A press release from the party referred to the members appointed by Senate President Stuart Adams and House Speaker Brad Wilson as “politically-motivated.” Democratic Party Chair Jeff Merchant stated in the release that the appointment of former Congressman Rob Bishop and former state Senator Lyle Hillyard to the committee will “secure 10 years of maps that benefit state Republicans.”
In contrast, Merchant said the Democratic choices, which include former state Senator Pat Jones, show “clear commitments to diversity” in redistricting decisions.
Senate President Adams responded to the press release with a statement that he is “discouraged to see the Utah Democratic Party politicize, divide and resort to name-calling.” He said despite differing viewpoints, he applauds the selection of Jones for the committee and views her as a comparable appointment to Hillyard.
Ogden Rep. LaWanna âLouâ Shurtliff dies
The Democratic lawmaker had been hospitalized since Dec. 7.
Leah Hogsten | The Salt Lake Tribune Newly elected Democrat, Lawanna Lou Shurtliff, 83, is a retired teacher who served previously in the Utah Legislature from 1999 - 2008. Shurtliff said she will focus on education during her time in the Utah House of Representatives. | Updated: 7:23 p.m.
Longtime Rep. LaWanna âLouâ Shurtliff, D-Ogden, died Wednesday at 85.
Her granddaughter, Michelle Catts, said in a statement Thursday morning that after a three-week battle with infection, âit was ultimately determined that Lou recovering and coming off of ventilatory support was not possible. In accordance with her wishes, the decision was made to let her pass peacefully. She was surrounded by her children, brothers, and son-in-law.â