2022 County & State Party Convention Winners
Goud Maragani
Throughout his professional career, GOUD Maragani has developed and honed a broad set of skills working for the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Large public and private organizations have relied on GOUD’s unique skill set in order to understand complex systems, explain them to employees, make improvements, develop transparency and audit results.
GOUD currently works for a Utah company doing business in 180 countries around the world. GOUD was hired because of his broad education, field experience, strong work ethic, and professional work history.
GOUD has been instrumental to companies and organizations due to his ability to design, implement, and track their compliance efforts based on strict adherence to their policies and the law. He has helped them develop efficient, cutting edge, and transparent ways to ensure accountability.
GOUD earned a B.A. in English Literature from the University of Illinois at Chicago and graduated with a law degree from Georgetown University.
GOUD cares deeply for America, its freedoms, and its opportunities. GOUD understands that these freedoms and opportunities must be upheld by citizens willing to serve.
GOUD has served our country in a number of roles:
– JAG Officer in the US Army Reserves
– Deployed to Afghanistan (Operation Enduring Freedom)
– Deployed to Kuwait (Operation Inherent Resolve)
– Currently a Major in the Utah National Guard
For the latest schedule of events, please go to our website: http://goud4clerk.com. I look forward to seeing you soon!
Roger L. Stout
Jim Dunnigan
Representative Jim Dunnigan is a dedicated public servant and advocate for the residents of Taylorsville and West Jordan. Jim and his wife Vicki are 45-year Taylorsville residents. They are the proud parents of two wonderful children who graduated from Taylorsville High and have now blessed them with 6 grandchildren.
Jim served on the Taylorsville/Bennion Community Council from 1991-1996, helped organize Taylorsville as a city, then served on its inaugural City Council, from 1996 to 2002. Jim is a small business owner in Taylorsville. He is also Chairman of the Taylorsville Dayzz Festival.
Representative Dunnigan was honored as a 2020 Business Champion by the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce. He was named the Utah Small Business Champion of the Year from the National Federation of Independent Businesses, the Utah Business Coalition presented him with the Top 30 Business Friendly Legislator Award, and he was awarded the Meritorious Service to the Community as a Legislator Award from Taylorsville City and Legislator of the Year by the Utah Health Insurance Association.
Jim received his Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Utah. When not working or doing legislative business, Representative Dunnigan enjoys playing competitive volleyball and spending time with his children and grandchildren.
electdunnigan.com
Gerald Burt
www.geraldburtutah.com
Christina Boggess
Christina Boggess, an active wife and mother, has been in education for more than 21 years. She has served in rural k-12 infrastructures, cluster modeled schools, suburban and urban/inner-city schools. Broken down, she has served over a decade at the elementary level and the same at the secondary. Her service is inclusive of Title I and Focus Schools as well as thriving top-tier institutions. The leadership she brought forth during her secondary terms earned multiple first-place state-level awards and multiple personal accolades at the secondary level including requests to adjudicate state-level competitions.
Christina has led teams and served as a teacher development trainer in English Language Arts, Music, Arts integration into the regular classroom, among many, others.
She is presently on the path to earn her Educational Doctorate by the end of 2023. Additionally, her resume boasts over 1000 hours of Microsoft training, 20 additional credentials applicable to education and ed administration.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 1998
Burgess Owens
Burgess Owens was raised in the 1960’s Deep South, during the era of Jim Crow and the KKK. His successful segregated Black community reflected the efforts of a proud generation of patriotic, competitive men and women, who worked hard to command the respect of their fellow Americans.
After high school, where he was 1 of 4 Black players to integrate a formally all-white football team, he was granted a scholarship to attend the University of Miami.
Burgess was the third black athlete recruited to play football at the University of Miami. He graduated as a first-team All-American defensive back with a B.S. degree in Biology and Chemistry.
He was later inducted into the University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame and the Orange Bowl Ring of Honor.
Burgess was drafted by the NY Jets as the 13th player in the 1st round. He played for the Jets seven years, three years as Defensive Team Captain before being traded to the Oakland Raiders. He was a member of the 1980 Super Bowl Championship team and earned All-Pro Honors his last season in 1983.
After retiring from the NFL, Burgess worked as an entrepreneur and a Corporate Sales Rep. Once he moved to Utah, he founded Second Chance For Youth, an organization dedicated to help at-risk and incarcerated youth.
