MEDIA COVERAGE 2009

The Hinckley Institute of Politics hosts many notable public officials and political experts every year. Follow the links below for media coverage of Hinckley Forums and other Hinckley Institute events.

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June 30, 2009 The New Romney Dynasty by Samuel P. Jacbos (The Daily Beast) And even if Herbert doesn’t pick him for the post, Romney Jr. could find himself on the ticket of Kirk Jowers, the director of the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, a year from November.

June 28, 2009 Lawmakers for sale (Salt LakeTribune Editorial) Those dismal statistics factored into Gov. Jon Huntsman's decision to appoint a Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy. This praiseworthy but powerless panel will make recommendations for lobbying, ethics and campaign finance reform, and hopefully shame the state Legislature into taking action. Or maybe not. The commission debated caps on campaign contributions this month, but failed to reach a consensus.

June 28, 2009 Could a Jowers-Romeny Ticket Win? by Lavar Webb (Utah Policy Daily) A Kirk Jowers/Josh Romney ticket would make the 2010 gubernatorial election very interesting. But could that ticket win? I seriously doubt it.  Jowers and Romney are too young, too inexperienced and haven't paid their dues working at the Republican Party's grassroots levels.

 

 

June 27, 2009 Another Utah man is College Republicans leader by Thomas Burr (Associated Press) Howell, who graduated last month in political science from the University of Utah, boasts an impressive resume for his age. He interned at the White House's Office of Strategic Initiatives — coincidentally, a Rove arm of the Bush administration — in 2007 and for former Rep. Chris Cannon in 2006 as part of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics program.

June 26, 2009 Jowers-Romney ticket closer to reality by Mary Richards (KSL News) There is more buzz that Kirk Jowers and Josh Romney may share a ticket in the 2010 Utah governor's race.

June 25, 2009 Jowers/Romney Ticket Gaining Steam? by Bryan Schott (Utah Policy Daily) Today's Swing State Project Morning Briefing says that a Kirk Jowers/Josh Romney ticket for the 2010 Republican nomination in the special election to fill Governor Jon Huntsman's remaining two years in could be moving closer to reality.

June 25, 2009 Is There a Draft Jowers Movement? by Todd Weiler (Utah Policy Daily, Policy Buzz Blog) Based on Paul Rolly's article this week, it appears that Kirk Jowers is poised to jump into the 2010 Governor's race.  Kirk is bright, young, intelligent and very well connected -- but he is also a completely unknown quantity to the delegates.  He is rumored to be courting Josh Romney to be his running mate.

June 25, 2009 Swing State Project: SSP Daily Digest: 6/25 By Crisitunity. Univ. of Utah professor Kirk Jowers, who reportedly had been offered the role as Herbert's Lt. Gov., is the subject of a draft movement and may challenge Herbert for the top job instead -- with Josh Romney (son of Mitt) as his LG.

June 25, 2009 Campaign finance rules earn Utah an F By Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) "We have a ways to go, especially for a state that prides itself on personal integrity," said Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, who also heads Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr.'s special public ethics study commission.

June 24, 2009 The Hotline Ooh, He's A Little Romney, Daddy's Boy Learned Fast (National Journal) Salt Lake Tribune's Rolly writes, LG Gary Herbert (R) "hasn't even been sworn in" as gov. yet "and already there is a movement afoot" in the UT GOP "to challenge him" in the '10 special. "GOP sources are buzzing" about a movement to draft Univ. of UT prof. Kirk Jowers.

June 24, 2009 Rolly: Romney as lieutenant governor? Josh Romney by Paul Rolly (Salt Lake Tribune) GOP sources are buzzing about a draft Kirk Jowers movement. The plan is for Jowers, the director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, to run for governor and Josh Romney, the son of 2008 presidential candidate Mitt Romney, to run as his lieutenant-governor running mate.

June 22, 2009 Looking for Mr. Right? by Paul Rolly (Salt Lake Tribune) While he seems content to continue on for the foreseeable future with his current professional duties, the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers is getting to be a hot topic in Utah Republican circles.

Jun 19, 2009 Commission Focuses on Campaign Finance Reform by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW) The governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy focused on campaign finance yesterday for its sixth meeting. Acting Commission Chairman Kirk Jowers says enacting reasonable contribution limits would encourage more grassroots campaigning in Utah, which in turn would boost civic involvement.

June 18, 2009 U grad to lead College Republican National Committee by Chris Mumford (Daily Utah Chronicle) Part of the solution, according to Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers, is finding a message that connects with a younger audience.“I think the number one issue for young people right now is probably the number one issue for all people, which is the economy,” Jowers said.

June 15, 2009 Hinckley Institute DC 2009 Intern Julie Sagers featured in online by the Salt Lake Tribune

June 13, 2009 Utahn takes on national Republican role by By Thomas Burr (The Salt Lake Tribune) Howell, who graduated last month in political science from the University of Utah, boasts an impressive resume for his age. He interned at the White House's Office of Strategic Initiatives -- coincidentally, a Rove arm of the Bush administration -- in 2007 and for former Rep. Chris Cannon in 2006 as part of the U's Hinckley Institute of Politics program.

June 12, 2009 U. graduate heads College Republicans by Michael R. McFall
(Deseret News) Zach Howell, who graduated last spring after an internship with the Hinckley Institute of Politics, was elected as the College Republicans' national chairman. The last U. student and Hinckley intern to hold a high leadership position was Karl Rove as its executive director during the mid 1970s — or as the GOP bitterly remembers it, the Watergate scandal. "Essentially, the two former interns had to take over at the lowest points of the Republican Party," said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute.

June 12, 2009 Diplomatic absence for Republican by Rebecca Carroll ( The National) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, said that although Mr Huntsman was looking like an interesting presidential candidate, “the reality of his future for 2012 was more difficult”.

June 8, 2009 Just like grown-up Republicans, College Republicans face an identity crisis by Lydia DePillis (Slate) Incoming CNRC Chairman Zach Howell, who graduated this year from the University of Utah, has his work cut out for him.

June 8, 2009 Herbert already scouting for replacement once he becomes Utah
governor by Robert Gehrke (Salt Lake Tribune) Others said to be in the mix include former Senate President and Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce President Lane Beattie, Draper Rep. Greg Hughes, and Kirk Jowers, the director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

June 6, 2009 Political seminar set for teachers (Deseret News) The Hinckley Institute at the University of Utah is accepting applications for the Huntsman Seminar in Constitutional Government for Teachers. The seminar focuses on improving the quality of civic education in Utah schools. Participants gain valuable knowledge and insight into current events in American politics by interacting with political experts, judges, university faculty and elected officials.

June 5, 2009 Friday Buzz Who’s Being ‘Mentioned’? by LaVarr Webb & Associates (Utah Policy Daily) Here’s a rundown of prospective and for-certain candidates for various upcoming races. Utah Policy will be publishing a candidate tracking service soon so readers can follow candidates through the various stages of a race. -- 2012 U.S. Senate – R: Orrin Hatch, Jason Chaffetz, Kirk Jowers; D: Jim Matheson.

June 4, 2009 Becker blinks on Library Square By Rosemary Winters (The Salt Lake Tribune) Ultimately, the "Library Square saga," will help Becker, too, said Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. "It shows that he is willing to think outside the box, but then actively encourage public input and participation and make a firm decision," Jowers said. "Had he ignored the overwhelming opinion of his constituents ... it could have been his death knell."

June 2, 2009 Josh Romney would consider lieutenant-governor position by Lisa Riley-Roche (Deseret News) Romney said there are already a number of "great people who would do a great job" as governor looking at the race, including Herbert, University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics director Kirk Jowers and Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce head Lane Beattie.

May 26, 2009 Marking 20 at the Hinckley Institute: Jayne Nelson by Steve Gehrke (Salt Lake Tribune) Jayne Nelson has managed the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics since the day George H. W. Bush defeated Michael Dukakis to become the 41st president. She now single-handedly commands a workload so demanding, her co-workers say it would challenge an entire staff.

"I don't know anyone in the state who could do what she does," said Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers, who called Nelson "incredibly efficient, strong and humble."

May 25, 2009 Utah Republican Challenges Sen. Bennett from the Outside By Michael Teitelbaum, (CQ Politics) Chaffetz’ success may have emboldened Shurtleff “to take advantage of the anti-Washington feeling” by entering the Senate race, said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

May 24, 2009 Plenty of qualified prospects for Herbert's lieutenant governor By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb (Deseret News)Others mentioned are Sen. John Valentine, not likely because he's from Utah County; Rep. Rhonda Menlove from northern Utah; and Kirk Jowers at the U.'s Hinckley Institute.

May 22, 2009 Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers was a guest of UTAH NOW with Doug Fabrezio discussing Utah Governor Jon Huntsman's stepping down to become Ambassador to China.

May 21, 2009 Mark Shurtleff says he's ready to take on Sen. Bennett by Joe Pyrah (Daily Herald) "He's not Chris Cannon," he said of Bennett. "He's not." That's true, said Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. "Cannon had endured a series of difficult races," Jowers said of the former representative being repeatedly challenged and "generally disliked."

May 20, 2009 Herbert is hunting for new No. 2 By Lisa Riley Roche and Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) Other potential election rivals — and possible lieutenant governor picks — include Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce head Lane Beattie and University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers.

May 20th, 2009 Shurtleff enters race for Bennett's Senate seat By Richard Piatt (KSL News) "I'm not sure it will pay off. Shurtleff has his own background, his own baggage on conservative issues, so he's not the empty vessel they can put their hopes and dreams into," said Kirk Jowers, executive director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics.

May 19, 2009 Governor's Race May Include Salt Lake County Leadersby Jeff Robinson (KCPW) interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about his plans to run for Governor or accept a Lieutenant Governor invitation.

May 19, 2009 KUTV Channel 2’s Rod Decker interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about his plans to run for Governor or accept a Lieutenant Governor invitation.

May 19, 2009 KSL Channel 5’s Rich Piatt interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about his plans to run for Governor or accept a Lieutenant Governor invitation.

May 19, 2009 Before China, Huntsman was inching toward '12 run By Robert Gehrke (The Salt Lake Tribune) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, said 2012 would have been "almost impossible" for Huntsman to win -- going against an incumbent president who Huntsman had supported on the federal stimulus.

May 19, 2009 Who Will Run in 2010 Special Election? by Jeff Robinson (KCPW) With Governor Jon Huntsman departing to become Ambassador to China, pending his confirmation by the U.S. Senate, the field is now wide open to contenders who want his job in the November 2010 special election.  Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers, among others, is discussed.

May 18, 2009 Field of potential candidates taking shape for 2010 election
The Salt Lake Tribune reports other possible leading Republican candidates include: Fred Lampropoulos, a 2004 hopeful, Utah House Speaker Dave Clark, State Senator John Valentine (who has already formed a campaign organization), Salt Lake Chamber President Lane Beattie, Zions Bank President Scott Anderson, Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

May 18, 2009 Candidates For Utah Gov. Speed Up Campaigns For 2010 by Nicole Hunter Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about Governor Jon Huntsman nomination to become Ambassador to China and the 2010 gubernatorial election.

May 18, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared live on KSL Radio's "The Doug Wright Show" to discuss the transition from Governor Huntsman to Herbert and the future of Utah politics.

May 18, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared on NPR Radio's "All Things Considered" with correspondent Howard Berkes to discuss the transition from Governor Huntsman's appointment as Chinese Ambassador.

May 18, 2009 The Next McCain? by Robert Gehrke (The Daily Beast) The China dispatch maybe be a short-term detour, but one with little downside. “2012 looked almost impossible for him, despite how well he’d been doing getting publicity,” says Kirk Jowers, a University of Utah political science professor and attorney who has worked with both the McCain and Romney camps.

May 17, 2009 Huntsman Out - Herbert In by Jennifer Napier-Pearce (KUER)
Political circles are still a-buzz with news that President Obama tapped Utah Governor Jon Huntsman to serve as U.S. Ambassador to China. Among the hotly-debated topics: What kind of a governor will Gary Herbert be? And what does Huntsman's exit mean for Utah politics? KUER's Jennifer Napier-Pearce interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers.

May 17, 2009 Utah GOP governor is Obama's pick as China envoy KUTV Anchor Brian Mulahey interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers.

May 17, 2009 Names sell newspapers by Frank Pignanelli and Lavar Webb (Deseret News) Brett Tolman, Kirk Jowers, Aaron Osmond: They just really, really want to run for something.

May 17, 2009 Candidates stepping up to take Huntsman's place (KSL News)
The Deseret News reports Republican Sen. John Valentine of Orem has put together a campaign organization. He says he's waiting to see how Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert does at the helm before he officially throws his hat in for the 2010 special election. Other prospects include: Kirk Jowers, executive director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics

May 17, 2009 Race to replace Huntsman may draw broad field By Derek P. Jensen (The Salt Lake Tribune) Fred Lampropoulos, who ran a well-financed 2004 bid, could join the mix as could Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce President Lane Beattie, Zions Bank President Scott Anderson or Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics.

May 17, 2009 Huntsman tapped: Obama's selection of China envoy sets off a political furor by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Other potential candidates being mentioned include Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce President Lane
Beattie; Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics; Scott Anderson, head of Zions Bank; and Utah's only Democratic member of Congress, Rep. Jim Matheson.

May 16, 2009 Huntsman accepts post as ambassador to China by Andrew Adams (KSL Radio) Hinckley Institute director Kirk Jowers is interviewed regarding Huntsman's post as ambassador to China.

May 15, 2009 KSL News Radio Interview regarding Governor Huntsman's appointment to ambassador to China

May 16, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, was interviewed by Brian Mulahey of KUTV 2 News regarding the implications of Governor Huntsman's appointment to be China's new ambassador.

May 16, 2009: "Gov. Huntsman Accepts Obama's Call to Serve as U.S. Ambassador to China" by Scott McCain (Fox 13 News): Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics was interviewed regarding this development.

May 16, 2009 Huntsman accepts post as ambassador to China by Keith McCord (KSL News) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah said, "It's great for the state of Utah. We can't keep our governors on the farm. We've lost our last two to administrations."

May 14, 2009 New Utah Campaign Finance Law Raises Questions by John McArdle (Roll Call) “There is no question there are several state legislators who are eyeing” federal races, said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics. “We have two of the longest-serving, oldest Senators. We have a fourth [Congressional] seat we will receive [in the next reapportionment]. So I think there was certainly some feeling of, ‘Lets give ourselves maximum flexibility with these campaign funds.’” 

May 13, 2009 Kirk Jowers on Shurtleff, Bridgewater Candidacies by Jeff Robinson (KCPW News) KCPW's Jeff Robinson spoke with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers about the challengers Bennett will face at the 2010 State Republican Convention.

May 12, 2009 Shurtleff mistakenly 'tweets' campaign plans By Josh Loftin (Deseret News) "Shurtleff has postponed this announcement so many times, he's starting to look like Fred Thompson," said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. The actor-turned-politician kept putting off getting into the race for the 2008 GOP presidential nomination, and once Thompson did get in the race, he didn't stay long. Jowers said there's a danger of voters losing interest in Shurtleff's candidacy.

May 12, 2009 Bridgewater to challenge Bennett for Senate seat by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said all incumbents are vulnerable right now, not just Bennett. He said the strategy behind a Bridgewater candidacy could be that "someone new and fresh might have the best chance to take advantage of this anti-Washington feeling."

May 7, 2009 Romney supporter pleased by FEC vote by United Press International "Campaign finance enforcement should err on the side of citizen participation and clarity, as it did in this instance," said attorney Kirk Jowers.

May 6, 2009 Obama's campaign manager fears Jon Huntsman the most in 2012 by Chris Vanocur (KUTV News) Kirk Jowers of the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics says, "Huntsman has positioned himself in a great place right now because he is the only presidential candidate really running in the middle right now.". . . And Jowers - who has advised three republican presidential candidates - says Huntsman has now, "...become a top five candidate for 2012."

May 6, 2009 SLC interns gain D.C. perspective By Jennifer Bischoff (Salt Lake Tribune) She found her internship through the Hinckley Institute of Politics, an organization at the University of Utah, which provides opportunities for students to work in different areas of government.

May 5, 2009 FEC closes probe of Romney campaign, Utah developer by Thomas Burr (Salt Lake Tribune) Gardner's attorney in the matter, Kirk Jowers, also the head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, issued a statement on behalf of Gardner saying he is gratified that the FEC dismissed the case.

May 5, 2009 Lieutenant governor won't enforce contributions law by Sheena Mcfarland (Salt Lake Tribune) In Utah, supporters of the state's lax campaign finance laws often argue the laws are lenient because everything is disclosed for voters to see, said Kirk Jowers, a campaign finance attorney. However, that only works if candidates accurately report contributions. “If voters cannot get timely contributor information, it eliminates their ability to fairly see influence on that legislator that may or may not make a difference to them,” said Jowers, who also is the director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

May 5, 2009 Governor Huntsman causing national, local stir By Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said Huntsman "is getting the rewards of sticking his neck out on issues," including support for gay rights and addressing climate change — in one of the nation's reddest and most conservative states.

May 5, 2009 U. student named Truman Scholar By Wendy Leonard (Deseret News) "Patrick is an incredibly gifted student who serves for all the right reasons," said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute. Jowers received the Truman scholarship as a U. student in 1990 and said Reimherr is deserving of the honor, due to his "tremendous work ethic, brilliant mind and absolute integrity."

April 29, 2009 Utahns prefer Romney to Huntsman in new poll By Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said most Utahns "have not yet focused on the fact that these two favorite sons are attempting to push the party in different directions." For now, he said, both are being judged mostly on their likability and ties to the state.

April 28, 2009: "Obama has slim support of Utahns after 100 days" by Bob Bernick Jr. and Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) "'Utahns, like the nation, are giving President Obama the benefit of the doubt,' said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'He's such a likable man in many ways that their concerns with some of the specific issues are not taking their toll on him yet.'"

April 28, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, was interviewed by KSL Radio's Scott Sieger regarding Senator Arlen Specter's switch from the Republican to Democratic Party.

April 23, 2009: "Governor: Commission Change Not Result of Lawmaker Pressure" by Jeff Robinson (KCPW) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is co-chairman of the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy. "Governor Huntsman added that campaign finance reform will be another major component the commission will study, noting that Utah is one of only three states that does not limit campaign contributions. Learn more about the commission at strengthendemocracy.org."

Apil 23, 2009: "Governor defends decision to drop legislative ethics from commission" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is co-chairman of the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy.

April 23, 2009: "Guv says pared-back commission is still worthwhile" by Robert Gehrke (The Salt Lake Tribune)Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is co-chairman of the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy.

April 23, 2009: "KUED Airs Hinckley Institute Forum Featuring Two University Presidents" (KUED 7) "On Sunday night, May 2 (the morning of Monday, May 3) at 12 a.m., KUED will air a previously taped Hinckley Institute of Politics Forum with University of Utah President Michael K. Young and Brigham Young University President Cecil O. Samuelson, discussing the future of higher education."

April 23, 2009: "Frog expert to speak at SLC Main Library" by Brian Maffly (Salt Lake Tribune) "The Nature of Things, which the museum stages in partnership with the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics, is completing its third year under a grant from the R. Harold Burton Foundation."

