Chaffetz’ iPhone gaffe lands him well-funded Utah challenger

Rep. Jason Chaffetz of Utah is facing an unexpected challenge from a Democratic political newcomer who has suddenly raised nearly a half million dollars. The election for Chaffetz’ U.S. congressional seat is more than a year away but Dr. Kathryn Allen is tapping into anger over Chaffetz’ recent comment suggesting people should spend their money on health insurance instead of than iPhones.
She has raised $467,000, got a boost from comedian Rosie O’Donnell and a mention on the Rachel Maddow show on MSNBC. It will be Allen’s first run for office in the heavily Republican congressional district. Chaffetz’ March 7 remarks set off a firestorm of criticism on social media. He later conceded that his point about people being self-reliant didn’t come out as smoothly as it could have.