Burgess now represents Utah’s 4th Congressional District. He serves on the House Education and Labor Committee and the Judiciary Committee.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 1980
Jay Cobb
True and Trusted Conservative
I am running for the Utah House of Representatives because I believe District 48 needs a strong, honest, and skilled conservative representative. Over the years, I have watched many politicians who run on one platform and then quickly change once they step into the Capitol. I am running so that District 48 has a consistent, dependable, and trusted conservative voice in the legislature.
As a resident of the district for nearly 15 years (I moved into Daybreak before Oquirrh Lake was built, Herriman High School was constructed, and when the District still had that crazy elongated roundabout), I have witnessed the tremendous growth that has occurred in the Southwest part of the valley. I know the issues that we face including infrastructure and transportation, education, and growth and development. I am anxious to tackle these issues and to make sure District 48 is not just heard but is a driving force behind the solutions we need.
I am a husband, father of four, attorney, and self-declared policy nerd. In the next few weeks, I will be reaching out to you to more fully introduce myself and and discuss the race. I also will be holding several town hall meetings. The first meetings will be Saturday, March 12 at 3:30 pm, Wednesday, March 16 at 7:30 pm and Wednesday March 30 at 7:30 pm. All of these will be at the Herriman Library. I look forward to meeting you, listening to your concerns, and earning your vote.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 1989
Andrew Nieto
www.nieto4house31.com
Linda L. Paulson
Your Values–Your Voice
Hello! I’m running for Utah Senate District 12. Like many of you, I’ve been frustrated with what’s going on in society. I’m dedicated to God, Family, and the Constitution. If this is what you value, I’d like to be your voice.
God loves all His children. He wants us to be free, and moral—(Exodus:20) I will honor God.
My husband and I have lived in Taylorsville 50 years. We are the parents of five girls and four boys; plus, 35 grandchildren and 14 greats! I care about our children and will challenge philosophies such as biological boys competing in Girls’ sports and Critical Race Theory.
Our Constitution is relevant today! It was instituted to be the law of the land and help all Americans to be free! Too much government; too many mandates and high taxes is bondage.
At my first Fourth of July parade, my father said, “Stand and cover your heart when the flag passes by. It’s your patriotic duty!” I have been politically involved, behind the scenes, and have served all my life:
• I have voted every year since eligibility
• Made door to door visits to incorporate Taylorsville as a city
• Served on the Taylorsville Park and Recreation committee
• Have been Precinct chairman several times for caucus meetings
• Have been a Delegate for county and state conventions several times
• Many years I was a Voting Judge in our district
• Served as missionaries in Winnipeg Canada and Salt Lake City
• In 2007, I earned my BA degree from BYU
• Presently I serve on the Taylorsville Community Connection Committee
I believe to be an American is a blessing and a responsibility. We need a Choice. I’m willing to face hard questions of what you and I value and be your voice in District 12. I hope you will give me your vote!
WWW.lindacampaign@linda4utahsenate.com
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 1962
Aimee Winder Newton
Aimee Winder Newton represents Taylorsville, Murray, West Jordan and West Valley City on the Salt Lake County Council. She was a former 2020 Republican candidate for Utah Governor and was the first woman elected as chair of the council.
Aimee works tirelessly to defend the quality of life in Salt Lake County while protecting your tax dollars.
• ‘Budget hawk’ who reviews the County budget, holding government accountable for every dime.
• Advocate for mental health resources, criminal justice reform and public safety.
• Created and chairs the Salt Lake County Intergenerational Poverty Task Force, bringing together state, county, city and school districts to work to break the cycle of poverty.
• Working on solutions for cleaner air, affordable housing, traffic mitigation and better jobs.
Aimee has served previously as a planning commissioner, a city communications director and an executive for an energy company.
She graduated from the University of Utah, operated a small business for the past 20 years, and is a mom to four young adults. She and her husband, Matt, have been married for 28 years, and just got their first pet – a mini golden doodle. She loves playing the piano and traveling with her family.
Richard Snelgrove
Richard is widely recognized as a hard working and dedicated public servant with an impeccable record. He continues to fight for safe neighborhoods, well funded police, clean air, clean water, government efficiency and transparency. As your Councilman, Richard is committed to enhancing the quality of life for Salt Lake County residents.
Richard is an advocate of openness in government. He sponsored an ordinance requiring that bond elections go on the ballot only in general election years when voter turnout is greatest. He proposed the citizen comment period in the Committee of the Whole meetings. He spearheaded the new citizen call-in opportunity during Council meetings. He holds impromptu “Council on the Corner” sessions throughout the county, where he can hear what citizens have to say outside the walls of county government.