April 21, 2009: "New advocate position would oversee media" by Michael McFall and Jeremy Thompson (Daily Utah Chronicle) "However, Jayme Day, editor in chief of Social Dialogue, and Jonathan Spendlove, editor in chief of The Hinckley Journal of Politics—two publications that would be directly
affected by the proposal—said they know nothing about it."

April 20, 2009: "Governor's Commission Drops Legislative Ethics and Redistricting" by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW News) "Kirk Jowers, acting chairman of the commission and the director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, says legislative leaders made no secret of their feelings about the commission taking on the issues. 'I've heard directly and indirectly from various legislators that they were not happy...'"

April 20, 2009: "GOP may get more seats in Congress" by Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) "But with Democrats currently holding a 75-plus seat majority in the 435-member U.S. House of Representatives, it will take more than redistricting to get the GOP back in control of the body in 2012. 'Still, it is a first bright spot for (national) Republicans,' said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics.

April 18, 2009: "Dem chairman takes behind-the-scenes approach" by Jeremiah Stettler (The Salt Lake Tribune) "U. Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers says Clark's low-profile approach may have served the party well last year."

April 17, 2009: "Presidents discuss future of higher education" by Deborah Rafferty (Daily Utah Chronicle) "'We looked at what we can do today to help students in 10 years, 20 years and 30 years,' said U President Michael Young on Thursday at a Hinckley Institute of Politics forum about the changes and problems facing the future of higher education."

April 16, 2009: "University Presidents Say Funding Sources Will Change in the Future" by Faroe Robinson (KCPW) "At a forum on higher education at the Hinckley Institute of Politics this morning, he said this could lead to major changes. 'Will these different revenue streams change the way in which we behave?'"

April 16, 2009: "U., Y. chiefs discuss future of higher ed" by Wendy Leonard (Deseret News) "Brigham Young University President Cecil O. Samuelson and University of Utah President Michael K. Young both expressed optimism during the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics Forum on Thursday, but they made clear their thoughts were, as Samuelson said, "only speculation."

April 16, 2009: "Guv wants ethics study narrowed" by Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) "'I serve (on the commission) at the pleasure of the governor,' said commission co-chairman Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'We had a very broad mandate' before Huntsman asked for the narrowing of the study."

April 14, 2009: "New presidential pet becomes part of Washington politics" by Richard Piatt (KSL 5 News) "'It's a way for PETA to get its message across, for shelter dogs to get theirs, even the cat lovers. You know, why didn't they get a cat? So it just goes on and on,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah."

April 13, 2009: "Monday Buzz" by LaVarr Webb (Utah Policy Daily) "BYU Pres. Cecil Samuelson and U. of U. Pres. Michael Young talking about the future of higher education, at the Hinckley Institute."

April 9, 2009: "New state law could open backdoor for federal candidates" by Robert Gehrke (Salt Lake Tribune) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics and an attorney who practices campaign-finance law. "Candidates have an absolute right to use their personal funds for their own political campaign activity," Jowers said."

April 07, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics intern, Patrick Reimherr was selected as 2009 Truman Scholar.

April 04, 2009: "Walsh: Legislature enacted ethics reform: Is it enough?" by Rebecca Walsh (Salt Lake Tribune) "Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers believes lawmakers were forced to act on ethics reform with the commission waiting in the wings. 'It did force them to make some first steps,' he says."

April 04, 2009: "Did Romney's religion cost him the presidency?" by Micheale De Groote (Mormon Times) "Kirk Jowers has an answer for whether Mitt
Romney's presidential bid was lost because of Mormonism: 'I can unequivocally tell you that the answer is 'yes, no and maybe.'"

April 02, 2009: "U coach, director take on the Wheelin’ Jazz" by Andreas Rivera (Daily Utah Chronicle) "U Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers, won the game by three points, 83-80, when they bombarded their opponents and audience members with streams of Silly String."

April 02, 2009: "Gore and LDS leaders meet" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) "Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said the visit validates 'the church's significant efforts to construct environmentally friendly buildings,' including part of the massive downtown City Creek development that is under way."

April 02, 2009: "Former Colombian president addresses drug war, economy" by Isabella Bravo (Daily Utah Chronicle) "The U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics brought Gaviria to the U to speak Thursday on the role of international leaders in shaping economic and public policy."

April 02, 2009: "Al Gore and LDS President Meet Privately" by Max Roth (KSTU Fox 13) "'I think its a real validation for the LDS church. They've made real efforts to be progressive on the environment and this helps their cause as they’ve kind of stepped out to do it,' said Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics."

March 28, 2009: "Utahns' opinions are sought on ethics reform" by Kristy Kuhn (Deseret News) Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers,

March 27, 2009: "China soon to ival US, Times editor says" by Trent Lowe (Daily Utah Chronicle) Kahn spoke Thursday at the U Hinckley Institute of Politics about China’s up-and-coming status as a superpower of the world.

March 26, 2009: "U. student leader named Truman scholar" by Brian Maffly (The Salt Lake Tribune) "This is both an extraordinary honor and a remarkable tribute to the accomplishments of Patrick Reimherr and to the [U.'s] Hinckley Institute of Politics."

March 26, 2009: "University of Utah Student Awarded Truman Scholarship" (KUTV News) For the third consecutive year, past Hinckley Institute of Politics interns have been Truman Scholars. This years Truman Scholarship recipient is Patrick Reihmerr.

March 26, 2009: "Reimherr named as Truman scholar" by Isabella Bravo (Daily Utah Chronicle) “'The Truman Scholarship is the most competitive undergraduate scholarship available in this very specialized field of public service,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics and a [1990] Truman scholar."

March 26, 2009: "Harry S. Truman Scholarship Awarded to U of U Student" (U of U News Center) "'This is both an extraordinary honor and a remarkable tribute to the accomplishments of Patrick Reimherr and to the Hinckley Institute of Politics,' said University of Utah President Michael K. Young."

March 25, 2009: "A Few Questions for Jayne Nelson" (News for Faculty & Staff, U of U) Assitant Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, Jayne Nelson, interviewed for campus faculty and staff news.

March 20, 2009: "Let the 'Mentioning' Begin" by Lavarr Webb and Associates (Utah Policy Daily) "So a group of political junkies were sitting around at lunch talking about who has been mentioned by the Great Mentioners  as 2012 gubernatorial prospects. Here's the list:  Republicans: Gary Herbert, Mark Shurtleff, Lane Beattie, John Valentine, David Clark, Kirk Jowers, Kevin Garn, Brent Brown, Merrill Cook, Natalie Gochnour, Chris Cannon, Jason Chaffetz.  Democrat: Jim Matheson. The list will grow, and watch for some surprise candidates."

March 12, 2009: "Walsh: Lowbrow session at Capitol" by Rebecca Walsh (Salt Lake Tribune) "You can take his word for it. House Republicans did -- in droves, along with a couple weak-willed Democrats. They chided Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers on Wednesday for daring to commission a speech from liberal New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman, who accepts global warming and advocates a carbon tax."

March 12, 2009: "2009 Legislature makes significant headway in ethics reform" by John Daley (KSL News) "According to the Hinckley Institute of Politics, 33 other states make lobbyists disclose the how much money they're paid, 43 other states select statewide nominees through a primary election, and 36 other states limit campaign contributions and require contributors to list their occupation or employers."

March 11, 2009: "Friedman urges green revolution" by Rochelle McConkie (Daily Utah Chronicle) The renowned New York Times columnist and bestselling author urged a packed audience at Abravanel Hall on Tuesday night to start a “green revolution” using energy technology. . . . 'Pragmatism is going to have to supersede partisanship very quickly,' said Jowers, a Republican. 'On the environment and so many other issues, we are reaching a state of emergency, but neither political party seems willing to see it that way.' The Hinckley Institute honored Friedman as a Hinckley fellow for his relationship with the U."

March 11, 2009: "Hot, flat and smug" by Glen Warchol (Salt Lake Tribune) Hinckley Institute of Politics fellow, Thomas Friedman, spoke to a sold out crowd at Abravenal Hall regarding the topics found in his new book, Hot, Flat and Crowded.

March 11, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, interviewed with Chris Vanocur from ABC news regarding currently debated ethics bills.

March 11, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, interviewed with Rich Piatt from KSL news regarding the legislative wrap-up`.

March 11, 2009: "Friedman: Government must stimulate green revolution" by Brandon Loomis (Salt Lake Tribune) Hinckley Institute of Politics fellow, Thomas Friedman, spoke to a sold out crowd at Abravenal Hall regarding the topics found in his new book, Hot, Flat and Crowded.

March 11, 2009: "Friedman pushes for greener America" by Wendy Leonard (Deseret News) "The Utah Museum of Natural History presented the lecture in cooperation with the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the U."

March 9, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared on KSL Radio with reporter Becky Bruce from KSL radio regarding the Friedman lecture and related events.

March 9, 2009: "Thomas Friedman to speak at Abravanel Hall Tuesday" (KSL News) Friedman is reportedly a huge "get" for the lecture series. Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics Kirk Jowers tells KSL he accepts one speaking engagement for about every 20 requests he receives. He's one of the most sought after speakers in the world," Jowers added.

March 7, 2009: "Walsh: Is the U's keynote worth $75,000?" by Rebecca Walsh (Salt Lake Tribune) "'When you have a speaker that generates this amount of press and public interest, it helps shed light on everything else you're doing,' says Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers. 'It's the trickledown effect.'"

March 5, 2009: "Commission seeks public comment on increasing voter turnout" (Deseret News) "The commission, led by the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers, is looking at legislative ethics, campaign finance laws, redistricting, lobbying regulations and how elections are conducted."

March 4, 2009: "Students offer bribes to Legislature in protest" by Blair Dee Hodges (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U Hinckley Institute of Politics, said ethics reform has recently come to the forefront of Utah politics. Jowers, who was appointed by Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. to head the Governor’s Commission on Strengthening Utah’s Democracy."

February 23, 2009: "Is Buttars' speech public, or private?" by Aaron Falk (Deseret News) "The controversy raises the question of whether a state legislator can ever truly speak as a private citizen. According to Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, the answer is no. 'You just can't sever the two,' he said. 'The practical effect, in this day and age, is that a public official is always speaking as a public official.' With the advent of the Internet, and particularly Web sites such as YouTube, elected officials must be ever-cautious of what they say, Jowers said."

February 20, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared live on KSL Radio with reporter Sheryl Worsley regarding Senator Buttars being stripped of his chairmanship positions due to his controversial statements.

February 20, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared on KUER Radio with reporter Jennifer Alisi Napier-Pearce regarding the legislature's ethics bills.

February 19, 2009: "3 nominated for Truman Scholars" by Trent Lowe (Daily Utah Chronicle) "'This is a huge accomplishment for the candidates and for the university,' said Marko Mijic, a staff assistant at the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'It really shows what kind of students the U prepares.' . . . Jowers, who received the scholarship in 1990, said that the U has produced the past two Truman Scholars from Utah: Bryson Morgan in 2007 and Ingrid Price in 2008."

February 19, 2009: "Hutnsman invited to address South Carolina politicos: Huntsman trip seem as first test 2012 presidential waters" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said if Huntsman wants the opportunity to seriously consider entering the race, it makes sense for him to develop good will across the country.  'Republicans lack a clear leader at this point, and Gov. Huntsman finds himself one of a small pack of potential national leaders. So he is simply in a lot of demand right now,' Jowers said."

February 11, 2009: "Walsh: Guv, church play gay politics" by Rebecca Walsh (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'It immediately hurts him with core Republican voters. But long term, he has at least four years for this to play out, says Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'Gov. Huntsman feels the calling to be a leader of the rethinking and reshaping of the Republican Party. He's concerned about the future.'"

February 11, 2009: "Prop 8 donors pinpointed on website map" by Brent Hunsaker (ABC4 News) "Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah said, 'For the most part I think disclosure is good.  But there are negatives.  It’s not the silver bullet that some people think it is because it can be chilling and it can even make harassment quite easy.'” 

February 10, 2009: "Guv's civil-unions stand panned, praised" by Rosemary Winters and Robert Gehrke (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'He will come out on issues even though they are not popular with his party or even within his state, but so far people have respected him for that,' Jowers said, noting Huntsman's efforts..."

February 9, 2009: "Legislator compaigns get 81% fo funds from special interests" by Lee Davidson (Deseret News) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, says Utah campaign laws — which unlike most states have no donation limits, and allow direct donations by corporations — tend to discourage lawmakers from seeking donations from regular citizens because easy, big special-interest money can supply all they need."

February 9, 2009: "Lawmakers must regain voter trust" by Kirk Jowers and Matthew Sanderson (The Daily Utah Chronicle) Hinckley Institute of Politics' director Kirk Jowers co-authored an op-ed on voter turnout and trust in Utah.

February 6, 2009: "United States: Political Activity Law Bulletin - Disclosure Rules for Lobbyist Bundling" by Trevor Potter, Kirk L. Jowers, Joseph M. Birkenstock, Stacy Q. Cline, Matthew T. Sanderson and Kirsty B. Tsadick. Co-authored work by Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, Published in the Political Acitivty Law Bulletin, Winter 2009.

February 4, 2009: Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, appeared on UPR's Access Utah today with host Lee Austin and fellow guest Meg Holbrook regarding the Governor’s Commission on Strengthening Utah’s Democracy. 

February 2, 2009: This week on Utah NOW, the always-dicey question of ethics in the Utah Legislature.  This week Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers and Ken Verodia join host Doug Fabrezio to talk about the efforts to reform the rules of conduct on Utah's Capitol Hill.

February 2, 2009: "Sparking voter turnout" by Aaron Zundel (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Headed by Utah Jazz owner Larry Miller, and co-chaired by the U’s own Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics the 16–member commission hopes to investigate those perceptions, primarily by focusing on ethics reform.

February 2009: "Campus All-Stars - Achievements of U of U Faculty, Staff, Students, and More" (U of U Alumni Association) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, has been named by Gov. Jon Huntsman to head an independent government ethics commission... Jowers says he hopes the commission will make recommendations in areas such as campaign finance laws, lobbying rules, and party nomination systems, among many others. The commission will not make any recommendations until after lawmakers adjourn in early March."

January 30, 2009: "Ethics Reform" with Doug Fabrizio (KUED Utah Now) This week on Utah NOW, the always-dicey question of ethics in the Utah Legislature.  This week Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers and Ken Verodia join host Doug Fabrezio to talk about the efforts to reform the rules of conduct on Utah's Capitol Hill.

January 29, 2009: "Utah wants ethics reform" (Deseret News) "According to Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah and co-chairman of the newly empaneled Governor's Commission on strengthening Utah's Democracy, Utah has some of the most lax campaign finance laws in the nation. That's hardly a proud distinction. Utah's laws should be on par with the rest of the nation, if not stricter."

January 29, 2009: "Huntsman addresses budget cuts" by Jed Layton (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, said Utah lawmakers would be smart to use bonds as a way to obtain cash revenue and limit budget cuts. Bonds are loans that states, cities and corporations can obtain to build roads and buildings. Jowers said Utah has an AAA bond rating, the highest possible, at a time when many other states have no borrowing credibility. Cash that would have previously been used to build economy-stimulating roads and buildings could then be put to softening budget cuts."

January 28, 2009: "Laymakers flip budget process" by Jed Layton (Utah Daily Chronicle) "Jowers also said both the House and the Senate have new leadership this session. David Clark, R-Santa Clara, is the new speaker of the House and Michael Waddoups, R-West, Jordan is the new president of the Senate. 'New leadership always causes a level of chaos,' Jowers said. 'Different styles, constituents and philosophies change the way people interact and work. There will be some adapting on Capitol Hill for the first little while.'”

January 28, 2009: "Admins hope Legislature will follow Huntsman's plan" by Jed Layton (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, a Republican and director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is a supporter of Huntsman’s plan to use the fund. 'I understand some legislators’ concerns to be fiscally responsible,' he said. 'But to not use the fund is allowing ideology (to) supersede logic.'"

January 27, 2009: "Shurtleff spent $730,000 on re-election bid" by Chris Rizo (LegalNewsline.com) "'Mark Shurtleff is a popular politician and most people approve of his job,' Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, told Legal Newsline in a pre-election."

January 26, 2009: "Miller to lead ethics commission" by Jed Layton (Utah Daily Chronicle) "Larry Miller will lead a state ethics commission along with Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. announced Thursday."

January 23, 2009: "Hinckley panelists predict reform and gay rights to take backseat" by Alex Cragun (Daily Utah Chronicle) "In a special forum Thursday at the Hinckley Institute of Politics, local newspaper reporters said Utah can expect more budget cuts to go through the Utah Legislature this session, while ethics, health care reform, liquor laws and gay rights take the backseat.
The Hinckley Institute hosted the forum with Doug Fabrizio’s political-broadcasting “RadioWest” show on KUER and invited two reporters from The Salt Lake Tribune and one reporter from the Deseret News to discuss what people could expect from the 2009 Utah legislative session."

January 23, 2009: "Huntsman appoints ethics reform panel" by Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) "Huntsman and University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics director Kirk Jowers, who will 'drive' the commission's work, both said one area where Utah clearly lags behind other states is campaign finances.  'We have the most lax laws in the nation,' said Jowers, adding Utah allows any amount of money into campaigns from any source.  Hinting that Utah may be behind the times, Jowers said that maybe 'we missed a reform passed 40 years ago' in another state."

January 23, 2009: "Gov Launches Commission on Strengthening Democracy, Ethics" by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, will be the commission's vice chairman. 'We have missed so many reforms on some of these areas that we might be able to just learn from all the mistakes of these other states and just put in a really top flight-level model, you know, [of] democratic governance,' Jowers says."

January 23, 2009: "Names in the Game" Associated Press (International Herald Tribune) "'The people have to have a faith in all aspects of our government. They have to be engaged. They have to understand why decisions are made,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at
the University of Utah and the commission's co-chairman."

January 23, 2009: "Huntsman tabs Jazz owner for ethics panel" by Brock Vergakis (The Associated Press) "Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, will serve as the commission's
co-chairman. He said polls repeatedly show that the public wants its government to enact meaningful reforms and it is time that Utah takes..."

January 22, 2009: "Utah Legislative preview" with Doug Fabrizio (KUER) RadioWest broadcast live from the HInckley Institute of Politics. Kirk Jowers joins the panel to preview the upcoming legislative session. It will be tougher going this year for Utah's lawmakers than in years past. A faltering economy will mean difficult decisions as they try and balance the budget. We'll talk about the players, the relationships and of course, the issues at play this year. 

January 22, 2009: "Governor organizes government ethics commission" by John Daley (KSL Ch 5) "'We have 50 other states and the District of Columbia that have been making reforms, and the federal government. And we can see what has worked what has not worked, what can be applicable to our state,' said Kirk Jowers, vice chair of the new commission."

January 22, 2009: "Legislators Meet with LDS Leaders on State Liquor Laws" by Sandy Reisgraf (KSTU Fox 13) "The question is not whether your talking to too many, but too few of these constituents; are some people being excluded from the conversation who have just right to comment as others, and that to me the more important question." stated Kirk Jowers, of the Hinckley Institute of Politics regarding state representatives meeting with LDS church leaders to discuss state liquor laws.

January 22, 2009: "Governor Wants Utahns Engaged in Democracy" by Fields Moseley (KUTV News) "Ethics reform and campaign finance can be touchy subjects with legislators.  Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley institute of Politics thinks those affect how people view government. 'We basically have one of the two or three laxest campaign finance laws in the country,' said Jowers."

