‘Mormon Land’: How Orrin Hatch transformed the political loyalties of Latter-day Saints
They now rank among the most reliably Republican voting blocs. The late Utah senator also helped shape a conservative Supreme Court that appears ready to overturn Roe v. Wade.
(Francisco Kjolseth | The Salt Lake Tribune) Orrin Hatch, shown in 2018, died last month. The late senator ranks among the most important and influential political figures in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
David is a managing editor at The Tribune, where he has worked since 1984. He oversees coverage ranging from local government and west-side issues to growth, development and housing. In addition, he directs religion reporting, co-hosts the award-winning “Mormon Land” podcast and writes the Mormon Land newsletter.
Hired in 1991 to cover Utah's various faiths, particularly Mormonism, Peggy has talked forgiveness with Archbishop Desmond Tutu, nearly fainted waiting for the Dalai Lama, fasted with Muslims during Ramadan — and has reported on 50 consecutive semiannual LDS General Conferences.