September 11th this year. Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, says turnout for the primary isn't usually very high, and candidates would be wise to try to get their name and message out now. Jowers says people focus on other things in September, such as getting their kids into school, and the mayor's race will not be a priority.

July 27, 2007: "Romney could address Mormonism" Chris Vanocur reporting (ABC Channel 4 Close to Home News). Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics is interviewed.

July 21, 2007: Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers featured in an article about Mitt Romney. (Mainichi Nespaper).

July 19, 2007: "Renting Costs Skyrocket" by Dustin Gardiner (Daily Utah Chronicle)...Jen Jankowski, a recent graduate interning through the Hinckley Institute of Politics, said finding an apartment was much easier a year ago. "A lot of (the apartments) are too expensive or they're not nice at all," she said.

July 17, 2007: Utah politicians are filling coffers for '08 races" by Suzanne Struglinski (Deseret Morning News)..."The most important thing now is to show they have the supporters and the war chest to ward off any potential challengers," said Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. Jowers said most observers see Utah's three House members as "safe" in next year's general election, but primary challenges are not off the table yet.

July 14, 2007: "Richardson campaigns in Utah" by Brock Vergakis (Associated Press)...“Even if the visits are only to vacuum money, it’s still great for the state and particularly the state’s Democrats, because it brings prominent Democrats to town, which aids in recruiting and visibility,” said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. “It’s great because it somewhat validates them, that they are still recognized as being able to influence the presidential election.”

July 13, 2007: "Top Democrat Campaigning in Utah" (KUTV Channel 2 News)..."Even if the visits are only to vacuum money, it’s still great for the state and particularly the state’s Democrats, because it brings prominent Democrats to town, which aids in recruiting and visibility,” said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. “It’s great because it somewhat validates them, that they are still recognized as being able to influence the presidential election.”

July 13, 2007: "Poll deems Romney most religious of all White House hopefuls" by Thomas Burr (Salt Lake Tribune)...Certainly with the Republican primary, being seen as a man of strong faith is helpful," says Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics and a Romney backer. Thirty-nine percent of those polled by Pulsar Research and Consulting for Time magazine correctly identified Romney as a Mormon, while 58 percent said they didn't know his religion."

July 12, 2007: Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers was in studio with KUER’s RadioWest host Doug Fabrizio to discuss “Identifying with a [Political] Party.”

July 11, 2007: "Some LDS in Utah Follow McCain" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret Morning News)..."That's true, his backers say. "Romney does not want to be the Mormon candidate," said Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics and a Romney supporter. "Romney's made it clear he wants people to support people (running for office) because of who they are, not because of their religion," Jowers said. "He wants to be evaluated on all fronts."

July 10, 2007: "Christensen sheds GOP label" by Doug Smeath (Deseret Morning News)..."Political observer Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, said he talked to Christensen about the question of his affiliation over lunch a few months ago. Jowers said he believed Christensen realized "he was just not getting traction because he was just a square peg in a round hole, and there was no way to smooth that out as a Rocky Republican."

July 8, 2007: "Christensen Parts with GOP" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)..."Still, Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, notes New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg's recent switch from Republican to independent "may have made the timing as right as possible."

July 4, 2007: "Mitt's top fund-raiser -- again" by Lisa Riley Roche and Suzanne Struglinski..."Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics and a Romney supporter, agreed. "I think Utah will again be one of the top five states for Romney," Jowers said, but "probably not" as high as second in contributions. During the first three months of the year, Utahns accounted for nearly $2.8 million of the $23 million reported then by Romney, a total that also included a loan from the candidate. "I think other states have been warming to Romney and have more people," Jowers said.

July 2007: "Partners in the Park" (U News & Views)...Partners in the Park, initiated in summer 2003, is a free, community-wide summer event series to connect west-side families with U of U community members through activities that raise awareness of and access to higher education. The June 12 event was co-sponsored by the Alumni Association and the Hinckley Institute of Politics, in collaboration with UNP.

June 26, 2007: "Justices ease limits on campaign ads" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret Morning News)..."Jowers, a founder of Campaign Legal Center based out of Washington, D.C., that filed a brief with the Supreme Court backing the law commonly referred to as McCain-Feingold, said the decision will result in more negative advertising in the 2008 campaign. "You will see a lot more ads that will attack candidates through legislative and policy positions in an attempt to fit within the standard established by the Supreme Court," Jowers said."

June 25, 2007: KCPW's (Utah 's NPR station) Bryan Schott hosts a segment with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding the significance of second quarter presidential fundraising totals and the entrance of Fred Thompson into the 2008 GOP presidential field.

June 22, 2007: "McCain Campaign Worker Makes Anti-LDS Comment" Richard Piatt reporting (KSL Ch. 5 Eyewitness News)..."But Kirk Jowers, of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, thinks McCain could even go a step further. "I think it depends on how McCain handles this. If he takes strong action, and campaign sends the message that this isn't going to happen again, then it shouldn't hurt McCain. I know McCain from working with him in 2000, and I know that's not the kind of man he is."