The Utah Taxpayers Association has recognized Richard with its Taxpayer Advocate of the Year Award, “In recognition of his exemplary defense of taxpayers against tax increases and non-essential county spending.” He has delved deeply into each year’s budget, ferreting out ways to avoid tax increases. He pressed UTA to open its closed committee meetings by threatening to delay $150 million in county funding. He has tirelessly pushed to re-establish performance auditing on Salt Lake County operations.
Richard is a life-long resident of Salt Lake County. He was raised in the Sugar House area of Salt Lake City and attended Highland High School. He graduated from the University of Utah in 1980. He and his wife JoLynn make their home in Murray and are the parents of four children. He has been a baseball and soccer coach as well as a Boy Scout leader. In his spare time, he enjoys camping with his family. He hikes in the mountains of Salt Lake County nearly every weekend, year-round.
richardsnelgrove.com
Thomas E. Young
I am a life-long resident of the Wasatch Front and have called our district home for almost 20 years. My wife, Allison, and I enjoy sports, traveling, going to neighborhood events, and developing lasting relationship.
We are raising four daughters here, who do everything from basketball to soccer to softball to tumbling to dance to science to programming, and many things in between.
Professionally, I’m a long-time leader in the economics community who has worked for the Legislature, state, and local executive branch agencies, and as a private sector small business owner.
Allison and I met at the University of Utah, where she received her degree in Elementary Education and I received my three degrees in Economics (B.A.), Applied Physics (B.S.), and Business Economics (Ph.D.). We’re red through and through, and still enjoy going to the homecoming games.
I serve on the Board of Directors of American Preparatory Academy and as a Board of Trustees member of the non-partisan Utah Foundation.
As an economist, I think often about what types of jobs my kids will have and how they will compete in the future jobs market, how to ensure that their education is the best in the world at not only STEM, but in the arts and creative crafts, how to ensure that they’ll be able to afford the American Dream, and how safe they’ll be.
We are entering the most competitive era the world has ever seen. Everything matters in a world of instant interconnectedness and mobility: air quality, education, low taxes, regulation, and social cohesion, to name a few. In 2022, on the whole across the world, we’ll see 101 quadrillion remotely conscious decisions made. Around 563 billion of those will be us – the people in our district. Let’s make our 0.0006% count above its raw weight.
I think with me as your representative, we’ll be effectively represented, with policies built to last – keeping us thriving for many years to come.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 2021
Quinn Kotter
Utah native Quinn Kotter is a Chemical Engineer specializing in process engineering and sulfur recovery. He holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Utah and is a licensed engineer in three states.
He is a philanthropist, grassroots activist, and avid student and defender of the Constitution. His professional ability to understand both the details and full picture of all types of situations helps him to provide effective solutions without wasteful and unnecessary operations.
Quinn is involved, through testimony at the Capitol and advocacy effort on the ground, in supporting conservative legislation at the State level, including the prohibition of Vaccine Passports, the preservation of female sports in schools, and elimination of federal government overreach. He has the courage to support legislation that re-establishes parental authority to their children, for he knows that the family is the fundamental unit of society and must be maintained and strengthened.
God has been instrumental in Quinn’s life to bring him into public service. Quinn has a testimony of the uniqueness of the United States, its importance as a beacon of Liberty to the world, and that its Constitution must be preserved through our individual and collective faith and efforts.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 2019
Laurel Fetzer
Jeff Stenquist
Hello, I’m Jeff Stenquist and I’ve been honored to serve in the Utah House of Representatives for the past four years. It’s been a privilege to fight for fiscal responsibility, lower taxes, less government regulations, local control, high quality education and efficient government. I’ve sponsored bills to provide better oversight of government debt, to improve safety for children walking to school, and to improve parking for those in wheelchairs among other things. I’ve successfully fought to protect local control around zoning at Trax stations and gravel pit expansion. I created and currently chair the Outdoor Adventure Commission which is spearheading effort to plan for, maintain and improve outdoor recreation experiences for all Utahns.
We continue to face difficult times as we’ve moved on from the pandemic only to experience increasing inflation and unprecedented growth challenges. Through all of this I have consistently fought for conservative values and against government mandates. I will always work hard to keep our state thriving and prosperous, a place for businesses and families to grow and succeed. I stand strong for the principles that have made Utah the best managed state in the nation with the best economy, the lowest unemployment rate, and the best opportunities for upward mobility.
