This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Re "Hatch is under fire for helping drugmaker" (Tribune, Jan. 24):
During this time of no federal budgets, out-of-control deficit spending and dysfunctional political leaders, it is disturbing that Sen. Orrin Hatch and other self-proclaimed conservatives would foolishly award drugmaker Amgen a $500 million giveaway of money that we don't have, is not their money to give and reeks of payback for $68,000 in campaign contributions.
It is irresponsible that the senator and other elected representatives would vote to give money that is so desperately needed by hardworking American families during these difficult economic times and 40 percent of which must be borrowed.
I expect better of Utah's elected representatives.
As Hatch repeatedly said during his recent re-election campaign: "It's Utah's time to lead." Americans deserve better.
Steven D. Bench
Holladay