June 22, 2007: "Utah McCain supporters fuming over anti-LDC comments" by Thomas Burr (Salt Lake Tribune)...I know that McCain does not believe that and would never sanction it," said Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics and head of Romney's former political action committee, the Commonwealth PAC. McCain "needs to remove [Workman] from having any position within the campaign, any status from within the campaign."

June 22, 2007: "Rocky Threatens to Run For Third Term" by Eric Ray (KCPW)..."Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, says there are five possible reasons for Anderson's about-face. Jowers says Anderson wants to remain relevant and mitigate his lame duck status; he wants to influence the election by having candidates take positions consistent with his; he may feel he is the only person for the job; his job prospects may not be panning out so he's getting desperate; and he just loves the media attention the story attracts."

June 21, 2007: KSL Radio's Mary Richards interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding the implications of Mayor Anderson considering a third term.

June 21, 2007: "Rocky on the Ballot?" (Fox 13 News)..."Nearly a year ago, Anderson announce he wouldn't be running for another term. The Democrat even endorsed Republican candidate Keith Christensen. But now he says his decision could change depending on who makes it out of a September primary in the race."

June 21, 2007: "Rocky III? SLC's two-term mayor may change mind, run for third" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)...Still, if the two-term Democrat made an 11th-hour push, Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers predicts Anderson would be the favorite. "None of them want to get too bloody with him because he does have those high approval ratings," Jowers said. "If the mayor jumps back in, he would be the odds-on to win." That said, Jowers says Anderson may be entertaining the notion in order to stay in the spotlight, affect candidate platforms and wield leverage over the field. "It's a way of keeping himself relevant," he said, while it "keeps Keith in line."

June 20, 2007: "City Hall fracas turning into hot potato" by Derek P. Jensen (Salt Lake Tribune)...Meantime, Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, says the episode is embarrassing for Anderson and Hansen. And he is surprised the mayor continues to resurrect it "even if Mr. Hansen was in the wrong." "I can't see any upside for the mayor to continue to make this a headline story," he said. "As hard a player as the mayor can be on issues, and people and personnel, he seems to be what we called in law school 'the egg-shell plaintiff.' The slightest hit seems to put him in a completely irrational orbit."

June 18, 2007: "Romney Gaining Ground in Presidential Race" John Daley reporting (KSL Ch. 5 Eyewitness News)..."Campaign counsel Kirk Jowers says, 'McCain's campaign is in trouble. Giuliani's is starting to drop and I just am not a believer in Thompson having a real shot. And so I think anyone, whether a Romney supporter or not, would have to say that Mitt is now the front-runner.'

June 13, 2007: "West Salt Lake U Of U Grads To Be Recognized By Unp’s Partners In The Park" (Webwire.com)..."Amy Code, Political Programs Coordinator for the Hinckley Institute of Politics said the goal "to get students and citizens involved in their communities and engaged in the political process" is one the Hinckley Institute shares with UNP. Partnering now for the third time with UNP on Partners in the Park, the organization hopes "to recognize and acknowledge west Salt Lake City graduates and let them know how valuable and important their accomplishments are," she said.:

June 11, 2007: "Some Counties May Have to Subsidize Presidential Primary Election" Richard Piatt reporting (KSL Ch. 5 Eyewitness News)...Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics says, "I fear that if Utah is not in on February 5, it will be too late. More than half the delegates will be selected by February 5. So it's good that we're in it, even though now it's in a different setting than we had hoped, where we were hoping for more attention. Now we're just part of super duper Tuesday."

June 11, 2007: "Hatch taps U of U's Neal Tolman for Senate Internship"..."University of Utah senior Neal Tolman, 23, is learning about life on Capitol Hill with a semester internship in the Washington, D.C., office of U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) through the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics."

June 7, 2007: Richard Piatt, reporter for KSL, Channel 5 Eyewitness News (NBC) interviewed Kirk Jowers regarding the Western States Primary.

June 2007: "Young Alumni Acknowledge Excellence" (University of Utah Continuum Magazine)..."Par Excellence Award: Kirk L. Jowers BS '92 became the fourth director of the University's Hinckley Institute of Politics in April 2005. While a student at the U, Jowers was a Harry S. Truman Scholar and served as a Hinckley Institute intern in Washington, D.C."

June 2007: "Unconventional Wisdom" (University of Utah Continuum Magazine)..."Morgan, and executive assistant for the U's Hinckley Institute of Politics and a junior working towards Honors degrees in political science and economics, was recently one of 65 students selected from 56 U.S. colleges and universities to be honored as a 2007 Truman Scholar."

June 5, 2007: "Actor heightens GOP debate drama" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret Morning News)..."But Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said Thompson is not the answer for conservatives dissatisfied with their choices. "Fred Thompson is not that conservative. His voting record is very much similar to McCain's," especially on issues like campaign finance. He is not that (former Arkansas Gov. Mike) Huckabee 'I-don't-believe-in-evolution' kind of candidate," Jowers said.

