Jay Faison's Doers Network: A Push for Pragmatism in the GOP

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  Politics and Government on Wed, Oct 07th, 2026 by deseret
      Locale: UNITED STATES

A Shift Toward Pragmatism

The creation of the Doers Network represents more than a mere funding vehicle; it is a philosophical intervention within the GOP. At the core of Faison's initiative is the belief that the current political landscape has skewed too far toward ideological purity, often at the expense of functional governance. By focusing on "doers," Faison is targeting candidates who possess a proven track record of effectiveness—individuals capable of negotiating complex policy and delivering tangible outcomes for their constituents.

This movement seeks to carve out a space for a brand of conservatism that remains rooted in right-leaning principles but avoids the performative aspects of modern political warfare. The objective is to insulate moderate candidates from the pressures of ideological litmus tests that have, in recent years, led to the primarying of established incumbents who are perceived as insufficiently aligned with the far-right wing of the party.

The Archetype: John Curtis

A central figure in this strategic extrapolation is Representative John Curtis. Curtis has long been viewed as an exemplar of the "doer" mentality, often occupying a space in the GOP that emphasizes bipartisanship and a willingness to challenge party orthodoxy when it conflicts with practical solutions. By aligning the Doers Network with candidates like Curtis, Faison is signaling a preference for leaders who are comfortable operating in the center-right, focusing on economic stability and institutional integrity rather than cultural grievance.

Supporting candidates of Curtis's profile requires significant financial and strategic backing. In an era where primary challenges are frequently funded by national ideological groups, the Doers Network provides a critical counterweight. It ensures that moderate conservatives have the resources necessary to communicate their vision to the electorate and survive the volatility of primary contests.

The Utah Context and Broader Implications

Utah has historically been a stronghold for a more measured, traditional form of conservatism. However, the state has not been immune to the national trend of polarization. The launch of the Doers Network is a calculated attempt to preserve Utah's political identity as a place where competence and moderation are valued.

From a broader perspective, Faison's initiative highlights the evolving role of megadonors in the American political system. Rather than simply funding existing power structures, Faison is attempting to curate a specific type of leadership. This suggests a growing frustration among the donor class with a political style that favors disruption over deliberation. If the Doers Network succeeds in Utah, it could provide a blueprint for other states looking to revive a pragmatic conservative wing capable of governing in a divided nation.

Strategic Challenges

Despite the financial backing, the path for the Doers Network is not without obstacles. The primary challenge remains the internal dynamics of the Republican Party. The tension between the "doers" and the populist wing is not merely a disagreement over policy, but a conflict over the very nature of political representation. While Faison's network prioritizes results, the populist wing often prioritizes the signal of resistance to the establishment.

For the Doers Network to achieve long-term viability, it must do more than just fund candidates; it must successfully redefine what "conservative success" looks like to the average voter. The success of this venture will depend on whether the electorate continues to value the quiet efficiency of a "doer" over the high-decibel appeal of the ideological warrior.

Ultimately, Jay Faison's investment in the Doers Network is a gamble on the resilience of moderate conservatism. By betting on figures like John Curtis, Faison is attempting to prove that there is still a potent, winning coalition for those who prefer the hard work of governing over the optics of opposition.