January 21, 2009: "Hinckley interns brave inauguration crowds in DC" by Michael McFall (Daily Utah Chronicle) "U student interns joined hundreds of thousands of Americans in celebrating the inauguration of Barack Obama, the 44th president, but some watched and listened in different venues than they had originally planned. In Washington, D.C., interns with the Hinckley Institute of Politics had the chance to be among those packed into hotels, buses, sidewalks and streets to see the inauguration of the country’s first black president."

January 21, 2009: "Students celebrate at Kingsbury" by Isabella Bravo (Daily Uath Chronicle) "The broadcast was followed by a panel discussion with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers and political science professor Tim Chambliss, moderated by Doug Fabrizio of KUER’s RadioWest. Jowers said Obama has a 76 percent approval rating, but this might not last forever. 'President Bush had a 91 percent approval rating at one point,' Jowers said. 'The party’s over. That’s what happens to those 80 percent approval ratings. I’m hoping Obama will take on these challenges.'”

January 21, 2009: "Larry H. Miller to co-chair ethics commission" (KSL) Kirk Jowers, who directs the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, will help lead the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Democracy.

January 21, 2009: "Inaugural impressions from the University of Utah" (Blog) Past Hinckley Institute of Politics interns travel to Washington, D.C. to attend the Inaugural Ceremony.

January 21, 2009: "2,000 watch big event at U" by Elaine Jarvik (Deseret News) Over 2,000 people turned out to watch President Obama's Inauguration at the Hinckley sponsored Kingsbury Hall event.

January 20, 2009: "Change requires participation" by Alan Monsen (Daily Utah Chronicle) "There are many ways to get involved, such as the Hinckley Institute of Politics, which offers opportunities to influence the nation and world and make an impact. The recent Rock the Vote campaign registered over 3,000 students, some who had never voted before."

January 20, 2009: "Barack Obama's Inauguration - Utah Reacts" with Doug Fabrizio (KUER) Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics said, "President Obama is correct, we need to move forward..." during the post inauguration panel at Kingsbury Hall. Click here to listen.

January 19, 2009: "Welcome back, guv, we're kind of proud" by Rebecca Walsh (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'Leavitt distinguished himself above and beyond all other Bush Cabinet secretaries,' says Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'He's seen by both the right and the left as someone who was innovative, straightforward. He's a superstar.'"

January 15, 2009: "Even in Republican Utah, Bush presidency rated lackluster, poor" by Thomas Burr (The Salt Lake Tribune) "The economic troubles, paired with the groundswell of support for incoming President Barack Obama, could account for the drop, says Kirk Jowers, head of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. 'Part of this lower approval rating is the natural evolution of our presidents,' Jowers says. "We elect them, we love them, as we do with Obama right now. Then they go through highs and lows, but typically [at the end of the cycle] we haven't liked our presidents much. We're tired of them and ready for the next new thing.'"

January 15, 2009: "Campus to broadcast Obama inauguration" by Jed Layton (The Daily Utah Chronicle) "Following the coverage there will be a panel discussion featuring Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, and Tim Chambless,  an assistant professor of political science, at 11 a.m. The discussion will center on how the transition of power between presidents has been able to remain peaceful."

January 15, 2009: "Hot ticket: Eagles will land in Sandy" (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'A Peaceful Transition of Power: Barack Obama Becomes the 44th President of the United States,' with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers and other political experts; Kingsbury Hall."

January 13, 2009: "Times' Friedman to speak at UMNH" by Alex Cragun (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute, said Friedman is a highly respected commentator and an innovator in eco-economics.'We want the students to meet and hear Friedman to challenge some of their opinions,' Jowers said."

January 12, 2009: "Two Free Inauguration Events" by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW) "The venue will air live coverage from the inauguration, which will be followed by a panel discussion led by Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk ..."

January 12, 2009: "Jowers picked to lead state ethics commission" by Jed Layton (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, is alarmed by the results of the 2008 election. Not that he is unhappy with any of the winning candidates. Instead, he is worried about the low voter turnout."

January 7, 2009: "Walsh: Shurtleff's timing on Utes suspect" by Rebecca Walsh (The Salt Lake Tribune) "Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers doesn't mind. 'Whether or not it's for political purposes, God bless him. The more pressure we can put on the BCS, the better. The BCS needs to fold.'"

January 6, 2009: "Governor Jon Huntsman" with Doug Fabrizio (KUER) Kirk Jowers, Lisa Riley Roche and Rebecca Walsh participated in a live RadioWest panel to discuss Governor Joh Huntsman's reelection and future administration. Click here to listen.

January 2, 2009: Utah Now, "Year in Review" with Doug Fabrizio (KUED) Looking back at 2008 to talk about the highlights and the characters who made '08 one of the most interesting years - in years.  X-96's Bill Allred, The Salt Lake Tribune's Rebecca Walsh, Richard Piatt from KSL and Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics were among the guests.

By Paul Rolly

Tribune Columnist

June 22, 2009 Looking for Mr. Right? by Paul Rolly (Salt Lake Tribune) While he seems content to continue on for the foreseeable future with his current professional duties, the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers is getting to be a hot topic in Utah Republican circles.

Jun 19, 2009 Commission Focuses on Campaign Finance Reform by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW) The governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy focused on campaign finance yesterday for its sixth meeting. Acting Commission Chairman Kirk Jowers says enacting reasonable contribution limits would encourage more grassroots campaigning in Utah, which in turn would boost civic involvement.

June 18, 2009 U grad to lead College Republican National Committee by Chris Mumford (Daily Utah Chronicle) Part of the solution, according to Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers, is finding a message that connects with a younger audience.“I think the number one issue for young people right now is probably the number one issue for all people, which is the economy,” Jowers said.

June 15, 2009 Hinckley Institute DC 2009 Intern Julie Sagers featured in online by the Salt Lake Tribune

June 13, 2009 Utahn takes on national Republican role by By Thomas Burr (The Salt Lake Tribune) Howell, who graduated last month in political science from the University of Utah, boasts an impressive resume for his age. He interned at the White House's Office of Strategic Initiatives -- coincidentally, a Rove arm of the Bush administration -- in 2007 and for former Rep. Chris Cannon in 2006 as part of the U's Hinckley Institute of Politics program.

June 12, 2009 U. graduate heads College Republicans by Michael R. McFall
(Deseret News) Zach Howell, who graduated last spring after an internship with the Hinckley Institute of Politics, was elected as the College Republicans' national chairman. The last U. student and Hinckley intern to hold a high leadership position was Karl Rove as its executive director during the mid 1970s — or as the GOP bitterly remembers it, the Watergate scandal. "Essentially, the two former interns had to take over at the lowest points of the Republican Party," said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute.

June 12, 2009 Diplomatic absence for Republican by Rebecca Carroll ( The National) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, said that although Mr Huntsman was looking like an interesting presidential candidate, “the reality of his future for 2012 was more difficult”.

June 8, 2009 Herbert already scouting for replacement once he becomes Utah
governor by Robert Gehrke (Salt Lake Tribune) Others said to be in the mix include former Senate President and Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce President Lane Beattie, Draper Rep. Greg Hughes, and Kirk Jowers, the director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

June 6, 2009 Political seminar set for teachers (Deseret News) The Hinckley Institute at the University of Utah is accepting applications for the Huntsman Seminar in Constitutional Government for Teachers. The seminar focuses on improving the quality of civic education in Utah schools. Participants gain valuable knowledge and insight into current events in American politics by interacting with political experts, judges, university faculty and elected officials.

June 5, 2009 Friday Buzz Who’s Being ‘Mentioned’? by LaVarr Webb & Associates (Utah Policy Daily) Here’s a rundown of prospective and for-certain candidates for various upcoming races. Utah Policy will be publishing a candidate tracking service soon so readers can follow candidates through the various stages of a race. -- 2012 U.S. Senate – R: Orrin Hatch, Jason Chaffetz, Kirk Jowers; D: Jim Matheson.

June 4, 2009 Becker blinks on Library Square By Rosemary Winters (The Salt Lake Tribune) Ultimately, the "Library Square saga," will help Becker, too, said Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. "It shows that he is willing to think outside the box, but then actively encourage public input and participation and make a firm decision," Jowers said. "Had he ignored the overwhelming opinion of his constituents ... it could have been his death knell."

June 2, 2009 Josh Romney would consider lieutenant-governor position by Lisa Riley-Roche (Deseret News) Romney said there are already a number of "great people who would do a great job" as governor looking at the race, including Herbert, University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics director Kirk Jowers and Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce head Lane Beattie.

May 26, 2009 Marking 20 at the Hinckley Institute: Jayne Nelson by Steve Gehrke (Salt Lake Tribune) Jayne Nelson has managed the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics since the day George H. W. Bush defeated Michael Dukakis to become the 41st president. She now single-handedly commands a workload so demanding, her co-workers say it would challenge an entire staff.

"I don't know anyone in the state who could do what she does," said Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers, who called Nelson "incredibly efficient, strong and humble."

May 25, 2009 Utah Republican Challenges Sen. Bennett from the Outside By Michael Teitelbaum, (CQ Politics) Chaffetz’ success may have emboldened Shurtleff “to take advantage of the anti-Washington feeling” by entering the Senate race, said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

May 24, 2009 Plenty of qualified prospects for Herbert's lieutenant governor By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb (Deseret News)Others mentioned are Sen. John Valentine, not likely because he's from Utah County; Rep. Rhonda Menlove from northern Utah; and Kirk Jowers at the U.'s Hinckley Institute.

May 22, 2009 Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers was a guest of UTAH NOW with Doug Fabrezio discussing Utah Governor Jon Huntsman's stepping down to become Ambassador to China.

May 21, 2009 Mark Shurtleff says he's ready to take on Sen. Bennett by Joe Pyrah (Daily Herald) "He's not Chris Cannon," he said of Bennett. "He's not." That's true, said Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. "Cannon had endured a series of difficult races," Jowers said of the former representative being repeatedly challenged and "generally disliked."

May 20, 2009 Herbert is hunting for new No. 2 By Lisa Riley Roche and Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) Other potential election rivals — and possible lieutenant governor picks — include Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce head Lane Beattie and University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers.

May 20th, 2009 Shurtleff enters race for Bennett's Senate seat By Richard Piatt (KSL News) "I'm not sure it will pay off. Shurtleff has his own background, his own baggage on conservative issues, so he's not the empty vessel they can put their hopes and dreams into," said Kirk Jowers, executive director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics.

May 19, 2009 Governor's Race May Include Salt Lake County Leadersby Jeff Robinson (KCPW) interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about his plans to run for Governor or accept a Lieutenant Governor invitation.

May 19, 2009 KUTV Channel 2’s Rod Decker interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about his plans to run for Governor or accept a Lieutenant Governor invitation.

May 19, 2009 KSL Channel 5’s Rich Piatt interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about his plans to run for Governor or accept a Lieutenant Governor invitation.

May 19, 2009 Before China, Huntsman was inching toward '12 run By Robert Gehrke (The Salt Lake Tribune) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, said 2012 would have been "almost impossible" for Huntsman to win -- going against an incumbent president who Huntsman had supported on the federal stimulus.

May 19, 2009 Who Will Run in 2010 Special Election? by Jeff Robinson (KCPW) With Governor Jon Huntsman departing to become Ambassador to China, pending his confirmation by the U.S. Senate, the field is now wide open to contenders who want his job in the November 2010 special election.  Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers, among others, is discussed.

May 18, 2009 Field of potential candidates taking shape for 2010 election
The Salt Lake Tribune reports other possible leading Republican candidates include: Fred Lampropoulos, a 2004 hopeful, Utah House Speaker Dave Clark, State Senator John Valentine (who has already formed a campaign organization), Salt Lake Chamber President Lane Beattie, Zions Bank President Scott Anderson, Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

May 18, 2009 Candidates For Utah Gov. Speed Up Campaigns For 2010 by Nicole Hunter Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about Governor Jon Huntsman nomination to become Ambassador to China and the 2010 gubernatorial election.

May 18, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared live on KSL Radio's "The Doug Wright Show" to discuss the transition from Governor Huntsman to Herbert and the future of Utah politics.

May 18, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared on NPR Radio's "All Things Considered" with correspondent Howard Berkes to discuss the transition from Governor Huntsman's appointment as Chinese Ambassador.

May 18, 2009 The Next McCain? by Robert Gehrke (The Daily Beast) The China dispatch maybe be a short-term detour, but one with little downside. “2012 looked almost impossible for him, despite how well he’d been doing getting publicity,” says Kirk Jowers, a University of Utah political science professor and attorney who has worked with both the McCain and Romney camps.

May 17, 2009 Huntsman Out - Herbert In by Jennifer Napier-Pearce (KUER)
Political circles are still a-buzz with news that President Obama tapped Utah Governor Jon Huntsman to serve as U.S. Ambassador to China. Among the hotly-debated topics: What kind of a governor will Gary Herbert be? And what does Huntsman's exit mean for Utah politics? KUER's Jennifer Napier-Pearce interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers.

May 17, 2009 Utah GOP governor is Obama's pick as China envoy KUTV Anchor Brian Mulahey interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers.

May 17, 2009 Names sell newspapers by Frank Pignanelli and Lavar Webb (Deseret News) Brett Tolman, Kirk Jowers, Aaron Osmond: They just really, really want to run for something.

May 17, 2009 Candidates stepping up to take Huntsman's place (KSL News)
The Deseret News reports Republican Sen. John Valentine of Orem has put together a campaign organization. He says he's waiting to see how Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert does at the helm before he officially throws his hat in for the 2010 special election. Other prospects include: Kirk Jowers, executive director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics

May 17, 2009 Race to replace Huntsman may draw broad field By Derek P. Jensen (The Salt Lake Tribune) Fred Lampropoulos, who ran a well-financed 2004 bid, could join the mix as could Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce President Lane Beattie, Zions Bank President Scott Anderson or Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics.

May 17, 2009 Huntsman tapped: Obama's selection of China envoy sets off a political furor by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Other potential candidates being mentioned include Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce President Lane
Beattie; Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics; Scott Anderson, head of Zions Bank; and Utah's only Democratic member of Congress, Rep. Jim Matheson.

May 16, 2009 Huntsman accepts post as ambassador to China by Andrew Adams (KSL Radio) Hinckley Institute director Kirk Jowers is interviewed regarding Huntsman's post as ambassador to China.

May 15, 2009 KSL News Radio Interview regarding Governor Huntsman's appointment to ambassador to China

May 16, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, was interviewed by Brian Mulahey of KUTV 2 News regarding the implications of Governor Huntsman's appointment to be China's new ambassador.

May 16, 2009: "Gov. Huntsman Accepts Obama's Call to Serve as U.S. Ambassador to China" by Scott McCain (Fox 13 News): Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics was interviewed regarding this development.

May 16, 2009 Huntsman accepts post as ambassador to China by Keith McCord (KSL News) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah said, "It's great for the state of Utah. We can't keep our governors on the farm. We've lost our last two to administrations."

May 14, 2009 New Utah Campaign Finance Law Raises Questions by John McArdle (Roll Call) “There is no question there are several state legislators who are eyeing” federal races, said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics. “We have two of the longest-serving, oldest Senators. We have a fourth [Congressional] seat we will receive [in the next reapportionment]. So I think there was certainly some feeling of, ‘Lets give ourselves maximum flexibility with these campaign funds.’” 

May 13, 2009 Kirk Jowers on Shurtleff, Bridgewater Candidacies by Jeff Robinson (KCPW News) KCPW's Jeff Robinson spoke with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers about the challengers Bennett will face at the 2010 State Republican Convention.

May 12, 2009 Shurtleff mistakenly 'tweets' campaign plans By Josh Loftin (Deseret News) "Shurtleff has postponed this announcement so many times, he's starting to look like Fred Thompson," said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. The actor-turned-politician kept putting off getting into the race for the 2008 GOP presidential nomination, and once Thompson did get in the race, he didn't stay long. Jowers said there's a danger of voters losing interest in Shurtleff's candidacy.

May 12, 2009 Bridgewater to challenge Bennett for Senate seat by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said all incumbents are vulnerable right now, not just Bennett. He said the strategy behind a Bridgewater candidacy could be that "someone new and fresh might have the best chance to take advantage of this anti-Washington feeling."

May 7, 2009 Romney supporter pleased by FEC vote by United Press International "Campaign finance enforcement should err on the side of citizen participation and clarity, as it did in this instance," said attorney Kirk Jowers.

May 6, 2009 Obama's campaign manager fears Jon Huntsman the most in 2012 by Chris Vanocur (KUTV News) Kirk Jowers of the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics says, "Huntsman has positioned himself in a great place right now because he is the only presidential candidate really running in the middle right now.". . . And Jowers - who has advised three republican presidential candidates - says Huntsman has now, "...become a top five candidate for 2012."

May 6, 2009 SLC interns gain D.C. perspective By Jennifer Bischoff (Salt Lake Tribune) She found her internship through the Hinckley Institute of Politics, an organization at the University of Utah, which provides opportunities for students to work in different areas of government.

May 5, 2009 FEC closes probe of Romney campaign, Utah developer by Thomas Burr (Salt Lake Tribune) Gardner's attorney in the matter, Kirk Jowers, also the head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, issued a statement on behalf of Gardner saying he is gratified that the FEC dismissed the case.

May 5, 2009 Lieutenant governor won't enforce contributions law by Sheena Mcfarland (Salt Lake Tribune) In Utah, supporters of the state's lax campaign finance laws often argue the laws are lenient because everything is disclosed for voters to see, said Kirk Jowers, a campaign finance attorney. However, that only works if candidates accurately report contributions. “If voters cannot get timely contributor information, it eliminates their ability to fairly see influence on that legislator that may or may not make a difference to them,” said Jowers, who also is the director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

May 5, 2009 Governor Huntsman causing national, local stir By Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said Huntsman "is getting the rewards of sticking his neck out on issues," including support for gay rights and addressing climate change — in one of the nation's reddest and most conservative states.

May 5, 2009 U. student named Truman Scholar By Wendy Leonard (Deseret News) "Patrick is an incredibly gifted student who serves for all the right reasons," said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute. Jowers received the Truman scholarship as a U. student in 1990 and said Reimherr is deserving of the honor, due to his "tremendous work ethic, brilliant mind and absolute integrity."

April 29, 2009 Utahns prefer Romney to Huntsman in new poll By Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said most Utahns "have not yet focused on the fact that these two favorite sons are attempting to push the party in different directions." For now, he said, both are being judged mostly on their likability and ties to the state.

April 28, 2009: "Obama has slim support of Utahns after 100 days" by Bob Bernick Jr. and Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) "'Utahns, like the nation, are giving President Obama the benefit of the doubt,' said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'He's such a likable man in many ways that their concerns with some of the specific issues are not taking their toll on him yet.'"

April 28, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, was interviewed by KSL Radio's Scott Sieger regarding Senator Arlen Specter's switch from the Republican to Democratic Party.

April 23, 2009: "Governor: Commission Change Not Result of Lawmaker Pressure" by Jeff Robinson (KCPW) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is co-chairman of the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy. "Governor Huntsman added that campaign finance reform will be another major component the commission will study, noting that Utah is one of only three states that does not limit campaign contributions. Learn more about the commission at strengthendemocracy.org."

Apil 23, 2009: "Governor defends decision to drop legislative ethics from commission" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is co-chairman of the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy.

