Today I had the opportunity to run up to the hill and take part in the Young Democrats of Utah’s annual Caucus Lunch. I must admit that, even though I have worked on the hill and know many of the legislators on first name basis (though I did not do so because it violates my first rule), it still strikes me with awe to be standing at the place where decisions and policies are shaped that affect our state for years to come.

What was truly odd was that I was speaking to legislators, not as an intern or staff, but as a sort of freshman reporter. I sat down and talked to as many as I could find to ask them what bills were important to them, how they felt about some of the goings-on on the hill, what they think will happen with the budget, and other various questions that I never would have thought to bring up had I not been writing for this silly little blog.

And so, I have a few more tips and leads, was fascinated by the insights legislators gave to various bills, and I have even more of a sense of wonder about the whole process.

I will be reporting on what the various legislators had to say soon, but for right now I am just going to take it in…I think I know why I do this crazy thing called politics.