• Sutherland recently released its new statement of principles, along with a renewed mission and vision statement.
• Returning to principled policy debate, and away from contentious political debate, is a necessity for the health of our nation.
• Faith, family and freedom are foundational pillars of American society.

Sutherland Institute recently released its new statement of principles, along with a renewed mission and vision, which will guide the think tank’s work and efforts for years to come. What does this mean for Utahns?

Sutherland’s president and CEO, Rick Larsen, highlighted the importance of making such a change during an election year, as many conversations become heated.

“There is never a more important time than a contentious election year to remind ourselves of the anchoring principles that have led to America’s success and prosperity,” he said in an official press statement.

Sutherland Institute offers a consistent voice that can guide and influence public debate of major issues in a constructive way – especially as the fluidity of partisan politics can leave voters frustrated.

“I think it’s safe to say that our political parties today, if you study your history, have evolved on their adherence to principle,” Larsen said in a recent interview on Defending Ideas. “What hasn’t changed is Sutherland’s voice adhering to founding principles.”

Larsen pointed out that the system of government developed by the Founding Fathers is standing strong.

“We are seeing gridlock in our federal government because it was designed to reach gridlock in points of extreme disagreement.”

Though the system is functioning as it was designed, Larsen urged a return to principled debate, with Sutherland and Utah leading the way.

“Sutherland is an advocate for principled debate – not as weakness, not as surrendering your side.”

Returning to a set of core principles, Larsen said, provides for an avenue of compromise, without feeling like you’ve given in to a louder voice or been defeated.

Sutherland, like Utah, believes in the values of faith, family and freedom.

By standing on those foundational pillars, we can return to principled, effective policy debate. As Sutherland renews this commitment, it offers the opportunity to voters and elected officials across Utah and the country to do the same.

For a more in-depth perspective on this article, read the full statement of principles here. To watch or listen to the full podcast discussion, click here.