April 23, 2009: "Guv says pared-back commission is still worthwhile" by Robert Gehrke (The Salt Lake Tribune)Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is co-chairman of the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy.

April 23, 2009: "KUED Airs Hinckley Institute Forum Featuring Two University Presidents" (KUED 7) "On Sunday night, May 2 (the morning of Monday, May 3) at 12 a.m., KUED will air a previously taped Hinckley Institute of Politics Forum with University of Utah President Michael K. Young and Brigham Young University President Cecil O. Samuelson, discussing the future of higher education."

April 23, 2009: "Frog expert to speak at SLC Main Library" by Brian Maffly (Salt Lake Tribune) "The Nature of Things, which the museum stages in partnership with the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics, is completing its third year under a grant from the R. Harold Burton Foundation."

April 21, 2009: "New advocate position would oversee media" by Michael McFall and Jeremy Thompson (Daily Utah Chronicle) "However, Jayme Day, editor in chief of Social Dialogue, and Jonathan Spendlove, editor in chief of The Hinckley Journal of Politics—two publications that would be directly
affected by the proposal—said they know nothing about it."

April 20, 2009: "Governor's Commission Drops Legislative Ethics and Redistricting" by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW News) "Kirk Jowers, acting chairman of the commission and the director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, says legislative leaders made no secret of their feelings about the commission taking on the issues. 'I've heard directly and indirectly from various legislators that they were not happy...'"

April 20, 2009: "GOP may get more seats in Congress" by Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) "But with Democrats currently holding a 75-plus seat majority in the 435-member U.S. House of Representatives, it will take more than redistricting to get the GOP back in control of the body in 2012. 'Still, it is a first bright spot for (national) Republicans,' said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics.

April 18, 2009: "Dem chairman takes behind-the-scenes approach" by Jeremiah Stettler (The Salt Lake Tribune) "U. Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers says Clark's low-profile approach may have served the party well last year."

April 17, 2009: "Presidents discuss future of higher education" by Deborah Rafferty (Daily Utah Chronicle) "'We looked at what we can do today to help students in 10 years, 20 years and 30 years,' said U President Michael Young on Thursday at a Hinckley Institute of Politics forum about the changes and problems facing the future of higher education."

April 16, 2009: "University Presidents Say Funding Sources Will Change in the Future" by Faroe Robinson (KCPW) "At a forum on higher education at the Hinckley Institute of Politics this morning, he said this could lead to major changes. 'Will these different revenue streams change the way in which we behave?'"

April 16, 2009: "U., Y. chiefs discuss future of higher ed" by Wendy Leonard (Deseret News) "Brigham Young University President Cecil O. Samuelson and University of Utah President Michael K. Young both expressed optimism during the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics Forum on Thursday, but they made clear their thoughts were, as Samuelson said, "only speculation."

April 16, 2009: "Guv wants ethics study narrowed" by Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) "'I serve (on the commission) at the pleasure of the governor,' said commission co-chairman Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'We had a very broad mandate' before Huntsman asked for the narrowing of the study."

April 14, 2009: "New presidential pet becomes part of Washington politics" by Richard Piatt (KSL 5 News) "'It's a way for PETA to get its message across, for shelter dogs to get theirs, even the cat lovers. You know, why didn't they get a cat? So it just goes on and on,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah."

April 13, 2009: "Monday Buzz" by LaVarr Webb (Utah Policy Daily) "BYU Pres. Cecil Samuelson and U. of U. Pres. Michael Young talking about the future of higher education, at the Hinckley Institute."

April 9, 2009: "New state law could open backdoor for federal candidates" by Robert Gehrke (Salt Lake Tribune) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics and an attorney who practices campaign-finance law. "Candidates have an absolute right to use their personal funds for their own political campaign activity," Jowers said."

April 07, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics intern, Patrick Reimherr was selected as 2009 Truman Scholar.

April 04, 2009: "Walsh: Legislature enacted ethics reform: Is it enough?" by Rebecca Walsh (Salt Lake Tribune) "Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers believes lawmakers were forced to act on ethics reform with the commission waiting in the wings. 'It did force them to make some first steps,' he says."

April 04, 2009: "Did Romney's religion cost him the presidency?" by Micheale De Groote (Mormon Times) "Kirk Jowers has an answer for whether Mitt
Romney's presidential bid was lost because of Mormonism: 'I can unequivocally tell you that the answer is 'yes, no and maybe.'"

April 02, 2009: "U coach, director take on the Wheelin’ Jazz" by Andreas Rivera (Daily Utah Chronicle) "U Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers, won the game by three points, 83-80, when they bombarded their opponents and audience members with streams of Silly String."

April 02, 2009: "Gore and LDS leaders meet" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) "Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said the visit validates 'the church's significant efforts to construct environmentally friendly buildings,' including part of the massive downtown City Creek development that is under way."

April 02, 2009: "Former Colombian president addresses drug war, economy" by Isabella Bravo (Daily Utah Chronicle) "The U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics brought Gaviria to the U to speak Thursday on the role of international leaders in shaping economic and public policy."

April 02, 2009: "Al Gore and LDS President Meet Privately" by Max Roth (KSTU Fox 13) "'I think its a real validation for the LDS church. They've made real efforts to be progressive on the environment and this helps their cause as they’ve kind of stepped out to do it,' said Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics."

March 28, 2009: "Utahns' opinions are sought on ethics reform" by Kristy Kuhn (Deseret News) Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers,

March 27, 2009: "China soon to ival US, Times editor says" by Trent Lowe (Daily Utah Chronicle) Kahn spoke Thursday at the U Hinckley Institute of Politics about China’s up-and-coming status as a superpower of the world.

March 26, 2009: "U. student leader named Truman scholar" by Brian Maffly (The Salt Lake Tribune) "This is both an extraordinary honor and a remarkable tribute to the accomplishments of Patrick Reimherr and to the [U.'s] Hinckley Institute of Politics."

March 26, 2009: "University of Utah Student Awarded Truman Scholarship" (KUTV News) For the third consecutive year, past Hinckley Institute of Politics interns have been Truman Scholars. This years Truman Scholarship recipient is Patrick Reihmerr.

March 26, 2009: "Reimherr named as Truman scholar" by Isabella Bravo (Daily Utah Chronicle) “'The Truman Scholarship is the most competitive undergraduate scholarship available in this very specialized field of public service,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics and a [1990] Truman scholar."

March 26, 2009: "Harry S. Truman Scholarship Awarded to U of U Student" (U of U News Center) "'This is both an extraordinary honor and a remarkable tribute to the accomplishments of Patrick Reimherr and to the Hinckley Institute of Politics,' said University of Utah President Michael K. Young."

March 25, 2009: "A Few Questions for Jayne Nelson" (News for Faculty & Staff, U of U) Assitant Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, Jayne Nelson, interviewed for campus faculty and staff news.

March 20, 2009: "Let the 'Mentioning' Begin" by Lavarr Webb and Associates (Utah Policy Daily) "So a group of political junkies were sitting around at lunch talking about who has been mentioned by the Great Mentioners  as 2012 gubernatorial prospects. Here's the list:  Republicans: Gary Herbert, Mark Shurtleff, Lane Beattie, John Valentine, David Clark, Kirk Jowers, Kevin Garn, Brent Brown, Merrill Cook, Natalie Gochnour, Chris Cannon, Jason Chaffetz.  Democrat: Jim Matheson. The list will grow, and watch for some surprise candidates."

March 12, 2009: "Walsh: Lowbrow session at Capitol" by Rebecca Walsh (Salt Lake Tribune) "You can take his word for it. House Republicans did -- in droves, along with a couple weak-willed Democrats. They chided Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers on Wednesday for daring to commission a speech from liberal New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman, who accepts global warming and advocates a carbon tax."

March 12, 2009: "2009 Legislature makes significant headway in ethics reform" by John Daley (KSL News) "According to the Hinckley Institute of Politics, 33 other states make lobbyists disclose the how much money they're paid, 43 other states select statewide nominees through a primary election, and 36 other states limit campaign contributions and require contributors to list their occupation or employers."

March 11, 2009: "Friedman urges green revolution" by Rochelle McConkie (Daily Utah Chronicle) The renowned New York Times columnist and bestselling author urged a packed audience at Abravanel Hall on Tuesday night to start a “green revolution” using energy technology. . . . 'Pragmatism is going to have to supersede partisanship very quickly,' said Jowers, a Republican. 'On the environment and so many other issues, we are reaching a state of emergency, but neither political party seems willing to see it that way.' The Hinckley Institute honored Friedman as a Hinckley fellow for his relationship with the U."

March 11, 2009: "Hot, flat and smug" by Glen Warchol (Salt Lake Tribune) Hinckley Institute of Politics fellow, Thomas Friedman, spoke to a sold out crowd at Abravenal Hall regarding the topics found in his new book, Hot, Flat and Crowded.

March 11, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, interviewed with Chris Vanocur from ABC news regarding currently debated ethics bills.

March 11, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, interviewed with Rich Piatt from KSL news regarding the legislative wrap-up`.

March 11, 2009: "Friedman: Government must stimulate green revolution" by Brandon Loomis (Salt Lake Tribune) Hinckley Institute of Politics fellow, Thomas Friedman, spoke to a sold out crowd at Abravenal Hall regarding the topics found in his new book, Hot, Flat and Crowded.

March 11, 2009: "Friedman pushes for greener America" by Wendy Leonard (Deseret News) "The Utah Museum of Natural History presented the lecture in cooperation with the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the U."

March 9, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared on KSL Radio with reporter Becky Bruce from KSL radio regarding the Friedman lecture and related events.

March 9, 2009: "Thomas Friedman to speak at Abravanel Hall Tuesday" (KSL News) Friedman is reportedly a huge "get" for the lecture series. Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics Kirk Jowers tells KSL he accepts one speaking engagement for about every 20 requests he receives. He's one of the most sought after speakers in the world," Jowers added.

March 7, 2009: "Walsh: Is the U's keynote worth $75,000?" by Rebecca Walsh (Salt Lake Tribune) "'When you have a speaker that generates this amount of press and public interest, it helps shed light on everything else you're doing,' says Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers. 'It's the trickledown effect.'"

March 5, 2009: "Commission seeks public comment on increasing voter turnout" (Deseret News) "The commission, led by the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers, is looking at legislative ethics, campaign finance laws, redistricting, lobbying regulations and how elections are conducted."

March 4, 2009: "Students offer bribes to Legislature in protest" by Blair Dee Hodges (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U Hinckley Institute of Politics, said ethics reform has recently come to the forefront of Utah politics. Jowers, who was appointed by Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. to head the Governor’s Commission on Strengthening Utah’s Democracy."

February 23, 2009: "Is Buttars' speech public, or private?" by Aaron Falk (Deseret News) "The controversy raises the question of whether a state legislator can ever truly speak as a private citizen. According to Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, the answer is no. 'You just can't sever the two,' he said. 'The practical effect, in this day and age, is that a public official is always speaking as a public official.' With the advent of the Internet, and particularly Web sites such as YouTube, elected officials must be ever-cautious of what they say, Jowers said."

February 20, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared live on KSL Radio with reporter Sheryl Worsley regarding Senator Buttars being stripped of his chairmanship positions due to his controversial statements.

February 20, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared on KUER Radio with reporter Jennifer Alisi Napier-Pearce regarding the legislature's ethics bills.

February 19, 2009: "3 nominated for Truman Scholars" by Trent Lowe (Daily Utah Chronicle) "'This is a huge accomplishment for the candidates and for the university,' said Marko Mijic, a staff assistant at the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'It really shows what kind of students the U prepares.' . . . Jowers, who received the scholarship in 1990, said that the U has produced the past two Truman Scholars from Utah: Bryson Morgan in 2007 and Ingrid Price in 2008."

February 19, 2009: "Hutnsman invited to address South Carolina politicos: Huntsman trip seem as first test 2012 presidential waters" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said if Huntsman wants the opportunity to seriously consider entering the race, it makes sense for him to develop good will across the country.  'Republicans lack a clear leader at this point, and Gov. Huntsman finds himself one of a small pack of potential national leaders. So he is simply in a lot of demand right now,' Jowers said."

February 11, 2009: "Walsh: Guv, church play gay politics" by Rebecca Walsh (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'It immediately hurts him with core Republican voters. But long term, he has at least four years for this to play out, says Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'Gov. Huntsman feels the calling to be a leader of the rethinking and reshaping of the Republican Party. He's concerned about the future.'"

February 11, 2009: "Prop 8 donors pinpointed on website map" by Brent Hunsaker (ABC4 News) "Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah said, 'For the most part I think disclosure is good.  But there are negatives.  It’s not the silver bullet that some people think it is because it can be chilling and it can even make harassment quite easy.'” 

February 10, 2009: "Guv's civil-unions stand panned, praised" by Rosemary Winters and Robert Gehrke (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'He will come out on issues even though they are not popular with his party or even within his state, but so far people have respected him for that,' Jowers said, noting Huntsman's efforts..."

February 9, 2009: "Legislator compaigns get 81% fo funds from special interests" by Lee Davidson (Deseret News) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, says Utah campaign laws — which unlike most states have no donation limits, and allow direct donations by corporations — tend to discourage lawmakers from seeking donations from regular citizens because easy, big special-interest money can supply all they need."

February 9, 2009: "Lawmakers must regain voter trust" by Kirk Jowers and Matthew Sanderson (The Daily Utah Chronicle) Hinckley Institute of Politics' director Kirk Jowers co-authored an op-ed on voter turnout and trust in Utah.

February 6, 2009: "United States: Political Activity Law Bulletin - Disclosure Rules for Lobbyist Bundling" by Trevor Potter, Kirk L. Jowers, Joseph M. Birkenstock, Stacy Q. Cline, Matthew T. Sanderson and Kirsty B. Tsadick. Co-authored work by Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, Published in the Political Acitivty Law Bulletin, Winter 2009.

February 4, 2009: Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, appeared on UPR's Access Utah today with host Lee Austin and fellow guest Meg Holbrook regarding the Governor’s Commission on Strengthening Utah’s Democracy. 

February 2, 2009: This week on Utah NOW, the always-dicey question of ethics in the Utah Legislature.  This week Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers and Ken Verodia join host Doug Fabrezio to talk about the efforts to reform the rules of conduct on Utah's Capitol Hill.

February 2, 2009: "Sparking voter turnout" by Aaron Zundel (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Headed by Utah Jazz owner Larry Miller, and co-chaired by the U’s own Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics the 16–member commission hopes to investigate those perceptions, primarily by focusing on ethics reform.

February 2009: "Campus All-Stars - Achievements of U of U Faculty, Staff, Students, and More" (U of U Alumni Association) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, has been named by Gov. Jon Huntsman to head an independent government ethics commission... Jowers says he hopes the commission will make recommendations in areas such as campaign finance laws, lobbying rules, and party nomination systems, among many others. The commission will not make any recommendations until after lawmakers adjourn in early March."

January 30, 2009: "Ethics Reform" with Doug Fabrizio (KUED Utah Now) This week on Utah NOW, the always-dicey question of ethics in the Utah Legislature.  This week Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers and Ken Verodia join host Doug Fabrezio to talk about the efforts to reform the rules of conduct on Utah's Capitol Hill.

January 29, 2009: "Utah wants ethics reform" (Deseret News) "According to Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah and co-chairman of the newly empaneled Governor's Commission on strengthening Utah's Democracy, Utah has some of the most lax campaign finance laws in the nation. That's hardly a proud distinction. Utah's laws should be on par with the rest of the nation, if not stricter."

January 29, 2009: "Huntsman addresses budget cuts" by Jed Layton (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, said Utah lawmakers would be smart to use bonds as a way to obtain cash revenue and limit budget cuts. Bonds are loans that states, cities and corporations can obtain to build roads and buildings. Jowers said Utah has an AAA bond rating, the highest possible, at a time when many other states have no borrowing credibility. Cash that would have previously been used to build economy-stimulating roads and buildings could then be put to softening budget cuts."

January 28, 2009: "Laymakers flip budget process" by Jed Layton (Utah Daily Chronicle) "Jowers also said both the House and the Senate have new leadership this session. David Clark, R-Santa Clara, is the new speaker of the House and Michael Waddoups, R-West, Jordan is the new president of the Senate. 'New leadership always causes a level of chaos,' Jowers said. 'Different styles, constituents and philosophies change the way people interact and work. There will be some adapting on Capitol Hill for the first little while.'”

January 28, 2009: "Admins hope Legislature will follow Huntsman's plan" by Jed Layton (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, a Republican and director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is a supporter of Huntsman’s plan to use the fund. 'I understand some legislators’ concerns to be fiscally responsible,' he said. 'But to not use the fund is allowing ideology (to) supersede logic.'"

January 27, 2009: "Shurtleff spent $730,000 on re-election bid" by Chris Rizo (LegalNewsline.com) "'Mark Shurtleff is a popular politician and most people approve of his job,' Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, told Legal Newsline in a pre-election."

January 26, 2009: "Miller to lead ethics commission" by Jed Layton (Utah Daily Chronicle) "Larry Miller will lead a state ethics commission along with Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. announced Thursday."

January 23, 2009: "Hinckley panelists predict reform and gay rights to take backseat" by Alex Cragun (Daily Utah Chronicle) "In a special forum Thursday at the Hinckley Institute of Politics, local newspaper reporters said Utah can expect more budget cuts to go through the Utah Legislature this session, while ethics, health care reform, liquor laws and gay rights take the backseat.
The Hinckley Institute hosted the forum with Doug Fabrizio’s political-broadcasting “RadioWest” show on KUER and invited two reporters from The Salt Lake Tribune and one reporter from the Deseret News to discuss what people could expect from the 2009 Utah legislative session."

January 23, 2009: "Huntsman appoints ethics reform panel" by Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) "Huntsman and University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics director Kirk Jowers, who will 'drive' the commission's work, both said one area where Utah clearly lags behind other states is campaign finances.  'We have the most lax laws in the nation,' said Jowers, adding Utah allows any amount of money into campaigns from any source.  Hinting that Utah may be behind the times, Jowers said that maybe 'we missed a reform passed 40 years ago' in another state."

January 23, 2009: "Gov Launches Commission on Strengthening Democracy, Ethics" by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, will be the commission's vice chairman. 'We have missed so many reforms on some of these areas that we might be able to just learn from all the mistakes of these other states and just put in a really top flight-level model, you know, [of] democratic governance,' Jowers says."

January 23, 2009: "Names in the Game" Associated Press (International Herald Tribune) "'The people have to have a faith in all aspects of our government. They have to be engaged. They have to understand why decisions are made,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at
the University of Utah and the commission's co-chairman."

January 23, 2009: "Huntsman tabs Jazz owner for ethics panel" by Brock Vergakis (The Associated Press) "Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, will serve as the commission's
co-chairman. He said polls repeatedly show that the public wants its government to enact meaningful reforms and it is time that Utah takes..."

January 22, 2009: "Utah Legislative preview" with Doug Fabrizio (KUER) RadioWest broadcast live from the HInckley Institute of Politics. Kirk Jowers joins the panel to preview the upcoming legislative session. It will be tougher going this year for Utah's lawmakers than in years past. A faltering economy will mean difficult decisions as they try and balance the budget. We'll talk about the players, the relationships and of course, the issues at play this year. 

