Democratic Legislators to Watch

Ben got mentioned as one of 12 Democratic State Legislators to Watch in a national online newsletter. Who knew anyone was paying attention to Democrats in Utah? And, one of only twelve from across the US. Congrats, Ben!

The lnik to the publication is found here. (http://www.governing.com/blogs/politics/Democratic-Legislators-to-Watch.html) Selected text is below.

Democratic Legislators to Watch

Posted By Louis Jacobson | June 1, 2011

"Last week, we offered more than a dozen Republicans to watch in the nation's state legislatures. This week we turn to the Democrats. We assembled this list by seeking nominations from our network of sources in the states, as well as national experts on state legislatures.

"In seeking nominations, we assumed that ambition was a given. We wanted to feature politicians with a long future, particularly with the possibility of winning higher office at the state or federal level.

"We looked for leadership qualities, demonstrated either through formal leadership posts or service in junior positions where a legislator showed unusual initiative. The ability to strike alliances across party lines was a plus, as was a record of leading his or her party to noteworthy gains. We gave special weight to those who have a compelling personal story to tell.

. . .

"Utah state Sen. Ben McAdams: In a state with few prominent Democrats, McAdams has won praise for his success in bridging the gap between the parties. A moderate-to-liberal Mormon Democrat from Salt Lake City, McAdams won notice for his role -- while working as an aide to the city's Democratic Mayor Ralph Becker - in assembling support for a city non-discrimination ordinance."