I’m Jeff Stenquist and I ask for your vote this year to continue to serve you!
Republican Since 1988
Ken Ivory
Family Is Everything
Ken was born in Mt. Pleasant, Utah (Sanpete County) in 1963. He grew up in Tempe, Arizona, graduating from McClintock HS in 1981. He served a mission for the LDS Church in Guatemala. Ken met and married his wife Becky in 1988. Becky is a past recipient of the Golden Apple Teacher Award. They have four amazing children and three adorable grandchildren.
Experienced Leadership
Ken Ivory, JD, served for nine years in the Utah House of Representatives, resigning in August of 2019. He maintains a general business, civil litigation, and estate planning law practice. Ken also served as an adjunct professor at Utah Valley University teaching American Federalism.
He continues to chair the National Center to Restore the Balance of Government for the American Legislative Exchange Council, an organization that honored him as the national state legislator of the year in 2014.
He is the author of “Where’s the Line? How States Protect the Constitution.”
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 1981
Chris Stewart
2nd District Congressman Chris Stewart is an Air Force veteran and B-1 Bomber pilot. He has spent his years in Congress focusing on National Security and fighting against deficit spending and overreach of the federal government. He is a member on both the Appropriations and House Intelligence committees—assigned to these because of his fiscally conservative record and Military experience. These assignments have taken him around the world to see first-hand the effects of national security policy. Mr. Stewart grew up farming and ranching and is the author of 20 books including NY times best-seller Seven Miracles that Saved America.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 1978
Dan Sorensen
Utah Senate District 14 – Dan Sorensen
Born the 10th of my parents’ 11 children, I was raised in a lively and welcoming East Millcreek home full of faith, music, firearms and fine art, with extra beds and a place at the table for those who on occasion needed a place to stay.
I attended our neighborhood public schools and worked at the family furniture business in Sugarhouse. Upon graduating from Olympus High I spent a year learning to fly a private plane and exploring the East Coast.
After serving a two year mission in Spain I enrolled at the University of Utah. With an interest in law and politics I took a job at a downtown law firm and, through the Hinckley Institute, I was offered an internship for a semester with the Utah Governor’s office in Washington D.C. where I rubbed shoulders with Orrin Hatch, Jake Garn and then-former Governor Scott Matheson.
I enjoyed it all, but being a lawyer was not for me, so after convincing Jana Bishop, of Salt Lake’s Parley’s neighborhood, to marry me, I began a career as an independent insurance agent and eventual owner of Granite Insurance Agency in Murray.
Jana and I built a home in the Canyon Rim area and six kids later we settled and built a home in East Millcreek. We now have three grandkids each being raised in the cities of Millcreek, Murray and Holladay.
We can often be found hiking, skiing, biking or fishing in our cherished Wasatch Mountains that grace this blessed community. From Sugarhouse to Holladay and Millcreek to Murray, the neighborhoods that comprise Senate District 14 are my home.
If knowing a community is essential to representing it, then in that respect I am well qualified.
Like the East Millcreek home in which I was raised I will strive to keep our community and our state a welcome refuge for those in need, a sanctuary for nature and outdoor adventure, a bastion for the arts, education, entrepreneurship and above all, freedom.
https://www.dansorensenutah.com/
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 2004
Nicholas J. Roberts
My name is Nicholas Roberts. I am running for the office of Sheriff for Salt Lake County on the Republican Ticket. I am a lifelong Republican dedicated to the principles in the U.S. Constitution as well as those in the Utah Constitution. I began my career in 1977 as a firefighter EMT for the Salt Lake City Fire Department. I became a police officer for Riverton City in 1978 and transitioned to work for Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy Sheriff in 1980. In 2010 I became a police officer with the Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake City. I hold this position today as a Patrol Sargent for the cities of Millcreek and Holladay.
I attended Suffolk County Community College, Salt Lake Community College, University of Virginia, University of Utah and Provo Technical College. I attended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Academy in 1998. I served as the President of the Utah Chapter in 2005.
I sit on the board for the National Institute of Justice Body Armor Imitative. I have held this position since 2002. I am the Chair of E54.04, The American Society of Testing and Materials (personal protective equipment.) In 2021 I had the distinct honor of being awarded the prestigious James A. Thomas President’s Leadership Award signifying “extraordinary leadership” from ASTM.
I am a court certified training and weapons expert in the field of firearms, and believe in the Second Amendment. I have been involved as a weapons expert in 59 officer involved shootings. I understand the need for education and training for both police officers and the general public.
