As 2024 reaches twilight, politicians understand that what happened this year will impact policy deliberations in 2025, especially in the Utah Legislature. We examine some of the more interesting and novel dynamics lawmakers will encounter in January.
An unprecedented number of women (31) will serve in the Legislature next year. Most Democratic leaders are female but several freshman Republican women are entering the ranks. How will this impact Capitol Hill?
Cowley: Hallelujah, and what the heck has taken so long?! Since the passage of the 19th Amendment, women have voted at a slightly higher rate than men, and it is about time we inch toward equitable representation in our legislature.
In most households, it’s women who manage the budget and feel the sting of inflation the sharpest. Female legislators will be well positioned to address a down-budget year.
I don’t think anyone should be hired, or in this case voted into office, solely based on their gender. I am not celebrating JUST because these lawmakers are women, but because these specific women are highly qualified. They bring unique perspectives and a breadth of knowledge to Capitol Hill. They are not better than their male colleagues but see issues through a different lens, a lens shared with half the population, and will help bring balance to consequential issues.