Lee Facing Backlash Over Government Shutdown

“When Mike Lee toppled longtime Republican Sen. Robert F. Bennett here in 2010, it was the tea party’s first big triumph. But now, after a 16-day government shutdown, it’s Lee who faces a revolt within his own party,” the Washington Post reports.

“Lee’s approval ratings in Utah have cratered, and prominent Republicans and local business executives are openly discussing the possibility of mounting a primary challenge against him. Top Republicans are also maneuvering to redesign the party’s nomination system in a way that would likely make it more difficult for Lee to win reelection in 2016.”

Wall Street Journal: “Critics in the Republican Party, including former governors and
sitting legislative leaders, openly blame Mr. Lee for helping chart a
course they say weakened the party’s standing nationally and dented a
state economy reliant on tourists drawn to its national parks.”