I believe the Sheriff of Salt Lake County should have a broad and well established working relationship will all agencies within Salt Lake County.
I ask for your vote this November to help me in establishing and maintaining these critical relationships to benefit both the officers of Salt Lake County and the citizens we serve.
Danielle Ahn
Danielle Ahn is a conservative attorney born and raised in Utah who wants to bring law and order back to Salt Lake County’s Justice System. Danielle is committed to ending plea deals for repeat violent offenders, reforging relationships with law enforcement, and prioritizing victim’s rights and their voices. Above all else, Danielle Ahn stands for law and order. She knows that civil society and our systems of justice are strengthened when both victims and potential criminals can be confident that laws will be upheld. Society shows compassion to victims by upholding their rights and executing justice. Danielle’s rough upbringing and experiences have shaped her belief in a better and brighter tomorrow for those who reach to achieve it. Danielle met and married her husband, Seungwon, an immigrant from South Korea. Danielle proudly worked in Governor Gary Herbert’s General Counsel’s Office, after which she worked on the Korea Desk at the State Department in Washington, D.C. Danielle graduated cum laude from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in political science and a minor in international relations. She went on to obtain a law degree from the University of Utah, S.J. Quinney College of Law with a certificate in international and business law. While in law school Danielle served as president of the student chapter of the Federalist Society and graduate vice president of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society.
Danielle has a broad range of experience as both a litigator and transactional attorney. She currently serves as vice chair for the Utah Young Republicans and serves as a member of the SLCO GOP bi-laws committee. For Danielle, enough is enough; it’s time to restore balance to the county’s justice system. She believes that competent leadership, strong relationships with law enforcement, and prioritizing victims, will restore balance to the county’s justice system and help preserve our civil society. Vote for Danielle Ahn and make Salt Lake County safer.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 2008
Judy Weeks-Rohner
I am Representative Judy Weeks-Rohner. I am currently serving as the Representative from Utah House District 33, which will become House District 30 after redistricting takes effect. I have been a resident of West Valley City since 1983, and have been active in community affairs since then. I led the famous tax referendum in 2019 to stop what would have resulted in an increase in food taxes by 2.78%, increased gas by 10 cents a gallon, and numerous service taxes. I do not believe in any mandates. As a former member of the Granite School Board, and having served as PTSA president on numerous occasions, I believe in school choice and quality education. When we have needed a voice and a warrior I was leading. I don’t push from behind. I take the reigns and make everything better than I found it.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 2019
Rebecca Ipson
I have lived in Utah all my life and in West Valley City for 34 years. I graduated from Snow College and transferred to the University of Utah where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics. I was a missionary in Argentina and can still speak a little Spanish. I currently work part-time as a Resource Aide at West Lake STEM Junior High.
I have been a precinct chair and a delegate to county and state conventions, but this is my first time running for office.
My husband, Mark, and I have 5 children and 3 grandchildren.
I enjoy reading, knitting, crocheting, and playing the piano.
Daniel Thatcher
Senator Daniel W. Thatcher was elected in 2010, defeating a Democratic incumbent in a historic upset. He has maintained a solidly conservative voting record on protecting the unborn, constitutional rights, lower taxes, and school choice. He is best known for championing criminal justice reforms, veteran’s issues, first responders, and the creation of the SafeUT and 988 Crisis support systems. Government has more oversight and transparency because of his work. He has repealed more laws than any legislator in Utah history, and in addition to voting against SB54, has NEVER gathered signatures. He is married to a US Navy combat veteran.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 2004
Ruth Ann Abbott
Ruth Ann Abbott has been part of this community for many years, working tirelessly to make it a better place. She taught for years at the University of Utah, and at the high school level for a total of more than 20 years in education, most recently at a school for autism. She served eight years in the Inner City helping those in need gain access to medical, dental, housing and employment. She serves currently with her husband at the Veteran’s Association Medical Center for her church assisting mostly with donation organization and addiction recovery. Previous experience includes serving on the Bellevue, Kentucky School Board and working for Ouachita County, Arkansas Republican Party.
Combining the values set forth in the traditional vision of this great state with caring for our environment, managing our parks, outdoor adventure infrastructure, education and renewable energy initiatives, we can come together to keep our community great.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 1981
Richard D.M. Barnes
Richard D M Barnes is the Republican candidate for Salt Lake County Council District 1 for 2022 and deserves your support, and your vote (if eligible).
