In a letter addressed to fellow Republicans, in 2004, Chaffetz (along with three others) strongly opposed automatic delegates. Here are parts of that letter:

We write today in opposition to the “Automatic and Appointed Delegate” selection process. The
strength of the Republican Party is our grassroots commitment to all Utahns.

As Delegates are elected in their individual precincts our party and democracy are strengthened because they have been empowered by the votes of the grass-roots of our party.

In principle, we are opposed to allowing party insiders, the establishment, and others in positions of power being granted additional voting power and therefore diluting the votes and will of the people.

We recognize that the insiders’ agenda can at times compromise or be in conflict with the best interests of the party. Our party will be stronger and the process will be more legitimate, fair and transparent by having all Delegates elected at their individual caucus meetings.

We recognize the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice by many uncompensated party workers,
including County Chairs. They should all most certainly become Delegates as active members of the party. However, we believe it is counter to our core principles to reward their party commitment with the granting of unelected voting powers. We believe volunteering to participate in the Republican Party is to ultimately preserve and protect the rights of individuals through our elective democracy, not to preserve power for those in power.

It is reasonable for all of us, just once every two years, to spend an hour-and-a-half to attend our caucus meetings and allow our neighbors to decide who should and should not be a Delegate. Elected officials must value their Delegate status. If they care enough to
become a Delegate at caucus time, then their interest in participating in every aspect of the process (meeting candidates, reading and voting on resolutions and rules) will be taken more seriously.

Conceptually, failure to allocate all Delegates at the precinct caucuses would be like failing to allocate all legislative seats at the ballot box. The idea of withholding legislative House and Senate seats—to be appointed by legislative leadership—would be widely objected to by all. Delegates should
be elected by those in attendance at precinct caucuses.

Grass roots participation matters because it is best for our transparent democracy.

We hope you will take time to consider the positive impact on party decisions and directions that would result from the complete elimination of automatic and appointed delegates at all levels in our party and to stand firm against any attempt to broaden the impact of automatic delegates in our
conventions.

Let’s all support the removal of the “Automatic and Appointed Delegate” from the Utah Republican Party system.