January 22, 2009: "Governor organizes government ethics commission" by John Daley (KSL Ch 5) "'We have 50 other states and the District of Columbia that have been making reforms, and the federal government. And we can see what has worked what has not worked, what can be applicable to our state,' said Kirk Jowers, vice chair of the new commission."

January 22, 2009: "Legislators Meet with LDS Leaders on State Liquor Laws" by Sandy Reisgraf (KSTU Fox 13) "The question is not whether your talking to too many, but too few of these constituents; are some people being excluded from the conversation who have just right to comment as others, and that to me the more important question." stated Kirk Jowers, of the Hinckley Institute of Politics regarding state representatives meeting with LDS church leaders to discuss state liquor laws.

January 22, 2009: "Governor Wants Utahns Engaged in Democracy" by Fields Moseley (KUTV News) "Ethics reform and campaign finance can be touchy subjects with legislators.  Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley institute of Politics thinks those affect how people view government. 'We basically have one of the two or three laxest campaign finance laws in the country,' said Jowers."

January 21, 2009: "Hinckley interns brave inauguration crowds in DC" by Michael McFall (Daily Utah Chronicle) "U student interns joined hundreds of thousands of Americans in celebrating the inauguration of Barack Obama, the 44th president, but some watched and listened in different venues than they had originally planned. In Washington, D.C., interns with the Hinckley Institute of Politics had the chance to be among those packed into hotels, buses, sidewalks and streets to see the inauguration of the country’s first black president."

January 21, 2009: "Students celebrate at Kingsbury" by Isabella Bravo (Daily Uath Chronicle) "The broadcast was followed by a panel discussion with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers and political science professor Tim Chambliss, moderated by Doug Fabrizio of KUER’s RadioWest. Jowers said Obama has a 76 percent approval rating, but this might not last forever. 'President Bush had a 91 percent approval rating at one point,' Jowers said. 'The party’s over. That’s what happens to those 80 percent approval ratings. I’m hoping Obama will take on these challenges.'”

January 21, 2009: "Larry H. Miller to co-chair ethics commission" (KSL) Kirk Jowers, who directs the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, will help lead the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Democracy.

January 21, 2009: "Inaugural impressions from the University of Utah" (Blog) Past Hinckley Institute of Politics interns travel to Washington, D.C. to attend the Inaugural Ceremony.

January 21, 2009: "2,000 watch big event at U" by Elaine Jarvik (Deseret News) Over 2,000 people turned out to watch President Obama's Inauguration at the Hinckley sponsored Kingsbury Hall event.

January 20, 2009: "Change requires participation" by Alan Monsen (Daily Utah Chronicle) "There are many ways to get involved, such as the Hinckley Institute of Politics, which offers opportunities to influence the nation and world and make an impact. The recent Rock the Vote campaign registered over 3,000 students, some who had never voted before."

January 20, 2009: "Barack Obama's Inauguration - Utah Reacts" with Doug Fabrizio (KUER) Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics said, "President Obama is correct, we need to move forward..." during the post inauguration panel at Kingsbury Hall. Click here to listen.

January 19, 2009: "Welcome back, guv, we're kind of proud" by Rebecca Walsh (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'Leavitt distinguished himself above and beyond all other Bush Cabinet secretaries,' says Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'He's seen by both the right and the left as someone who was innovative, straightforward. He's a superstar.'"

January 15, 2009: "Even in Republican Utah, Bush presidency rated lackluster, poor" by Thomas Burr (The Salt Lake Tribune) "The economic troubles, paired with the groundswell of support for incoming President Barack Obama, could account for the drop, says Kirk Jowers, head of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. 'Part of this lower approval rating is the natural evolution of our presidents,' Jowers says. "We elect them, we love them, as we do with Obama right now. Then they go through highs and lows, but typically [at the end of the cycle] we haven't liked our presidents much. We're tired of them and ready for the next new thing.'"

January 15, 2009: "Campus to broadcast Obama inauguration" by Jed Layton (The Daily Utah Chronicle) "Following the coverage there will be a panel discussion featuring Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, and Tim Chambless,  an assistant professor of political science, at 11 a.m. The discussion will center on how the transition of power between presidents has been able to remain peaceful."

January 15, 2009: "Hot ticket: Eagles will land in Sandy" (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'A Peaceful Transition of Power: Barack Obama Becomes the 44th President of the United States,' with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers and other political experts; Kingsbury Hall."

January 13, 2009: "Times' Friedman to speak at UMNH" by Alex Cragun (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute, said Friedman is a highly respected commentator and an innovator in eco-economics.'We want the students to meet and hear Friedman to challenge some of their opinions,' Jowers said."

January 12, 2009: "Two Free Inauguration Events" by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW) "The venue will air live coverage from the inauguration, which will be followed by a panel discussion led by Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk ..."

January 12, 2009: "Jowers picked to lead state ethics commission" by Jed Layton (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, is alarmed by the results of the 2008 election. Not that he is unhappy with any of the winning candidates. Instead, he is worried about the low voter turnout."

January 7, 2009: "Walsh: Shurtleff's timing on Utes suspect" by Rebecca Walsh (The Salt Lake Tribune) "Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers doesn't mind. 'Whether or not it's for political purposes, God bless him. The more pressure we can put on the BCS, the better. The BCS needs to fold.'"

January 6, 2009: "Governor Jon Huntsman" with Doug Fabrizio (KUER) Kirk Jowers, Lisa Riley Roche and Rebecca Walsh participated in a live RadioWest panel to discuss Governor Joh Huntsman's reelection and future administration. Click here to listen.

January 2, 2009: Utah Now, "Year in Review" with Doug Fabrizio (KUED) Looking back at 2008 to talk about the highlights and the characters who made '08 one of the most interesting years - in years.  X-96's Bill Allred, The Salt Lake Tribune's Rebecca Walsh, Richard Piatt from KSL and Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics were among the guests.

May 25, 2009 Utah Republican Challenges Sen. Bennett from the Outside By Michael Teitelbaum, (CQ Politics) Chaffetz’ success may have emboldened Shurtleff “to take advantage of the anti-Washington feeling” by entering the Senate race, said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

May 24, 2009 Plenty of qualified prospects for Herbert's lieutenant governor By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb (Deseret News)Others mentioned are Sen. John Valentine, not likely because he's from Utah County; Rep. Rhonda Menlove from northern Utah; and Kirk Jowers at the U.'s Hinckley Institute.

May 22, 2009 Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers was a guest of UTAH NOW with Doug Fabrezio discussing Utah Governor Jon Huntsman's stepping down to become Ambassador to China.

May 21, 2009 Mark Shurtleff says he's ready to take on Sen. Bennett by Joe Pyrah (Daily Herald) "He's not Chris Cannon," he said of Bennett. "He's not." That's true, said Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. "Cannon had endured a series of difficult races," Jowers said of the former representative being repeatedly challenged and "generally disliked."

May 20, 2009 Herbert is hunting for new No. 2 By Lisa Riley Roche and Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) Other potential election rivals — and possible lieutenant governor picks — include Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce head Lane Beattie and University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers.

May 20th, 2009 Shurtleff enters race for Bennett's Senate seat By Richard Piatt (KSL News) "I'm not sure it will pay off. Shurtleff has his own background, his own baggage on conservative issues, so he's not the empty vessel they can put their hopes and dreams into," said Kirk Jowers, executive director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics.

May 19, 2009 Governor's Race May Include Salt Lake County Leadersby Jeff Robinson (KCPW) interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about his plans to run for Governor or accept a Lieutenant Governor invitation.

May 19, 2009 KUTV Channel 2’s Rod Decker interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about his plans to run for Governor or accept a Lieutenant Governor invitation.

May 19, 2009 KSL Channel 5’s Rich Piatt interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about his plans to run for Governor or accept a Lieutenant Governor invitation.

May 19, 2009 Before China, Huntsman was inching toward '12 run By Robert Gehrke (The Salt Lake Tribune) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, said 2012 would have been "almost impossible" for Huntsman to win -- going against an incumbent president who Huntsman had supported on the federal stimulus.

May 19, 2009 Who Will Run in 2010 Special Election? by Jeff Robinson (KCPW) With Governor Jon Huntsman departing to become Ambassador to China, pending his confirmation by the U.S. Senate, the field is now wide open to contenders who want his job in the November 2010 special election.  Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers, among others, is discussed.

May 18, 2009 Field of potential candidates taking shape for 2010 election
The Salt Lake Tribune reports other possible leading Republican candidates include: Fred Lampropoulos, a 2004 hopeful, Utah House Speaker Dave Clark, State Senator John Valentine (who has already formed a campaign organization), Salt Lake Chamber President Lane Beattie, Zions Bank President Scott Anderson, Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

May 18, 2009 Candidates For Utah Gov. Speed Up Campaigns For 2010 by Nicole Hunter Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about Governor Jon Huntsman nomination to become Ambassador to China and the 2010 gubernatorial election.

May 18, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared live on KSL Radio's "The Doug Wright Show" to discuss the transition from Governor Huntsman to Herbert and the future of Utah politics.

May 18, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared on NPR Radio's "All Things Considered" with correspondent Howard Berkes to discuss the transition from Governor Huntsman's appointment as Chinese Ambassador.

May 18, 2009 The Next McCain? by Robert Gehrke (The Daily Beast) The China dispatch maybe be a short-term detour, but one with little downside. “2012 looked almost impossible for him, despite how well he’d been doing getting publicity,” says Kirk Jowers, a University of Utah political science professor and attorney who has worked with both the McCain and Romney camps.

May 17, 2009 Huntsman Out - Herbert In by Jennifer Napier-Pearce (KUER)
Political circles are still a-buzz with news that President Obama tapped Utah Governor Jon Huntsman to serve as U.S. Ambassador to China. Among the hotly-debated topics: What kind of a governor will Gary Herbert be? And what does Huntsman's exit mean for Utah politics? KUER's Jennifer Napier-Pearce interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers.

May 17, 2009 Utah GOP governor is Obama's pick as China envoy KUTV Anchor Brian Mulahey interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers.

May 17, 2009 Names sell newspapers by Frank Pignanelli and Lavar Webb (Deseret News) Brett Tolman, Kirk Jowers, Aaron Osmond: They just really, really want to run for something.

May 17, 2009 Candidates stepping up to take Huntsman's place (KSL News)
The Deseret News reports Republican Sen. John Valentine of Orem has put together a campaign organization. He says he's waiting to see how Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert does at the helm before he officially throws his hat in for the 2010 special election. Other prospects include: Kirk Jowers, executive director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics

May 17, 2009 Race to replace Huntsman may draw broad field By Derek P. Jensen (The Salt Lake Tribune) Fred Lampropoulos, who ran a well-financed 2004 bid, could join the mix as could Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce President Lane Beattie, Zions Bank President Scott Anderson or Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics.

May 17, 2009 Huntsman tapped: Obama's selection of China envoy sets off a political furor by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Other potential candidates being mentioned include Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce President Lane
Beattie; Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics; Scott Anderson, head of Zions Bank; and Utah's only Democratic member of Congress, Rep. Jim Matheson.

May 16, 2009 Huntsman accepts post as ambassador to China by Andrew Adams (KSL Radio) Hinckley Institute director Kirk Jowers is interviewed regarding Huntsman's post as ambassador to China.

May 15, 2009 KSL News Radio Interview regarding Governor Huntsman's appointment to ambassador to China

May 16, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, was interviewed by Brian Mulahey of KUTV 2 News regarding the implications of Governor Huntsman's appointment to be China's new ambassador.

May 16, 2009: "Gov. Huntsman Accepts Obama's Call to Serve as U.S. Ambassador to China" by Scott McCain (Fox 13 News): Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics was interviewed regarding this development.

May 16, 2009 Huntsman accepts post as ambassador to China by Keith McCord (KSL News) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah said, "It's great for the state of Utah. We can't keep our governors on the farm. We've lost our last two to administrations."

May 14, 2009 New Utah Campaign Finance Law Raises Questions by John McArdle (Roll Call) “There is no question there are several state legislators who are eyeing” federal races, said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics. “We have two of the longest-serving, oldest Senators. We have a fourth [Congressional] seat we will receive [in the next reapportionment]. So I think there was certainly some feeling of, ‘Lets give ourselves maximum flexibility with these campaign funds.’” 

May 13, 2009 Kirk Jowers on Shurtleff, Bridgewater Candidacies by Jeff Robinson (KCPW News) KCPW's Jeff Robinson spoke with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers about the challengers Bennett will face at the 2010 State Republican Convention.

May 12, 2009 Shurtleff mistakenly 'tweets' campaign plans By Josh Loftin (Deseret News) "Shurtleff has postponed this announcement so many times, he's starting to look like Fred Thompson," said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. The actor-turned-politician kept putting off getting into the race for the 2008 GOP presidential nomination, and once Thompson did get in the race, he didn't stay long. Jowers said there's a danger of voters losing interest in Shurtleff's candidacy.

May 12, 2009 Bridgewater to challenge Bennett for Senate seat by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said all incumbents are vulnerable right now, not just Bennett. He said the strategy behind a Bridgewater candidacy could be that "someone new and fresh might have the best chance to take advantage of this anti-Washington feeling."

May 7, 2009 Romney supporter pleased by FEC vote by United Press International "Campaign finance enforcement should err on the side of citizen participation and clarity, as it did in this instance," said attorney Kirk Jowers.

May 6, 2009 Obama's campaign manager fears Jon Huntsman the most in 2012 by Chris Vanocur (KUTV News) Kirk Jowers of the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics says, "Huntsman has positioned himself in a great place right now because he is the only presidential candidate really running in the middle right now.". . . And Jowers - who has advised three republican presidential candidates - says Huntsman has now, "...become a top five candidate for 2012."

May 6, 2009 SLC interns gain D.C. perspective By Jennifer Bischoff (Salt Lake Tribune) She found her internship through the Hinckley Institute of Politics, an organization at the University of Utah, which provides opportunities for students to work in different areas of government.

May 5, 2009 FEC closes probe of Romney campaign, Utah developer by Thomas Burr (Salt Lake Tribune) Gardner's attorney in the matter, Kirk Jowers, also the head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, issued a statement on behalf of Gardner saying he is gratified that the FEC dismissed the case.

May 5, 2009 Lieutenant governor won't enforce contributions law by Sheena Mcfarland (Salt Lake Tribune) In Utah, supporters of the state's lax campaign finance laws often argue the laws are lenient because everything is disclosed for voters to see, said Kirk Jowers, a campaign finance attorney. However, that only works if candidates accurately report contributions. “If voters cannot get timely contributor information, it eliminates their ability to fairly see influence on that legislator that may or may not make a difference to them,” said Jowers, who also is the director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

May 5, 2009 Governor Huntsman causing national, local stir By Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said Huntsman "is getting the rewards of sticking his neck out on issues," including support for gay rights and addressing climate change — in one of the nation's reddest and most conservative states.

May 5, 2009 U. student named Truman Scholar By Wendy Leonard (Deseret News) "Patrick is an incredibly gifted student who serves for all the right reasons," said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute. Jowers received the Truman scholarship as a U. student in 1990 and said Reimherr is deserving of the honor, due to his "tremendous work ethic, brilliant mind and absolute integrity."

April 29, 2009 Utahns prefer Romney to Huntsman in new poll By Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said most Utahns "have not yet focused on the fact that these two favorite sons are attempting to push the party in different directions." For now, he said, both are being judged mostly on their likability and ties to the state.

April 28, 2009: "Obama has slim support of Utahns after 100 days" by Bob Bernick Jr. and Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) "'Utahns, like the nation, are giving President Obama the benefit of the doubt,' said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'He's such a likable man in many ways that their concerns with some of the specific issues are not taking their toll on him yet.'"

April 28, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, was interviewed by KSL Radio's Scott Sieger regarding Senator Arlen Specter's switch from the Republican to Democratic Party.

April 23, 2009: "Governor: Commission Change Not Result of Lawmaker Pressure" by Jeff Robinson (KCPW) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is co-chairman of the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy. "Governor Huntsman added that campaign finance reform will be another major component the commission will study, noting that Utah is one of only three states that does not limit campaign contributions. Learn more about the commission at strengthendemocracy.org."

Apil 23, 2009: "Governor defends decision to drop legislative ethics from commission" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is co-chairman of the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy.

April 23, 2009: "Guv says pared-back commission is still worthwhile" by Robert Gehrke (The Salt Lake Tribune)Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is co-chairman of the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy.

April 23, 2009: "KUED Airs Hinckley Institute Forum Featuring Two University Presidents" (KUED 7) "On Sunday night, May 2 (the morning of Monday, May 3) at 12 a.m., KUED will air a previously taped Hinckley Institute of Politics Forum with University of Utah President Michael K. Young and Brigham Young University President Cecil O. Samuelson, discussing the future of higher education."

April 23, 2009: "Frog expert to speak at SLC Main Library" by Brian Maffly (Salt Lake Tribune) "The Nature of Things, which the museum stages in partnership with the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics, is completing its third year under a grant from the R. Harold Burton Foundation."

April 21, 2009: "New advocate position would oversee media" by Michael McFall and Jeremy Thompson (Daily Utah Chronicle) "However, Jayme Day, editor in chief of Social Dialogue, and Jonathan Spendlove, editor in chief of The Hinckley Journal of Politics—two publications that would be directly
affected by the proposal—said they know nothing about it."

April 20, 2009: "Governor's Commission Drops Legislative Ethics and Redistricting" by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW News) "Kirk Jowers, acting chairman of the commission and the director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, says legislative leaders made no secret of their feelings about the commission taking on the issues. 'I've heard directly and indirectly from various legislators that they were not happy...'"

April 20, 2009: "GOP may get more seats in Congress" by Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) "But with Democrats currently holding a 75-plus seat majority in the 435-member U.S. House of Representatives, it will take more than redistricting to get the GOP back in control of the body in 2012. 'Still, it is a first bright spot for (national) Republicans,' said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics.

April 18, 2009: "Dem chairman takes behind-the-scenes approach" by Jeremiah Stettler (The Salt Lake Tribune) "U. Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers says Clark's low-profile approach may have served the party well last year."

April 17, 2009: "Presidents discuss future of higher education" by Deborah Rafferty (Daily Utah Chronicle) "'We looked at what we can do today to help students in 10 years, 20 years and 30 years,' said U President Michael Young on Thursday at a Hinckley Institute of Politics forum about the changes and problems facing the future of higher education."

April 16, 2009: "University Presidents Say Funding Sources Will Change in the Future" by Faroe Robinson (KCPW) "At a forum on higher education at the Hinckley Institute of Politics this morning, he said this could lead to major changes. 'Will these different revenue streams change the way in which we behave?'"

April 16, 2009: "U., Y. chiefs discuss future of higher ed" by Wendy Leonard (Deseret News) "Brigham Young University President Cecil O. Samuelson and University of Utah President Michael K. Young both expressed optimism during the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics Forum on Thursday, but they made clear their thoughts were, as Samuelson said, "only speculation."

April 16, 2009: "Guv wants ethics study narrowed" by Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) "'I serve (on the commission) at the pleasure of the governor,' said commission co-chairman Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'We had a very broad mandate' before Huntsman asked for the narrowing of the study."

April 14, 2009: "New presidential pet becomes part of Washington politics" by Richard Piatt (KSL 5 News) "'It's a way for PETA to get its message across, for shelter dogs to get theirs, even the cat lovers. You know, why didn't they get a cat? So it just goes on and on,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah."