“Since 2006 I have represented our party and our libertarian Republican values as our candidate candidate for LD23 twice, SLC council twice, served as LD23/LD21 chair since about 2009, SD23/SD08 chair starting in 2021, and am running for Salt Lake County Council 1 against the same opponent for a second round, usually representing our area and our party in political races that no one else wants .
I am a University of Utah and Weber State graduate (B.S. geology & A.A. archaeology), a Colonel in the Commemorative Air Force (B-17 and B-25 flight crew), and am an Eagle Scout with four palms. A son of two public school teachers, I was Sterling Scholar at Viewmont High School in Bountiful, Utah in Foreign Languages (Spanish), which has been very helpful here in Rose Park, where I have owned my own home since 1993, serve in the LDS faith, run a small business out of our home, and have Been married to my wife Brenda since 1998.
Since my mother’s death in 2006, my wife & I have also spent considerable time caring for my aging father, who is an 8th Air Force B-17 flight crew veteran of WW2.
We enjoy attending and volunteering at live theatre, trade shows, and other arts & cultural events throughout the valley, & I always enjoy watching the magnificent sunrises and sunsets across our Wasatch mountains, which I will do everything in my power to protect.
I have also been involved in tourism, worked at two National Parks, donating what I can to the Save-the-Redwoods League, & serving at the old Salt Palace Center for eight years to earn my way through college. I play reccorder, create paper silhouettes for friends, & have been an NRA member since High School, & look forward reducing taxes, defending freedom & the environment, encouraging arts & tourism, & if elected, working to make life better for all.
-Richard D M Barnes
Candice Pierucci
I grew up in Herriman and have lived in House District 52 for over seventeen years—I remember when it was mostly farmland and neighborhoods. Since then, our district has seen tremendous growth, opportunity and unique challenges. My husband and I have chosen to raise our family here in the South Valley—I love the community and the people who live here.
I am passionate about what makes this district great—its people. I wholeheartedly believe in the principles of conservatism, free-markets and the power of community. In an era of government handouts and “democratic socialists,” I am uniquely qualified to reduce the burden of government and share the message of compassionate conservatism. As your representative, I am committed to continuing to work with you and for you.
I currently serve on the following general and interim committees: Health and Human Services, Transportation, Government Operations, Higher Education Appropriations, Retirement and Independent Entities Appropriations and the Economic Development and Workforce Services. I am also serving on the 2021 Redistricting Committee.
I have worked as Director of Community Relations for Congressman Chris Stewart, and most recently have been the development director for a conservative think tank that focuses on faith, family and free-markets. I have served as a Board Member and Flight Leader for Utah Honor Flight, Vice President of Professional Republican Women, Vice Chair of the UFCRs, and over the years have worked on presidential, congressional, and local campaigns.
I received my Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with an emphasis in American Government from Utah Valley University and my Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Utah.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 2009
Chris Harding
Chris won the Special Election for Salt Lake County Auditor on February 5, 2022 & was sworn in on February 8, 2022.
https://slco.org/auditor/
Chris knows that being the County Auditor is more than just being an Ombudsman. The County Auditor cannot wait for the public to bring him problems.
As your County Auditor, Chris is equipped with the training and skills necessary to identify and expose fraud, waste and abuse.
Chris Harding has over 16 years auditing experience.
Chris has real-world experience planning, leading, performing, and most importantly, delivering audit reports that give management and those charged with governance the information necessary to make informed decisions.
Chris lives with his family in South Jordan. He and his wife Candice have five kids whose ages range from 18 down to 5.
After graduating from Viewmont High School, Chris served a two year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Texas Dallas mission.
Chris earned a Bachelors in Accounting from the University of Utah.
Chris attended Weber State University where he got a Masters in Business Administration (MBA), while working full time for DCAA, studying for (AND PASSING) the CPA exam, and raising his small family.
Chris is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the Utah Association of Certified Public Accountants (UACPA), the Utah Association of Counties (UAC), The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE).
Chris has been educated and trained by the best to audit in accordance with professional standards such as the Generally Accepted Governmental Auditing Standards (GAGS/Yellow Book), issued by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF/Red Book) issued by the AICPA.
Chris is NOT a politician with a background in Public Administration BUT a highly trained CPA.
Check out: chris4auditor.com
Sheldon Stewart
Elections are about choices, and I believe it’s important to compare and contrast the records of those running for office so you can be as informed as possible in representing your precincts as a delegate. Here are a few key points:
-This County Council District has been represented by the same councilmember for 12 years, and now seeking 16 years.
