Defending Ideas is a weekly podcast produced by Sutherland Institute. On this show we are committed to renewing the principles of common sense conservatism, equipping listeners to become more effective champions of sound principle and good policy.
Utah Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson on the state of election security
We’ve all seen the controversy in recent years in the news and online over the issue of election security. So, what is actually going on, and is your vote secure?
The missing constitutional questions in Utah’s Amendment D debate
What’s the proper role of citizen ballot initiatives compared to laws passed by the state Legislature as different methods to create public policy?
A special look at the new film “Free Exercise: America’s Story of Religious Liberty”
The freedom to live your faith is a bedrock American principle. But has the right of religious freedom always enjoyed the level of protection that it does today?
Rep. John Curtis on why modern politics needs a reset: town halls, Reagan, climate and more
If you’re frustrated with national politics, is a “reset” the answer?
Rep. Celeste Maloy on the proper role of the federal government
We sat down with Rep. Celeste Maloy to hear her views on the proper balance between federal and state authority on a range of issues.
Will 2025 be the Super Bowl of tax policy? With Rep. Blake Moore
Congress is approaching a major deadline with many provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire in 2025. What does this mean for Utahns and the upcoming elections in November?
Rep. Burgess Owens on the role of parents in education
We often talk about the vital role parents play in directing the education of their children. But is this principle of parental engagement top of mind for policymakers in Washington, D.C.?
A parent’s perspective on access to what’s happening in the classroom
Parental engagement has huge benefits for students. But how easy is it for a parent to actually be involved in what his or her children are learning in school?
Is zoning reform the answer to high housing costs? With Nolan Gray
It’s easy for housing affordability to feel like an intractable issue, but one national expert argues that we can solve this policy challenge by reforming local zoning policies.
Why centralizing elections could weaken election integrity | Derek Monson
Pres. Donald Trump’s recent call to nationalize elections has reignited debates about election security, federal power, and the proper role of states.
Utah, Upward Mobility, and the Future of the American Dream | Justin Callais
A new national report ranks all 50 states on upward mobility — and Utah comes out on top.
Religious freedom, courts, and federalism in Utah | Bill Duncan
With Utah’s legislative session underway, lawmakers are weighing major questions about religious freedom, judicial authority, and the proper balance of power between states and the federal government.
