Mr. Webb may be correct that individuals and groups contribute to certain candidates who share their beliefs and will, presumably, vote in line with them.

However, that is a far cry from offering a large sum of money for a specific vote on specific legislation. In my mind, that is a bribe. Especially when the vote (and the reason for the offer) is exactly opposite of the legislator' stated position. Dress it up if you like, Lavar. Regardless of the official decision, many will still believe Greg Hughes attempted to bribe Susan Lawrence.

As for Mr. Webb's assertions that such a quid pro quo takes place down at the city council level. I call BS on that. I highly doubt that members of my city council would trade their vote on a particular issue for cash. Do they receive contributions from groups and individuals interested in city policy and who might share their outlook and positions? Absolutely. But taking or changing a position for cash (and/or prizes)? No way.

I agree with Frank regarding bi-partisan, non-elected ethics commission. We also need term limits. It is too bad this whole October surprise has come about. Sadly by union goon, Democrat Neil Hansen, a highly ineffective legislator. I think the Deseret News had his effectiveness rating at passing legisaltion at 8%. His toxic personality and muck raking probably explain why he can't get anything passed.

I am not sure where you are getting your information regarding Rep. Karen Morgan, but your claim is absolutely false. In fact, only two people on the entire ethics committee voted to keep the ethics hearing open to the public, and Representative Karen Morgan was one of those two individuals.

Emily Bingham Hollingshead
Utah House Democrats Communications Director

EvenSteven misses the point that a determination has yet to be reached that any misconduct even occurred. So far there is only an accusation deliberately timed to do maximum damage to a political opponent.

Mr. Webb is exactly right that campaign contributions come from groups whose positions officials support with their votes. Like it or not, that is our system. An accusation of bribery is unjustified but makes great headlines.

Using 'ethics' to manipulate the political process is the truly unethical issue here.

Mr. Webb says that you can't take the politics out of politics.

This is exactly the attitude that has led to the public's distrust of politicians and has led to the current ethics fiasco in the House. Just because everyone is doing it doesn't make it right. Utah's politicians can, and should, be better than that.

Please, Mr. Webb, don't dismiss ethics charges by saying, "Well everybody does it."

Vote out all the GOP Leadership and bring about ethics reform and good open government. Send a strong message by voting for Seegmiller, Black, Morgan, Beck, Smith, Poulson. These politicians would be a counter balance to the rapid GOP Leadership of our State Legislature!!

but that doesn't make it right. I don't see how Webb can pretend to offer analysis on the impact of lobbying on democracy and ethics, given his choice of livelihood. Some full disclosure is certainly in order regarding his comments.