-During the last 12 years, the county budget has doubled growing from $700 million to now $1.4 billion dollars during which time the county’s services have decreased.
-During the last 12 years, the Southwest portion of the county has seen less than 5% of eligible county sales tax dollars spent in our area, while we make up more than 30% of the population.
-During the last 12 years, we’ve seen the county make land use decisions that significantly impact our communities without adequate resident input.
-During the last 12 years, we’ve seen growth far outpace necessary infrastructure, leading to a diminished quality of life.
It’s time for a new voice for the Southwest. Here’s what I have done as a Riverton City Councilmember, and what I would commit to do as your County Councilmember:
1. I have saved taxpayers over $8 million with the formation of the Riverton Police Department and the Riverton Fire Service Area.
2. I have maintained low fees with Riverton being the lowest in the county for services.
I have attracted big business establishing reoccurring revenue sources vs. one time revenue sources that are dependent on residential development.
3. I have built transparent processes with Riverton’s budgeting and zoning processes.
4. I was the first councilmember to begin dialoging with residents through various social media platforms and listing my cell phone when in office. I further supported the creation of the communication department which as been recognized by our residents for the timely and efficient communication.
A vote for me is a VOTE for ACTION Not WORDS.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 1992
LeAnn Wood
LeAnn Wood is a wife, mother, grandmother, and strong supporter of Public Education. She graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelors of Science in Zoology. Her emphasis was in teratology. She spent the early years of her marriage studying what chemicals caused fetal birth defects. As her 5 children grew, she chose to change her focus from protecting the unborn to protecting all children and families. LeAnn and her husband, Darren, have lived in Kaysville, Utah for nearly 15 years. They moved from Anacortes, Washington in 2007 and chose to settle in Davis County. With over 10 years experience following education policy, LeAnn is a firm believer that there are five best practices for public education: family engagement, quality teachers, strong leadership, positive school climate, and rigorous standards. LeAnn is a life-long learner and has served in countless volunteer positions. She has been actively involved in her children’s schools since the mid-90’s, and has served with the Boy Scouts of America, Utah PTA, and participated on several Utah State education committees.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 1989
Robert Spendlove
Our state is in a period of unprecedented economic uncertainty. We need proven leadership to maintain our position as one of the most fiscally-sound and enviable states in the nation.
I have spent my career focused on fighting for people, strengthening Utah’s economy, and positioning our state for success.
My legislative priorities include: strengthening Utah’s economy, empowering education, protecting Utah’s health, and improving our air quality.
I have proudly served the people of Sandy and Cottonwood Heights since 2014. I currently serve as the Vice Chair of the Executive Appropriations Committee. I also serve on the Revenue and Taxation Committee, the Health and Human Services Committee, and the Public Education Appropriations Committee.
Professionally, I am the Senior Economist for Zions Bank and I serve on several community boards and commissions, including the Utah Economic Council, Envision Utah, and the Intermountain Healthcare Salt Lake Hospitals Board of Trustees.
I received a Master’s of Public Administration with an emphasis in economic public policy at the University of Utah.
My wife, Kristen, and I have lived and raised our children in Sandy since 1999.
John McPhie
My wife and I have lived on the Wasatch Front most of our lives, and are proud to call it home. We have four children who attend public school, and we value and respect their teachers and administrators. We also support incentives to promote competitive excellence in education, as well as a parent’s right to choose public, private, or home education.
I’m pleased with the direction our state is going. Recently, I re-read the Utah Republican Platform, and I whole-heartedly support its principles, which are: The Rule of Law, The Proper Role of Government, Private Property, States’ Rights, Public Protection, and Freedom of Religion, to name but a few.
Utah’s foster care system and refugee resettlement organizations are near and dear to my heart. If elected, I would be honored to donate my government pay to these worthy causes.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 2020
Gary Sandberg
I am W. Gary Sandberg. I have lived in Salt Lake County my entire life. Following the untimely death of my first wife, with whom I shared an adopted daughter, I met and married Darcy Ellis. We were blessed with 4 sons, and 18 grandchildren. From the same home, I attended 3 elementary, 2 jr. high and 2 high schools, graduating from Olympus High. With annual boundary changes, I enjoyed making new friends each year. As an athlete, I played football for Coach Lavell Edwards at Granite High, who was also my wrestling coach and Drivers Ed. & health teacher.