April 13, 2009: "Monday Buzz" by LaVarr Webb (Utah Policy Daily) "BYU Pres. Cecil Samuelson and U. of U. Pres. Michael Young talking about the future of higher education, at the Hinckley Institute."

April 9, 2009: "New state law could open backdoor for federal candidates" by Robert Gehrke (Salt Lake Tribune) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics and an attorney who practices campaign-finance law. "Candidates have an absolute right to use their personal funds for their own political campaign activity," Jowers said."

April 07, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics intern, Patrick Reimherr was selected as 2009 Truman Scholar.

April 04, 2009: "Walsh: Legislature enacted ethics reform: Is it enough?" by Rebecca Walsh (Salt Lake Tribune) "Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers believes lawmakers were forced to act on ethics reform with the commission waiting in the wings. 'It did force them to make some first steps,' he says."

April 04, 2009: "Did Romney's religion cost him the presidency?" by Micheale De Groote (Mormon Times) "Kirk Jowers has an answer for whether Mitt
Romney's presidential bid was lost because of Mormonism: 'I can unequivocally tell you that the answer is 'yes, no and maybe.'"

April 02, 2009: "U coach, director take on the Wheelin’ Jazz" by Andreas Rivera (Daily Utah Chronicle) "U Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers, won the game by three points, 83-80, when they bombarded their opponents and audience members with streams of Silly String."

April 02, 2009: "Gore and LDS leaders meet" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) "Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said the visit validates 'the church's significant efforts to construct environmentally friendly buildings,' including part of the massive downtown City Creek development that is under way."

April 02, 2009: "Former Colombian president addresses drug war, economy" by Isabella Bravo (Daily Utah Chronicle) "The U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics brought Gaviria to the U to speak Thursday on the role of international leaders in shaping economic and public policy."

April 02, 2009: "Al Gore and LDS President Meet Privately" by Max Roth (KSTU Fox 13) "'I think its a real validation for the LDS church. They've made real efforts to be progressive on the environment and this helps their cause as they’ve kind of stepped out to do it,' said Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics."

March 28, 2009: "Utahns' opinions are sought on ethics reform" by Kristy Kuhn (Deseret News) Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers,

March 27, 2009: "China soon to ival US, Times editor says" by Trent Lowe (Daily Utah Chronicle) Kahn spoke Thursday at the U Hinckley Institute of Politics about China’s up-and-coming status as a superpower of the world.

March 26, 2009: "U. student leader named Truman scholar" by Brian Maffly (The Salt Lake Tribune) "This is both an extraordinary honor and a remarkable tribute to the accomplishments of Patrick Reimherr and to the [U.'s] Hinckley Institute of Politics."

March 26, 2009: "University of Utah Student Awarded Truman Scholarship" (KUTV News) For the third consecutive year, past Hinckley Institute of Politics interns have been Truman Scholars. This years Truman Scholarship recipient is Patrick Reihmerr.

March 26, 2009: "Reimherr named as Truman scholar" by Isabella Bravo (Daily Utah Chronicle) “'The Truman Scholarship is the most competitive undergraduate scholarship available in this very specialized field of public service,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics and a [1990] Truman scholar."

March 26, 2009: "Harry S. Truman Scholarship Awarded to U of U Student" (U of U News Center) "'This is both an extraordinary honor and a remarkable tribute to the accomplishments of Patrick Reimherr and to the Hinckley Institute of Politics,' said University of Utah President Michael K. Young."

March 25, 2009: "A Few Questions for Jayne Nelson" (News for Faculty & Staff, U of U) Assitant Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, Jayne Nelson, interviewed for campus faculty and staff news.

March 20, 2009: "Let the 'Mentioning' Begin" by Lavarr Webb and Associates (Utah Policy Daily) "So a group of political junkies were sitting around at lunch talking about who has been mentioned by the Great Mentioners  as 2012 gubernatorial prospects. Here's the list:  Republicans: Gary Herbert, Mark Shurtleff, Lane Beattie, John Valentine, David Clark, Kirk Jowers, Kevin Garn, Brent Brown, Merrill Cook, Natalie Gochnour, Chris Cannon, Jason Chaffetz.  Democrat: Jim Matheson. The list will grow, and watch for some surprise candidates."

March 12, 2009: "Walsh: Lowbrow session at Capitol" by Rebecca Walsh (Salt Lake Tribune) "You can take his word for it. House Republicans did -- in droves, along with a couple weak-willed Democrats. They chided Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers on Wednesday for daring to commission a speech from liberal New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman, who accepts global warming and advocates a carbon tax."

March 12, 2009: "2009 Legislature makes significant headway in ethics reform" by John Daley (KSL News) "According to the Hinckley Institute of Politics, 33 other states make lobbyists disclose the how much money they're paid, 43 other states select statewide nominees through a primary election, and 36 other states limit campaign contributions and require contributors to list their occupation or employers."

March 11, 2009: "Friedman urges green revolution" by Rochelle McConkie (Daily Utah Chronicle) The renowned New York Times columnist and bestselling author urged a packed audience at Abravanel Hall on Tuesday night to start a “green revolution” using energy technology. . . . 'Pragmatism is going to have to supersede partisanship very quickly,' said Jowers, a Republican. 'On the environment and so many other issues, we are reaching a state of emergency, but neither political party seems willing to see it that way.' The Hinckley Institute honored Friedman as a Hinckley fellow for his relationship with the U."

March 11, 2009: "Hot, flat and smug" by Glen Warchol (Salt Lake Tribune) Hinckley Institute of Politics fellow, Thomas Friedman, spoke to a sold out crowd at Abravenal Hall regarding the topics found in his new book, Hot, Flat and Crowded.

March 11, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, interviewed with Chris Vanocur from ABC news regarding currently debated ethics bills.

March 11, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, interviewed with Rich Piatt from KSL news regarding the legislative wrap-up`.

March 11, 2009: "Friedman: Government must stimulate green revolution" by Brandon Loomis (Salt Lake Tribune) Hinckley Institute of Politics fellow, Thomas Friedman, spoke to a sold out crowd at Abravenal Hall regarding the topics found in his new book, Hot, Flat and Crowded.

March 11, 2009: "Friedman pushes for greener America" by Wendy Leonard (Deseret News) "The Utah Museum of Natural History presented the lecture in cooperation with the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the U."

March 9, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared on KSL Radio with reporter Becky Bruce from KSL radio regarding the Friedman lecture and related events.

March 9, 2009: "Thomas Friedman to speak at Abravanel Hall Tuesday" (KSL News) Friedman is reportedly a huge "get" for the lecture series. Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics Kirk Jowers tells KSL he accepts one speaking engagement for about every 20 requests he receives. He's one of the most sought after speakers in the world," Jowers added.

March 7, 2009: "Walsh: Is the U's keynote worth $75,000?" by Rebecca Walsh (Salt Lake Tribune) "'When you have a speaker that generates this amount of press and public interest, it helps shed light on everything else you're doing,' says Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers. 'It's the trickledown effect.'"

March 5, 2009: "Commission seeks public comment on increasing voter turnout" (Deseret News) "The commission, led by the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers, is looking at legislative ethics, campaign finance laws, redistricting, lobbying regulations and how elections are conducted."

March 4, 2009: "Students offer bribes to Legislature in protest" by Blair Dee Hodges (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U Hinckley Institute of Politics, said ethics reform has recently come to the forefront of Utah politics. Jowers, who was appointed by Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. to head the Governor’s Commission on Strengthening Utah’s Democracy."

February 23, 2009: "Is Buttars' speech public, or private?" by Aaron Falk (Deseret News) "The controversy raises the question of whether a state legislator can ever truly speak as a private citizen. According to Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, the answer is no. 'You just can't sever the two,' he said. 'The practical effect, in this day and age, is that a public official is always speaking as a public official.' With the advent of the Internet, and particularly Web sites such as YouTube, elected officials must be ever-cautious of what they say, Jowers said."

February 20, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared live on KSL Radio with reporter Sheryl Worsley regarding Senator Buttars being stripped of his chairmanship positions due to his controversial statements.

February 20, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared on KUER Radio with reporter Jennifer Alisi Napier-Pearce regarding the legislature's ethics bills.

February 19, 2009: "3 nominated for Truman Scholars" by Trent Lowe (Daily Utah Chronicle) "'This is a huge accomplishment for the candidates and for the university,' said Marko Mijic, a staff assistant at the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'It really shows what kind of students the U prepares.' . . . Jowers, who received the scholarship in 1990, said that the U has produced the past two Truman Scholars from Utah: Bryson Morgan in 2007 and Ingrid Price in 2008."

February 19, 2009: "Hutnsman invited to address South Carolina politicos: Huntsman trip seem as first test 2012 presidential waters" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said if Huntsman wants the opportunity to seriously consider entering the race, it makes sense for him to develop good will across the country.  'Republicans lack a clear leader at this point, and Gov. Huntsman finds himself one of a small pack of potential national leaders. So he is simply in a lot of demand right now,' Jowers said."

February 11, 2009: "Walsh: Guv, church play gay politics" by Rebecca Walsh (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'It immediately hurts him with core Republican voters. But long term, he has at least four years for this to play out, says Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'Gov. Huntsman feels the calling to be a leader of the rethinking and reshaping of the Republican Party. He's concerned about the future.'"

February 11, 2009: "Prop 8 donors pinpointed on website map" by Brent Hunsaker (ABC4 News) "Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah said, 'For the most part I think disclosure is good.  But there are negatives.  It’s not the silver bullet that some people think it is because it can be chilling and it can even make harassment quite easy.'” 

February 10, 2009: "Guv's civil-unions stand panned, praised" by Rosemary Winters and Robert Gehrke (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'He will come out on issues even though they are not popular with his party or even within his state, but so far people have respected him for that,' Jowers said, noting Huntsman's efforts..."

February 9, 2009: "Legislator compaigns get 81% fo funds from special interests" by Lee Davidson (Deseret News) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, says Utah campaign laws — which unlike most states have no donation limits, and allow direct donations by corporations — tend to discourage lawmakers from seeking donations from regular citizens because easy, big special-interest money can supply all they need."

February 9, 2009: "Lawmakers must regain voter trust" by Kirk Jowers and Matthew Sanderson (The Daily Utah Chronicle) Hinckley Institute of Politics' director Kirk Jowers co-authored an op-ed on voter turnout and trust in Utah.

February 6, 2009: "United States: Political Activity Law Bulletin - Disclosure Rules for Lobbyist Bundling" by Trevor Potter, Kirk L. Jowers, Joseph M. Birkenstock, Stacy Q. Cline, Matthew T. Sanderson and Kirsty B. Tsadick. Co-authored work by Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, Published in the Political Acitivty Law Bulletin, Winter 2009.

February 4, 2009: Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, appeared on UPR's Access Utah today with host Lee Austin and fellow guest Meg Holbrook regarding the Governor’s Commission on Strengthening Utah’s Democracy. 

February 2, 2009: This week on Utah NOW, the always-dicey question of ethics in the Utah Legislature.  This week Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers and Ken Verodia join host Doug Fabrezio to talk about the efforts to reform the rules of conduct on Utah's Capitol Hill.

February 2, 2009: "Sparking voter turnout" by Aaron Zundel (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Headed by Utah Jazz owner Larry Miller, and co-chaired by the U’s own Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics the 16–member commission hopes to investigate those perceptions, primarily by focusing on ethics reform.

February 2009: "Campus All-Stars - Achievements of U of U Faculty, Staff, Students, and More" (U of U Alumni Association) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, has been named by Gov. Jon Huntsman to head an independent government ethics commission... Jowers says he hopes the commission will make recommendations in areas such as campaign finance laws, lobbying rules, and party nomination systems, among many others. The commission will not make any recommendations until after lawmakers adjourn in early March."

January 30, 2009: "Ethics Reform" with Doug Fabrizio (KUED Utah Now) This week on Utah NOW, the always-dicey question of ethics in the Utah Legislature.  This week Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers and Ken Verodia join host Doug Fabrezio to talk about the efforts to reform the rules of conduct on Utah's Capitol Hill.

January 29, 2009: "Utah wants ethics reform" (Deseret News) "According to Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah and co-chairman of the newly empaneled Governor's Commission on strengthening Utah's Democracy, Utah has some of the most lax campaign finance laws in the nation. That's hardly a proud distinction. Utah's laws should be on par with the rest of the nation, if not stricter."

January 29, 2009: "Huntsman addresses budget cuts" by Jed Layton (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, said Utah lawmakers would be smart to use bonds as a way to obtain cash revenue and limit budget cuts. Bonds are loans that states, cities and corporations can obtain to build roads and buildings. Jowers said Utah has an AAA bond rating, the highest possible, at a time when many other states have no borrowing credibility. Cash that would have previously been used to build economy-stimulating roads and buildings could then be put to softening budget cuts."

January 28, 2009: "Laymakers flip budget process" by Jed Layton (Utah Daily Chronicle) "Jowers also said both the House and the Senate have new leadership this session. David Clark, R-Santa Clara, is the new speaker of the House and Michael Waddoups, R-West, Jordan is the new president of the Senate. 'New leadership always causes a level of chaos,' Jowers said. 'Different styles, constituents and philosophies change the way people interact and work. There will be some adapting on Capitol Hill for the first little while.'”

January 28, 2009: "Admins hope Legislature will follow Huntsman's plan" by Jed Layton (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, a Republican and director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is a supporter of Huntsman’s plan to use the fund. 'I understand some legislators’ concerns to be fiscally responsible,' he said. 'But to not use the fund is allowing ideology (to) supersede logic.'"

January 27, 2009: "Shurtleff spent $730,000 on re-election bid" by Chris Rizo (LegalNewsline.com) "'Mark Shurtleff is a popular politician and most people approve of his job,' Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, told Legal Newsline in a pre-election."

January 26, 2009: "Miller to lead ethics commission" by Jed Layton (Utah Daily Chronicle) "Larry Miller will lead a state ethics commission along with Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. announced Thursday."

January 23, 2009: "Hinckley panelists predict reform and gay rights to take backseat" by Alex Cragun (Daily Utah Chronicle) "In a special forum Thursday at the Hinckley Institute of Politics, local newspaper reporters said Utah can expect more budget cuts to go through the Utah Legislature this session, while ethics, health care reform, liquor laws and gay rights take the backseat.
The Hinckley Institute hosted the forum with Doug Fabrizio’s political-broadcasting “RadioWest” show on KUER and invited two reporters from The Salt Lake Tribune and one reporter from the Deseret News to discuss what people could expect from the 2009 Utah legislative session."

January 23, 2009: "Huntsman appoints ethics reform panel" by Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) "Huntsman and University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics director Kirk Jowers, who will 'drive' the commission's work, both said one area where Utah clearly lags behind other states is campaign finances.  'We have the most lax laws in the nation,' said Jowers, adding Utah allows any amount of money into campaigns from any source.  Hinting that Utah may be behind the times, Jowers said that maybe 'we missed a reform passed 40 years ago' in another state."

January 23, 2009: "Gov Launches Commission on Strengthening Democracy, Ethics" by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, will be the commission's vice chairman. 'We have missed so many reforms on some of these areas that we might be able to just learn from all the mistakes of these other states and just put in a really top flight-level model, you know, [of] democratic governance,' Jowers says."

January 23, 2009: "Names in the Game" Associated Press (International Herald Tribune) "'The people have to have a faith in all aspects of our government. They have to be engaged. They have to understand why decisions are made,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at
the University of Utah and the commission's co-chairman."

January 23, 2009: "Huntsman tabs Jazz owner for ethics panel" by Brock Vergakis (The Associated Press) "Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, will serve as the commission's
co-chairman. He said polls repeatedly show that the public wants its government to enact meaningful reforms and it is time that Utah takes..."

January 22, 2009: "Utah Legislative preview" with Doug Fabrizio (KUER) RadioWest broadcast live from the HInckley Institute of Politics. Kirk Jowers joins the panel to preview the upcoming legislative session. It will be tougher going this year for Utah's lawmakers than in years past. A faltering economy will mean difficult decisions as they try and balance the budget. We'll talk about the players, the relationships and of course, the issues at play this year. 

January 22, 2009: "Governor organizes government ethics commission" by John Daley (KSL Ch 5) "'We have 50 other states and the District of Columbia that have been making reforms, and the federal government. And we can see what has worked what has not worked, what can be applicable to our state,' said Kirk Jowers, vice chair of the new commission."

January 22, 2009: "Legislators Meet with LDS Leaders on State Liquor Laws" by Sandy Reisgraf (KSTU Fox 13) "The question is not whether your talking to too many, but too few of these constituents; are some people being excluded from the conversation who have just right to comment as others, and that to me the more important question." stated Kirk Jowers, of the Hinckley Institute of Politics regarding state representatives meeting with LDS church leaders to discuss state liquor laws.

January 22, 2009: "Governor Wants Utahns Engaged in Democracy" by Fields Moseley (KUTV News) "Ethics reform and campaign finance can be touchy subjects with legislators.  Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley institute of Politics thinks those affect how people view government. 'We basically have one of the two or three laxest campaign finance laws in the country,' said Jowers."

January 21, 2009: "Hinckley interns brave inauguration crowds in DC" by Michael McFall (Daily Utah Chronicle) "U student interns joined hundreds of thousands of Americans in celebrating the inauguration of Barack Obama, the 44th president, but some watched and listened in different venues than they had originally planned. In Washington, D.C., interns with the Hinckley Institute of Politics had the chance to be among those packed into hotels, buses, sidewalks and streets to see the inauguration of the country’s first black president."

January 21, 2009: "Students celebrate at Kingsbury" by Isabella Bravo (Daily Uath Chronicle) "The broadcast was followed by a panel discussion with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers and political science professor Tim Chambliss, moderated by Doug Fabrizio of KUER’s RadioWest. Jowers said Obama has a 76 percent approval rating, but this might not last forever. 'President Bush had a 91 percent approval rating at one point,' Jowers said. 'The party’s over. That’s what happens to those 80 percent approval ratings. I’m hoping Obama will take on these challenges.'”

January 21, 2009: "Larry H. Miller to co-chair ethics commission" (KSL) Kirk Jowers, who directs the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, will help lead the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Democracy.

January 21, 2009: "Inaugural impressions from the University of Utah" (Blog) Past Hinckley Institute of Politics interns travel to Washington, D.C. to attend the Inaugural Ceremony.

January 21, 2009: "2,000 watch big event at U" by Elaine Jarvik (Deseret News) Over 2,000 people turned out to watch President Obama's Inauguration at the Hinckley sponsored Kingsbury Hall event.

January 20, 2009: "Change requires participation" by Alan Monsen (Daily Utah Chronicle) "There are many ways to get involved, such as the Hinckley Institute of Politics, which offers opportunities to influence the nation and world and make an impact. The recent Rock the Vote campaign registered over 3,000 students, some who had never voted before."

January 20, 2009: "Barack Obama's Inauguration - Utah Reacts" with Doug Fabrizio (KUER) Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics said, "President Obama is correct, we need to move forward..." during the post inauguration panel at Kingsbury Hall. Click here to listen.

January 19, 2009: "Welcome back, guv, we're kind of proud" by Rebecca Walsh (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'Leavitt distinguished himself above and beyond all other Bush Cabinet secretaries,' says Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'He's seen by both the right and the left as someone who was innovative, straightforward. He's a superstar.'"