May 31, 2007: "Mingling with the Minister: U intern played role in electing Scottish leader"..."Murphy worked as an intern with the Scottish National Party last semester. The internship, which lasted from January until May, was sponsored by the Hinckley Institute of Politics. Since the international internship program began last year, 18 students have worked abroad in 20 countries ranging from China to Thailand, said Courtney McBeth, intern manager at the Institute. Other countries Hinckley interns are sent to include Taiwan, India, South Korea, Japan, Mexico, Brazil, Peru and, of course, Scotland.

May 31, 2007: "Internships gave U leaders a leg up" by Dustin Gardiner (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."In his second year at law school, Jowers, a U alumnus, was pitted against 19 other Harvard law students competing for a single spot with Wiley Rein & Fielding, a top Republican law firm. While his opponents had similarly impressive GPAs and test scores, Jowers had something that set him apart--he had completed five political internships."

May 31, 2007: "Local and lovin' it" by Parker Williams (Daily Utah Chronicle)...U students don't have to look far to find internships that will broaden their educational experiences and strengthen resumes. Internships are becoming increasingly popular among students, and many are finding that Salt Lake City and its surrounding communities are great places to intern.

May 31, 2007: "On the Hill: U students intern in Washington, D.C." by Rochelle McConkie (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."Both Miller and Diaz are in Washington, D.C., for the summer on internships with the Hinckley Institute of Politics. A total of 35 U students are interning in the nation's capital this summer, working at places ranging from Senate offices, lobbying firms, public policy organizations and the American Civil Liberties Union."

Spring 2007: "Every Student a Politician" by Madekin Brosnan (Salt Laje University Institute of Religion Century Magazine)..."The Hinckley Institute of Politics founded in 1965 by Robert H. Hinckley, is a tremendous resource for internships and political involvement..."

May 29, 2007: KSL Radio's Nightside interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding Mitt Romney's announcement that, if elected president, he will donate his salary to charity.

May 2007: "Senator Bennett Welcomes New Summer Interns"..."Senator Bennett welcomed five new interns to Washington, D.C., this month to spend the summer assisting with various administrative and legislative assignments. "It is wonderful to see these young students interested in and committed to learning more about our legislative system," said Bennett. "There is no doubt that a semester in Washington will contribute greatly to their education, and I'm pleased to get to know them through this experience."

May 27, 2007: "Legislative conflicts of interest common" by Bob Bernick and Lee Davidson (Deseret Morning News)..."Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, says there is great value in having a part-time, citizen legislature. But, he adds, there is a hidden conflict of interest on legislation that few people talk about: Legislators' legal ability to take cash out of their own campaign accounts and spend it any way they wish."

May 21, 2007: "All taxpayers deserve congressional representation" by Anastasia Neidrich (Daily Utah Chronicle)..."This month, I was able to participate in a one-week intensive academic experience in Washington, D.C., through the Hinckley Institute of Politics Capitol Encounter seminar. While there, I saw hundreds of vehicle license plates issued from D.C., all with the same slogan on them: "Taxation Without Representation."

May 19, 2007: "Sudanese envoy speaks in St. Louis on sanctions / Sudanese envoy says Darfur is complex" (Platform Blogs)..."Media reports are superficial, and the situation is complex, Ambassador John Ukec Lueth Ukec told a standing-room-only crowd at the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics."

May 14, 2007: "Voucher Election Might Affect the Race for Salt Lake City Mayor"..."Jowers would not speculate which candidate best might benefit from the voucher question being on the ballot. However, he says candidates will have to address the issue whether they planned on it or not."

May 11, 2007: "Mitt Romney in National Spotlight" Rich Piatt reporting (KSL Ch. 5 Eyewitness News)..."One political analyst and former campaign staffer calls this invaluable. Kirk Jowers, of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, says "If you talk to political experts, people need to be hit with something three or four times within a small period time for it to even make an imprint, so this is a perfect storm of Mitt Romney attention."

May 11, 2007: "Shouts of bigotry grow against Sharpton over criticizing Romney's Mormon faith"..."The Deseret News reported that Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, said the controversy “will have no impact on how people perceive the LDS Church or Mitt Romney. … This is much more about Sharpton.”

May 11, 2007: "Shouts of Bigotry grow against Sharpton over criticizing Romney's Mormon Faith" (Axcess News)...The Deseret News reported that Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said the controversy "will have no impact on how people perceive the LDS Church or Mitt Romney. ... This is much more about Sharpton." Jowers called Sharpton "equal parts of publicity, pews and politics."

May 10, 2007: KCPW's (Utah 's NPR station) Bryan Schott hosts a segment with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk L. Jowers regarding whether the statewide special election on the school voucher referendum will impact the Salt Lake City mayoral race and a discussion regarding the Romney/Sharpton dispute.