January 15, 2009: "Even in Republican Utah, Bush presidency rated lackluster, poor" by Thomas Burr (The Salt Lake Tribune) "The economic troubles, paired with the groundswell of support for incoming President Barack Obama, could account for the drop, says Kirk Jowers, head of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. 'Part of this lower approval rating is the natural evolution of our presidents,' Jowers says. "We elect them, we love them, as we do with Obama right now. Then they go through highs and lows, but typically [at the end of the cycle] we haven't liked our presidents much. We're tired of them and ready for the next new thing.'"

January 15, 2009: "Campus to broadcast Obama inauguration" by Jed Layton (The Daily Utah Chronicle) "Following the coverage there will be a panel discussion featuring Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, and Tim Chambless,  an assistant professor of political science, at 11 a.m. The discussion will center on how the transition of power between presidents has been able to remain peaceful."

January 15, 2009: "Hot ticket: Eagles will land in Sandy" (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'A Peaceful Transition of Power: Barack Obama Becomes the 44th President of the United States,' with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers and other political experts; Kingsbury Hall."

January 13, 2009: "Times' Friedman to speak at UMNH" by Alex Cragun (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute, said Friedman is a highly respected commentator and an innovator in eco-economics.'We want the students to meet and hear Friedman to challenge some of their opinions,' Jowers said."

January 12, 2009: "Two Free Inauguration Events" by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW) "The venue will air live coverage from the inauguration, which will be followed by a panel discussion led by Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk ..."

January 12, 2009: "Jowers picked to lead state ethics commission" by Jed Layton (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, is alarmed by the results of the 2008 election. Not that he is unhappy with any of the winning candidates. Instead, he is worried about the low voter turnout."

January 7, 2009: "Walsh: Shurtleff's timing on Utes suspect" by Rebecca Walsh (The Salt Lake Tribune) "Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers doesn't mind. 'Whether or not it's for political purposes, God bless him. The more pressure we can put on the BCS, the better. The BCS needs to fold.'"

January 6, 2009: "Governor Jon Huntsman" with Doug Fabrizio (KUER) Kirk Jowers, Lisa Riley Roche and Rebecca Walsh participated in a live RadioWest panel to discuss Governor Joh Huntsman's reelection and future administration. Click here to listen.

January 2, 2009: Utah Now, "Year in Review" with Doug Fabrizio (KUED) Looking back at 2008 to talk about the highlights and the characters who made '08 one of the most interesting years - in years.  X-96's Bill Allred, The Salt Lake Tribune's Rebecca Walsh, Richard Piatt from KSL and Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics were among the guests.

By Steve Gehrke

The Salt Lake Tribune

May 25, 2009 Utah Republican Challenges Sen. Bennett from the Outside By Michael Teitelbaum, (CQ Politics) Chaffetz’ success may have emboldened Shurtleff “to take advantage of the anti-Washington feeling” by entering the Senate race, said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

May 24, 2009 Plenty of qualified prospects for Herbert's lieutenant governor By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb (Deseret News)Others mentioned are Sen. John Valentine, not likely because he's from Utah County; Rep. Rhonda Menlove from northern Utah; and Kirk Jowers at the U.'s Hinckley Institute.

May 22, 2009 Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers was a guest of UTAH NOW with Doug Fabrezio discussing Utah Governor Jon Huntsman's stepping down to become Ambassador to China.

May 21, 2009 Mark Shurtleff says he's ready to take on Sen. Bennett by Joe Pyrah (Daily Herald) "He's not Chris Cannon," he said of Bennett. "He's not." That's true, said Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. "Cannon had endured a series of difficult races," Jowers said of the former representative being repeatedly challenged and "generally disliked."

May 20, 2009 Herbert is hunting for new No. 2 By Lisa Riley Roche and Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) Other potential election rivals — and possible lieutenant governor picks — include Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce head Lane Beattie and University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers.

May 20th, 2009 Shurtleff enters race for Bennett's Senate seat By Richard Piatt (KSL News) "I'm not sure it will pay off. Shurtleff has his own background, his own baggage on conservative issues, so he's not the empty vessel they can put their hopes and dreams into," said Kirk Jowers, executive director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics.

May 19, 2009 Governor's Race May Include Salt Lake County Leadersby Jeff Robinson (KCPW) interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about his plans to run for Governor or accept a Lieutenant Governor invitation.

May 19, 2009 KUTV Channel 2’s Rod Decker interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about his plans to run for Governor or accept a Lieutenant Governor invitation.

May 19, 2009 KSL Channel 5’s Rich Piatt interviewed Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about his plans to run for Governor or accept a Lieutenant Governor invitation.

May 19, 2009 Before China, Huntsman was inching toward '12 run By Robert Gehrke (The Salt Lake Tribune) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, said 2012 would have been "almost impossible" for Huntsman to win -- going against an incumbent president who Huntsman had supported on the federal stimulus.

May 19, 2009 Who Will Run in 2010 Special Election? by Jeff Robinson (KCPW) With Governor Jon Huntsman departing to become Ambassador to China, pending his confirmation by the U.S. Senate, the field is now wide open to contenders who want his job in the November 2010 special election.  Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers, among others, is discussed.

May 18, 2009 Field of potential candidates taking shape for 2010 election
The Salt Lake Tribune reports other possible leading Republican candidates include: Fred Lampropoulos, a 2004 hopeful, Utah House Speaker Dave Clark, State Senator John Valentine (who has already formed a campaign organization), Salt Lake Chamber President Lane Beattie, Zions Bank President Scott Anderson, Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

May 18, 2009 Candidates For Utah Gov. Speed Up Campaigns For 2010 by Nicole Hunter Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers is interviewed about Governor Jon Huntsman nomination to become Ambassador to China and the 2010 gubernatorial election.

May 18, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared live on KSL Radio's "The Doug Wright Show" to discuss the transition from Governor Huntsman to Herbert and the future of Utah politics.

May 18, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared on NPR Radio's "All Things Considered" with correspondent Howard Berkes to discuss the transition from Governor Huntsman's appointment as Chinese Ambassador.

May 18, 2009 The Next McCain? by Robert Gehrke (The Daily Beast) The China dispatch maybe be a short-term detour, but one with little downside. “2012 looked almost impossible for him, despite how well he’d been doing getting publicity,” says Kirk Jowers, a University of Utah political science professor and attorney who has worked with both the McCain and Romney camps.

May 17, 2009 Huntsman Out - Herbert In by Jennifer Napier-Pearce (KUER)
Political circles are still a-buzz with news that President Obama tapped Utah Governor Jon Huntsman to serve as U.S. Ambassador to China. Among the hotly-debated topics: What kind of a governor will Gary Herbert be? And what does Huntsman's exit mean for Utah politics? KUER's Jennifer Napier-Pearce interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers.

May 17, 2009 Utah GOP governor is Obama's pick as China envoy KUTV Anchor Brian Mulahey interviews Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers.

May 17, 2009 Names sell newspapers by Frank Pignanelli and Lavar Webb (Deseret News) Brett Tolman, Kirk Jowers, Aaron Osmond: They just really, really want to run for something.

May 17, 2009 Candidates stepping up to take Huntsman's place (KSL News)
The Deseret News reports Republican Sen. John Valentine of Orem has put together a campaign organization. He says he's waiting to see how Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert does at the helm before he officially throws his hat in for the 2010 special election. Other prospects include: Kirk Jowers, executive director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics

May 17, 2009 Race to replace Huntsman may draw broad field By Derek P. Jensen (The Salt Lake Tribune) Fred Lampropoulos, who ran a well-financed 2004 bid, could join the mix as could Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce President Lane Beattie, Zions Bank President Scott Anderson or Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics.

May 17, 2009 Huntsman tapped: Obama's selection of China envoy sets off a political furor by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Other potential candidates being mentioned include Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce President Lane
Beattie; Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics; Scott Anderson, head of Zions Bank; and Utah's only Democratic member of Congress, Rep. Jim Matheson.

May 16, 2009 Huntsman accepts post as ambassador to China by Andrew Adams (KSL Radio) Hinckley Institute director Kirk Jowers is interviewed regarding Huntsman's post as ambassador to China.

May 15, 2009 KSL News Radio Interview regarding Governor Huntsman's appointment to ambassador to China

May 16, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, was interviewed by Brian Mulahey of KUTV 2 News regarding the implications of Governor Huntsman's appointment to be China's new ambassador.

May 16, 2009: "Gov. Huntsman Accepts Obama's Call to Serve as U.S. Ambassador to China" by Scott McCain (Fox 13 News): Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics was interviewed regarding this development.

May 16, 2009 Huntsman accepts post as ambassador to China by Keith McCord (KSL News) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah said, "It's great for the state of Utah. We can't keep our governors on the farm. We've lost our last two to administrations."

May 14, 2009 New Utah Campaign Finance Law Raises Questions by John McArdle (Roll Call) “There is no question there are several state legislators who are eyeing” federal races, said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics. “We have two of the longest-serving, oldest Senators. We have a fourth [Congressional] seat we will receive [in the next reapportionment]. So I think there was certainly some feeling of, ‘Lets give ourselves maximum flexibility with these campaign funds.’” 

May 13, 2009 Kirk Jowers on Shurtleff, Bridgewater Candidacies by Jeff Robinson (KCPW News) KCPW's Jeff Robinson spoke with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers about the challengers Bennett will face at the 2010 State Republican Convention.

May 12, 2009 Shurtleff mistakenly 'tweets' campaign plans By Josh Loftin (Deseret News) "Shurtleff has postponed this announcement so many times, he's starting to look like Fred Thompson," said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. The actor-turned-politician kept putting off getting into the race for the 2008 GOP presidential nomination, and once Thompson did get in the race, he didn't stay long. Jowers said there's a danger of voters losing interest in Shurtleff's candidacy.

May 12, 2009 Bridgewater to challenge Bennett for Senate seat by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said all incumbents are vulnerable right now, not just Bennett. He said the strategy behind a Bridgewater candidacy could be that "someone new and fresh might have the best chance to take advantage of this anti-Washington feeling."

May 7, 2009 Romney supporter pleased by FEC vote by United Press International "Campaign finance enforcement should err on the side of citizen participation and clarity, as it did in this instance," said attorney Kirk Jowers.

May 6, 2009 Obama's campaign manager fears Jon Huntsman the most in 2012 by Chris Vanocur (KUTV News) Kirk Jowers of the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics says, "Huntsman has positioned himself in a great place right now because he is the only presidential candidate really running in the middle right now.". . . And Jowers - who has advised three republican presidential candidates - says Huntsman has now, "...become a top five candidate for 2012."

May 6, 2009 SLC interns gain D.C. perspective By Jennifer Bischoff (Salt Lake Tribune) She found her internship through the Hinckley Institute of Politics, an organization at the University of Utah, which provides opportunities for students to work in different areas of government.

May 5, 2009 FEC closes probe of Romney campaign, Utah developer by Thomas Burr (Salt Lake Tribune) Gardner's attorney in the matter, Kirk Jowers, also the head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, issued a statement on behalf of Gardner saying he is gratified that the FEC dismissed the case.

May 5, 2009 Lieutenant governor won't enforce contributions law by Sheena Mcfarland (Salt Lake Tribune) In Utah, supporters of the state's lax campaign finance laws often argue the laws are lenient because everything is disclosed for voters to see, said Kirk Jowers, a campaign finance attorney. However, that only works if candidates accurately report contributions. “If voters cannot get timely contributor information, it eliminates their ability to fairly see influence on that legislator that may or may not make a difference to them,” said Jowers, who also is the director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

May 5, 2009 Governor Huntsman causing national, local stir By Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said Huntsman "is getting the rewards of sticking his neck out on issues," including support for gay rights and addressing climate change — in one of the nation's reddest and most conservative states.

May 5, 2009 U. student named Truman Scholar By Wendy Leonard (Deseret News) "Patrick is an incredibly gifted student who serves for all the right reasons," said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute. Jowers received the Truman scholarship as a U. student in 1990 and said Reimherr is deserving of the honor, due to his "tremendous work ethic, brilliant mind and absolute integrity."

April 29, 2009 Utahns prefer Romney to Huntsman in new poll By Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said most Utahns "have not yet focused on the fact that these two favorite sons are attempting to push the party in different directions." For now, he said, both are being judged mostly on their likability and ties to the state.

April 28, 2009: "Obama has slim support of Utahns after 100 days" by Bob Bernick Jr. and Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) "'Utahns, like the nation, are giving President Obama the benefit of the doubt,' said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'He's such a likable man in many ways that their concerns with some of the specific issues are not taking their toll on him yet.'"

April 28, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, was interviewed by KSL Radio's Scott Sieger regarding Senator Arlen Specter's switch from the Republican to Democratic Party.

April 23, 2009: "Governor: Commission Change Not Result of Lawmaker Pressure" by Jeff Robinson (KCPW) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is co-chairman of the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy. "Governor Huntsman added that campaign finance reform will be another major component the commission will study, noting that Utah is one of only three states that does not limit campaign contributions. Learn more about the commission at strengthendemocracy.org."

Apil 23, 2009: "Governor defends decision to drop legislative ethics from commission" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is co-chairman of the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy.

April 23, 2009: "Guv says pared-back commission is still worthwhile" by Robert Gehrke (The Salt Lake Tribune)Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is co-chairman of the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy.

April 23, 2009: "KUED Airs Hinckley Institute Forum Featuring Two University Presidents" (KUED 7) "On Sunday night, May 2 (the morning of Monday, May 3) at 12 a.m., KUED will air a previously taped Hinckley Institute of Politics Forum with University of Utah President Michael K. Young and Brigham Young University President Cecil O. Samuelson, discussing the future of higher education."

April 23, 2009: "Frog expert to speak at SLC Main Library" by Brian Maffly (Salt Lake Tribune) "The Nature of Things, which the museum stages in partnership with the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics, is completing its third year under a grant from the R. Harold Burton Foundation."

April 21, 2009: "New advocate position would oversee media" by Michael McFall and Jeremy Thompson (Daily Utah Chronicle) "However, Jayme Day, editor in chief of Social Dialogue, and Jonathan Spendlove, editor in chief of The Hinckley Journal of Politics—two publications that would be directly
affected by the proposal—said they know nothing about it."

April 20, 2009: "Governor's Commission Drops Legislative Ethics and Redistricting" by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW News) "Kirk Jowers, acting chairman of the commission and the director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, says legislative leaders made no secret of their feelings about the commission taking on the issues. 'I've heard directly and indirectly from various legislators that they were not happy...'"

April 20, 2009: "GOP may get more seats in Congress" by Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) "But with Democrats currently holding a 75-plus seat majority in the 435-member U.S. House of Representatives, it will take more than redistricting to get the GOP back in control of the body in 2012. 'Still, it is a first bright spot for (national) Republicans,' said Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics.

April 18, 2009: "Dem chairman takes behind-the-scenes approach" by Jeremiah Stettler (The Salt Lake Tribune) "U. Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers says Clark's low-profile approach may have served the party well last year."

April 17, 2009: "Presidents discuss future of higher education" by Deborah Rafferty (Daily Utah Chronicle) "'We looked at what we can do today to help students in 10 years, 20 years and 30 years,' said U President Michael Young on Thursday at a Hinckley Institute of Politics forum about the changes and problems facing the future of higher education."

April 16, 2009: "University Presidents Say Funding Sources Will Change in the Future" by Faroe Robinson (KCPW) "At a forum on higher education at the Hinckley Institute of Politics this morning, he said this could lead to major changes. 'Will these different revenue streams change the way in which we behave?'"

April 16, 2009: "U., Y. chiefs discuss future of higher ed" by Wendy Leonard (Deseret News) "Brigham Young University President Cecil O. Samuelson and University of Utah President Michael K. Young both expressed optimism during the U.'s Hinckley Institute of Politics Forum on Thursday, but they made clear their thoughts were, as Samuelson said, "only speculation."

April 16, 2009: "Guv wants ethics study narrowed" by Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) "'I serve (on the commission) at the pleasure of the governor,' said commission co-chairman Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'We had a very broad mandate' before Huntsman asked for the narrowing of the study."

April 14, 2009: "New presidential pet becomes part of Washington politics" by Richard Piatt (KSL 5 News) "'It's a way for PETA to get its message across, for shelter dogs to get theirs, even the cat lovers. You know, why didn't they get a cat? So it just goes on and on,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah."

April 13, 2009: "Monday Buzz" by LaVarr Webb (Utah Policy Daily) "BYU Pres. Cecil Samuelson and U. of U. Pres. Michael Young talking about the future of higher education, at the Hinckley Institute."

April 9, 2009: "New state law could open backdoor for federal candidates" by Robert Gehrke (Salt Lake Tribune) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics and an attorney who practices campaign-finance law. "Candidates have an absolute right to use their personal funds for their own political campaign activity," Jowers said."

April 07, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics intern, Patrick Reimherr was selected as 2009 Truman Scholar.

April 04, 2009: "Walsh: Legislature enacted ethics reform: Is it enough?" by Rebecca Walsh (Salt Lake Tribune) "Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers believes lawmakers were forced to act on ethics reform with the commission waiting in the wings. 'It did force them to make some first steps,' he says."

April 04, 2009: "Did Romney's religion cost him the presidency?" by Micheale De Groote (Mormon Times) "Kirk Jowers has an answer for whether Mitt
Romney's presidential bid was lost because of Mormonism: 'I can unequivocally tell you that the answer is 'yes, no and maybe.'"

April 02, 2009: "U coach, director take on the Wheelin’ Jazz" by Andreas Rivera (Daily Utah Chronicle) "U Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers, won the game by three points, 83-80, when they bombarded their opponents and audience members with streams of Silly String."

April 02, 2009: "Gore and LDS leaders meet" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) "Kirk Jowers, head of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said the visit validates 'the church's significant efforts to construct environmentally friendly buildings,' including part of the massive downtown City Creek development that is under way."

April 02, 2009: "Former Colombian president addresses drug war, economy" by Isabella Bravo (Daily Utah Chronicle) "The U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics brought Gaviria to the U to speak Thursday on the role of international leaders in shaping economic and public policy."

April 02, 2009: "Al Gore and LDS President Meet Privately" by Max Roth (KSTU Fox 13) "'I think its a real validation for the LDS church. They've made real efforts to be progressive on the environment and this helps their cause as they’ve kind of stepped out to do it,' said Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics."

March 28, 2009: "Utahns' opinions are sought on ethics reform" by Kristy Kuhn (Deseret News) Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers,

March 27, 2009: "China soon to ival US, Times editor says" by Trent Lowe (Daily Utah Chronicle) Kahn spoke Thursday at the U Hinckley Institute of Politics about China’s up-and-coming status as a superpower of the world.

March 26, 2009: "U. student leader named Truman scholar" by Brian Maffly (The Salt Lake Tribune) "This is both an extraordinary honor and a remarkable tribute to the accomplishments of Patrick Reimherr and to the [U.'s] Hinckley Institute of Politics."

March 26, 2009: "University of Utah Student Awarded Truman Scholarship" (KUTV News) For the third consecutive year, past Hinckley Institute of Politics interns have been Truman Scholars. This years Truman Scholarship recipient is Patrick Reihmerr.

March 26, 2009: "Reimherr named as Truman scholar" by Isabella Bravo (Daily Utah Chronicle) “'The Truman Scholarship is the most competitive undergraduate scholarship available in this very specialized field of public service,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics and a [1990] Truman scholar."

March 26, 2009: "Harry S. Truman Scholarship Awarded to U of U Student" (U of U News Center) "'This is both an extraordinary honor and a remarkable tribute to the accomplishments of Patrick Reimherr and to the Hinckley Institute of Politics,' said University of Utah President Michael K. Young."

March 25, 2009: "A Few Questions for Jayne Nelson" (News for Faculty & Staff, U of U) Assitant Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, Jayne Nelson, interviewed for campus faculty and staff news.

March 20, 2009: "Let the 'Mentioning' Begin" by Lavarr Webb and Associates (Utah Policy Daily) "So a group of political junkies were sitting around at lunch talking about who has been mentioned by the Great Mentioners  as 2012 gubernatorial prospects. Here's the list:  Republicans: Gary Herbert, Mark Shurtleff, Lane Beattie, John Valentine, David Clark, Kirk Jowers, Kevin Garn, Brent Brown, Merrill Cook, Natalie Gochnour, Chris Cannon, Jason Chaffetz.  Democrat: Jim Matheson. The list will grow, and watch for some surprise candidates."

March 12, 2009: "Walsh: Lowbrow session at Capitol" by Rebecca Walsh (Salt Lake Tribune) "You can take his word for it. House Republicans did -- in droves, along with a couple weak-willed Democrats. They chided Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers on Wednesday for daring to commission a speech from liberal New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman, who accepts global warming and advocates a carbon tax."

March 12, 2009: "2009 Legislature makes significant headway in ethics reform" by John Daley (KSL News) "According to the Hinckley Institute of Politics, 33 other states make lobbyists disclose the how much money they're paid, 43 other states select statewide nominees through a primary election, and 36 other states limit campaign contributions and require contributors to list their occupation or employers."

March 11, 2009: "Friedman urges green revolution" by Rochelle McConkie (Daily Utah Chronicle) The renowned New York Times columnist and bestselling author urged a packed audience at Abravanel Hall on Tuesday night to start a “green revolution” using energy technology. . . . 'Pragmatism is going to have to supersede partisanship very quickly,' said Jowers, a Republican. 'On the environment and so many other issues, we are reaching a state of emergency, but neither political party seems willing to see it that way.' The Hinckley Institute honored Friedman as a Hinckley fellow for his relationship with the U."

March 11, 2009: "Hot, flat and smug" by Glen Warchol (Salt Lake Tribune) Hinckley Institute of Politics fellow, Thomas Friedman, spoke to a sold out crowd at Abravenal Hall regarding the topics found in his new book, Hot, Flat and Crowded.

March 11, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, interviewed with Chris Vanocur from ABC news regarding currently debated ethics bills.

March 11, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics director, Kirk Jowers, interviewed with Rich Piatt from KSL news regarding the legislative wrap-up`.

March 11, 2009: "Friedman: Government must stimulate green revolution" by Brandon Loomis (Salt Lake Tribune) Hinckley Institute of Politics fellow, Thomas Friedman, spoke to a sold out crowd at Abravenal Hall regarding the topics found in his new book, Hot, Flat and Crowded.

March 11, 2009: "Friedman pushes for greener America" by Wendy Leonard (Deseret News) "The Utah Museum of Natural History presented the lecture in cooperation with the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the U."

March 9, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared on KSL Radio with reporter Becky Bruce from KSL radio regarding the Friedman lecture and related events.

March 9, 2009: "Thomas Friedman to speak at Abravanel Hall Tuesday" (KSL News) Friedman is reportedly a huge "get" for the lecture series. Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics Kirk Jowers tells KSL he accepts one speaking engagement for about every 20 requests he receives. He's one of the most sought after speakers in the world," Jowers added.

March 7, 2009: "Walsh: Is the U's keynote worth $75,000?" by Rebecca Walsh (Salt Lake Tribune) "'When you have a speaker that generates this amount of press and public interest, it helps shed light on everything else you're doing,' says Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers. 'It's the trickledown effect.'"

March 5, 2009: "Commission seeks public comment on increasing voter turnout" (Deseret News) "The commission, led by the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers, is looking at legislative ethics, campaign finance laws, redistricting, lobbying regulations and how elections are conducted."

March 4, 2009: "Students offer bribes to Legislature in protest" by Blair Dee Hodges (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U Hinckley Institute of Politics, said ethics reform has recently come to the forefront of Utah politics. Jowers, who was appointed by Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. to head the Governor’s Commission on Strengthening Utah’s Democracy."

February 23, 2009: "Is Buttars' speech public, or private?" by Aaron Falk (Deseret News) "The controversy raises the question of whether a state legislator can ever truly speak as a private citizen. According to Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, the answer is no. 'You just can't sever the two,' he said. 'The practical effect, in this day and age, is that a public official is always speaking as a public official.' With the advent of the Internet, and particularly Web sites such as YouTube, elected officials must be ever-cautious of what they say, Jowers said."

February 20, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared live on KSL Radio with reporter Sheryl Worsley regarding Senator Buttars being stripped of his chairmanship positions due to his controversial statements.

February 20, 2009: Hinckley Institute of Politics Director, Kirk Jowers, appeared on KUER Radio with reporter Jennifer Alisi Napier-Pearce regarding the legislature's ethics bills.

February 19, 2009: "3 nominated for Truman Scholars" by Trent Lowe (Daily Utah Chronicle) "'This is a huge accomplishment for the candidates and for the university,' said Marko Mijic, a staff assistant at the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'It really shows what kind of students the U prepares.' . . . Jowers, who received the scholarship in 1990, said that the U has produced the past two Truman Scholars from Utah: Bryson Morgan in 2007 and Ingrid Price in 2008."

February 19, 2009: "Hutnsman invited to address South Carolina politicos: Huntsman trip seem as first test 2012 presidential waters" by Lisa Riley Roche (Deseret News) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, said if Huntsman wants the opportunity to seriously consider entering the race, it makes sense for him to develop good will across the country.  'Republicans lack a clear leader at this point, and Gov. Huntsman finds himself one of a small pack of potential national leaders. So he is simply in a lot of demand right now,' Jowers said."

February 11, 2009: "Walsh: Guv, church play gay politics" by Rebecca Walsh (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'It immediately hurts him with core Republican voters. But long term, he has at least four years for this to play out, says Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'Gov. Huntsman feels the calling to be a leader of the rethinking and reshaping of the Republican Party. He's concerned about the future.'"

February 11, 2009: "Prop 8 donors pinpointed on website map" by Brent Hunsaker (ABC4 News) "Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah said, 'For the most part I think disclosure is good.  But there are negatives.  It’s not the silver bullet that some people think it is because it can be chilling and it can even make harassment quite easy.'” 

February 10, 2009: "Guv's civil-unions stand panned, praised" by Rosemary Winters and Robert Gehrke (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'He will come out on issues even though they are not popular with his party or even within his state, but so far people have respected him for that,' Jowers said, noting Huntsman's efforts..."

February 9, 2009: "Legislator compaigns get 81% fo funds from special interests" by Lee Davidson (Deseret News) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, says Utah campaign laws — which unlike most states have no donation limits, and allow direct donations by corporations — tend to discourage lawmakers from seeking donations from regular citizens because easy, big special-interest money can supply all they need."

February 9, 2009: "Lawmakers must regain voter trust" by Kirk Jowers and Matthew Sanderson (The Daily Utah Chronicle) Hinckley Institute of Politics' director Kirk Jowers co-authored an op-ed on voter turnout and trust in Utah.

February 6, 2009: "United States: Political Activity Law Bulletin - Disclosure Rules for Lobbyist Bundling" by Trevor Potter, Kirk L. Jowers, Joseph M. Birkenstock, Stacy Q. Cline, Matthew T. Sanderson and Kirsty B. Tsadick. Co-authored work by Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, Published in the Political Acitivty Law Bulletin, Winter 2009.

February 4, 2009: Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, appeared on UPR's Access Utah today with host Lee Austin and fellow guest Meg Holbrook regarding the Governor’s Commission on Strengthening Utah’s Democracy. 

February 2, 2009: This week on Utah NOW, the always-dicey question of ethics in the Utah Legislature.  This week Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers and Ken Verodia join host Doug Fabrezio to talk about the efforts to reform the rules of conduct on Utah's Capitol Hill.

February 2, 2009: "Sparking voter turnout" by Aaron Zundel (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Headed by Utah Jazz owner Larry Miller, and co-chaired by the U’s own Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics the 16–member commission hopes to investigate those perceptions, primarily by focusing on ethics reform.

February 2009: "Campus All-Stars - Achievements of U of U Faculty, Staff, Students, and More" (U of U Alumni Association) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, has been named by Gov. Jon Huntsman to head an independent government ethics commission... Jowers says he hopes the commission will make recommendations in areas such as campaign finance laws, lobbying rules, and party nomination systems, among many others. The commission will not make any recommendations until after lawmakers adjourn in early March."

January 30, 2009: "Ethics Reform" with Doug Fabrizio (KUED Utah Now) This week on Utah NOW, the always-dicey question of ethics in the Utah Legislature.  This week Hinckley Institute Director Kirk Jowers and Ken Verodia join host Doug Fabrezio to talk about the efforts to reform the rules of conduct on Utah's Capitol Hill.

January 29, 2009: "Utah wants ethics reform" (Deseret News) "According to Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah and co-chairman of the newly empaneled Governor's Commission on strengthening Utah's Democracy, Utah has some of the most lax campaign finance laws in the nation. That's hardly a proud distinction. Utah's laws should be on par with the rest of the nation, if not stricter."

January 29, 2009: "Huntsman addresses budget cuts" by Jed Layton (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, said Utah lawmakers would be smart to use bonds as a way to obtain cash revenue and limit budget cuts. Bonds are loans that states, cities and corporations can obtain to build roads and buildings. Jowers said Utah has an AAA bond rating, the highest possible, at a time when many other states have no borrowing credibility. Cash that would have previously been used to build economy-stimulating roads and buildings could then be put to softening budget cuts."

January 28, 2009: "Laymakers flip budget process" by Jed Layton (Utah Daily Chronicle) "Jowers also said both the House and the Senate have new leadership this session. David Clark, R-Santa Clara, is the new speaker of the House and Michael Waddoups, R-West, Jordan is the new president of the Senate. 'New leadership always causes a level of chaos,' Jowers said. 'Different styles, constituents and philosophies change the way people interact and work. There will be some adapting on Capitol Hill for the first little while.'”

January 28, 2009: "Admins hope Legislature will follow Huntsman's plan" by Jed Layton (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, a Republican and director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, is a supporter of Huntsman’s plan to use the fund. 'I understand some legislators’ concerns to be fiscally responsible,' he said. 'But to not use the fund is allowing ideology (to) supersede logic.'"

January 27, 2009: "Shurtleff spent $730,000 on re-election bid" by Chris Rizo (LegalNewsline.com) "'Mark Shurtleff is a popular politician and most people approve of his job,' Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, told Legal Newsline in a pre-election."

January 26, 2009: "Miller to lead ethics commission" by Jed Layton (Utah Daily Chronicle) "Larry Miller will lead a state ethics commission along with Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. announced Thursday."

January 23, 2009: "Hinckley panelists predict reform and gay rights to take backseat" by Alex Cragun (Daily Utah Chronicle) "In a special forum Thursday at the Hinckley Institute of Politics, local newspaper reporters said Utah can expect more budget cuts to go through the Utah Legislature this session, while ethics, health care reform, liquor laws and gay rights take the backseat.
The Hinckley Institute hosted the forum with Doug Fabrizio’s political-broadcasting “RadioWest” show on KUER and invited two reporters from The Salt Lake Tribune and one reporter from the Deseret News to discuss what people could expect from the 2009 Utah legislative session."

January 23, 2009: "Huntsman appoints ethics reform panel" by Bob Bernick Jr. (Deseret News) "Huntsman and University of Utah Hinckley Institute of Politics director Kirk Jowers, who will 'drive' the commission's work, both said one area where Utah clearly lags behind other states is campaign finances.  'We have the most lax laws in the nation,' said Jowers, adding Utah allows any amount of money into campaigns from any source.  Hinting that Utah may be behind the times, Jowers said that maybe 'we missed a reform passed 40 years ago' in another state."

January 23, 2009: "Gov Launches Commission on Strengthening Democracy, Ethics" by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW) "Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics, will be the commission's vice chairman. 'We have missed so many reforms on some of these areas that we might be able to just learn from all the mistakes of these other states and just put in a really top flight-level model, you know, [of] democratic governance,' Jowers says."

January 23, 2009: "Names in the Game" Associated Press (International Herald Tribune) "'The people have to have a faith in all aspects of our government. They have to be engaged. They have to understand why decisions are made,' said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at
the University of Utah and the commission's co-chairman."

January 23, 2009: "Huntsman tabs Jazz owner for ethics panel" by Brock Vergakis (The Associated Press) "Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, will serve as the commission's
co-chairman. He said polls repeatedly show that the public wants its government to enact meaningful reforms and it is time that Utah takes..."

January 22, 2009: "Utah Legislative preview" with Doug Fabrizio (KUER) RadioWest broadcast live from the HInckley Institute of Politics. Kirk Jowers joins the panel to preview the upcoming legislative session. It will be tougher going this year for Utah's lawmakers than in years past. A faltering economy will mean difficult decisions as they try and balance the budget. We'll talk about the players, the relationships and of course, the issues at play this year. 

January 22, 2009: "Governor organizes government ethics commission" by John Daley (KSL Ch 5) "'We have 50 other states and the District of Columbia that have been making reforms, and the federal government. And we can see what has worked what has not worked, what can be applicable to our state,' said Kirk Jowers, vice chair of the new commission."

January 22, 2009: "Legislators Meet with LDS Leaders on State Liquor Laws" by Sandy Reisgraf (KSTU Fox 13) "The question is not whether your talking to too many, but too few of these constituents; are some people being excluded from the conversation who have just right to comment as others, and that to me the more important question." stated Kirk Jowers, of the Hinckley Institute of Politics regarding state representatives meeting with LDS church leaders to discuss state liquor laws.

January 22, 2009: "Governor Wants Utahns Engaged in Democracy" by Fields Moseley (KUTV News) "Ethics reform and campaign finance can be touchy subjects with legislators.  Kirk Jowers of the Hinckley institute of Politics thinks those affect how people view government. 'We basically have one of the two or three laxest campaign finance laws in the country,' said Jowers."

January 21, 2009: "Hinckley interns brave inauguration crowds in DC" by Michael McFall (Daily Utah Chronicle) "U student interns joined hundreds of thousands of Americans in celebrating the inauguration of Barack Obama, the 44th president, but some watched and listened in different venues than they had originally planned. In Washington, D.C., interns with the Hinckley Institute of Politics had the chance to be among those packed into hotels, buses, sidewalks and streets to see the inauguration of the country’s first black president."

January 21, 2009: "Students celebrate at Kingsbury" by Isabella Bravo (Daily Uath Chronicle) "The broadcast was followed by a panel discussion with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers and political science professor Tim Chambliss, moderated by Doug Fabrizio of KUER’s RadioWest. Jowers said Obama has a 76 percent approval rating, but this might not last forever. 'President Bush had a 91 percent approval rating at one point,' Jowers said. 'The party’s over. That’s what happens to those 80 percent approval ratings. I’m hoping Obama will take on these challenges.'”

January 21, 2009: "Larry H. Miller to co-chair ethics commission" (KSL) Kirk Jowers, who directs the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, will help lead the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Democracy.

January 21, 2009: "Inaugural impressions from the University of Utah" (Blog) Past Hinckley Institute of Politics interns travel to Washington, D.C. to attend the Inaugural Ceremony.

January 21, 2009: "2,000 watch big event at U" by Elaine Jarvik (Deseret News) Over 2,000 people turned out to watch President Obama's Inauguration at the Hinckley sponsored Kingsbury Hall event.

January 20, 2009: "Change requires participation" by Alan Monsen (Daily Utah Chronicle) "There are many ways to get involved, such as the Hinckley Institute of Politics, which offers opportunities to influence the nation and world and make an impact. The recent Rock the Vote campaign registered over 3,000 students, some who had never voted before."

January 20, 2009: "Barack Obama's Inauguration - Utah Reacts" with Doug Fabrizio (KUER) Kirk Jowers, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics said, "President Obama is correct, we need to move forward..." during the post inauguration panel at Kingsbury Hall. Click here to listen.

January 19, 2009: "Welcome back, guv, we're kind of proud" by Rebecca Walsh (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'Leavitt distinguished himself above and beyond all other Bush Cabinet secretaries,' says Kirk Jowers, director of the University of Utah's Hinckley Institute of Politics. 'He's seen by both the right and the left as someone who was innovative, straightforward. He's a superstar.'"

January 15, 2009: "Even in Republican Utah, Bush presidency rated lackluster, poor" by Thomas Burr (The Salt Lake Tribune) "The economic troubles, paired with the groundswell of support for incoming President Barack Obama, could account for the drop, says Kirk Jowers, head of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. 'Part of this lower approval rating is the natural evolution of our presidents,' Jowers says. "We elect them, we love them, as we do with Obama right now. Then they go through highs and lows, but typically [at the end of the cycle] we haven't liked our presidents much. We're tired of them and ready for the next new thing.'"

January 15, 2009: "Campus to broadcast Obama inauguration" by Jed Layton (The Daily Utah Chronicle) "Following the coverage there will be a panel discussion featuring Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, and Tim Chambless,  an assistant professor of political science, at 11 a.m. The discussion will center on how the transition of power between presidents has been able to remain peaceful."

January 15, 2009: "Hot ticket: Eagles will land in Sandy" (The Salt Lake Tribune) "'A Peaceful Transition of Power: Barack Obama Becomes the 44th President of the United States,' with Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers and other political experts; Kingsbury Hall."

January 13, 2009: "Times' Friedman to speak at UMNH" by Alex Cragun (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute, said Friedman is a highly respected commentator and an innovator in eco-economics.'We want the students to meet and hear Friedman to challenge some of their opinions,' Jowers said."

January 12, 2009: "Two Free Inauguration Events" by Elizabeth Ziegler (KCPW) "The venue will air live coverage from the inauguration, which will be followed by a panel discussion led by Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk ..."

January 12, 2009: "Jowers picked to lead state ethics commission" by Jed Layton (Daily Utah Chronicle) "Kirk Jowers, director of the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, is alarmed by the results of the 2008 election. Not that he is unhappy with any of the winning candidates. Instead, he is worried about the low voter turnout."

January 7, 2009: "Walsh: Shurtleff's timing on Utes suspect" by Rebecca Walsh (The Salt Lake Tribune) "Hinckley Institute of Politics Director Kirk Jowers doesn't mind. 'Whether or not it's for political purposes, God bless him. The more pressure we can put on the BCS, the better. The BCS needs to fold.'"

January 6, 2009: "Governor Jon Huntsman" with Doug Fabrizio (KUER) Kirk Jowers, Lisa Riley Roche and Rebecca Walsh participated in a live RadioWest panel to discuss Governor Joh Huntsman's reelection and future administration. Click here to listen.

January 2, 2009: Utah Now, "Year in Review" with Doug Fabrizio (KUED) Looking back at 2008 to talk about the highlights and the characters who made '08 one of the most interesting years - in years.  X-96's Bill Allred, The Salt Lake Tribune's Rebecca Walsh, Richard Piatt from KSL and Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics were among the guests.