In addition to 4 years of business management studies at the U of U, I served a church mission in Sweden. Thereafter, I served for 8 years in the Utah Nat’l Guard, achieving the rank of 1st Lieutenant, however, due to my first wife’s passing at age 26 leaving an 8 month old child in my sole care, I reluctantly resigned my commission. I stayed involved in public service as an Honorary Colonel in the South SLC Police Dep’t and as a Decker Lake Juvenile Correctional Facility volunteer.
Utah’s Granite Mill and Fixture Co. was founded in 1907 by my Grandfather Frederick R. Sandberg. For 115 years, it has created fine woodwork locally and internationally. An employee since age 9, I worked beside my father, Wayne L. Sandberg, who was and is, my hero!! My tasks were menial at first, but I loved the smell of wood and learned from skilled craftsmen, who built and molded beautiful things from nature’s great gift of WOOD. The Granite Mill legacy passed to me from my father (who served as a Utah 4th District State Senator) and grandfather, and is carried on today by three of our sons. It has employed hundreds of workers over the years. From sweeping wood shavings and operating complex equipment to making multi-million dollar decisions, I have experienced all facets of business, including 6 years as the Nat’l Director of the Architectural Woodworking Institute and as a member of the U of U Fine Arts Advisory Board.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 1968
Mark A. Strong
Why I’m Running
I want want to preserve freedom for my family and yours.
One of the most memorable experiences of my youth was living in Munich, Germany while my father was serving in the Air Force. While there I got to travel to Berlin with our youth football team to play the American team there and to see West Berlin. Back in 1982 the wall between East and West Berlin was a very dark place. During my weekend there our team went to a lookout point where we climbed some stairs to a small platform, big enough for just a couple boys, and looked over into East Berlin. The only way I can describe the contrast is black and white on the East versus technicolor on the West. I know now that it was the result of Communism versus freedom. This experience coupled with being raised in a military family on bases overseas and in the U.S., has given me a great love of freedom, the benefits that come with it, and the efforts needed to keep it.
The experiences of my youth as well as frustration with today’s politics, especially at the federal level, has propelled me to get involved by running for the Utah House of Representatives for District 41. I want to preserve freedom for my family and yours. Some of the ideals that will guide my actions in the house are described below. Please take some time to learn about me here and feel free to reach out to me in person or by email.
strong4utah.com
Steve Eliason
Representative Steve Eliason has served in the Utah House of Representatives since 2011. He currently represents House District 45 and is running for re-election in District 43, which includes parts of Sandy, Cottonwood Heights, Midvale, South Jordan and White City. Steve resides in Sandy with his wife and six children. Steve holds a BS in Accounting and an MBA from the University of Utah and has worked as CPA for many years. He has served as the Chair of the House Revenue and Taxation Committee and is currently the House Chair of the Public Education Appropriations Committee.
Rep. Eliason has passed over 100 bills during his tenure in the Legislature on topics ranging from election reform/security, public safety, education, public health, tax reform and has passed several dozen bills relating to suicide prevention and improving the lives of people with a mental illness.
Rep. Eliason has been recognized for his leadership by numerous organizations for his work on issues important to Utah families including:
Elected Official of the Year – Canyons School District
Legislator of the Year – Utah Association of Public Charter Schools
Friend of the Taxpayer – Utah Taxpayers Association
Public Health Hero – Utah Public Health Association
Executive Award of Merit – Utah Department of Public Safety
Business Champion Award – Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce
Mental Health Champion Legislative Award – Mental Health America
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 1992
Henry Medina
I am a first generation American who believes in:
The Western way of life.
limited government.
maximum freedom.
anti political correctness.
and most importantly,
The constitution of the united states of America.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 2022
Melanie Monestere
Melanie grew up in a small town in Minnesota, where she spent many summer days on the farms owned by aunts and uncles. After graduating from the U of Minnesota, Melanie earned her law degree at the University of Illinois. In law school, she developed a passion for our Constitution and for the legal needs of families. Melanie helped families as a Trusts and Estates attorney for a major firm for 10 years. With their second child on the way, she and her husband Frank, a West Point graduate and Army veteran, made the decision for her to leave law practice and dedicate herself to family. As a mother, Melanie has served in many leadership roles in her school, church, and nonprofit communities. The Covid pandemic and leadership in Washington have brought unprecedented controversy into our education system. Melanie believes the families of Utah deserve leaders who will uphold their values and fight extremism in schools, while reinforcing traditional education requirements. She knows that her faith, strong work ethic, and focus on our Constitutional freedoms is needed to uphold American values for our children, and for future generations. Melanie has two children in school, ages 11 and 13. She has great respect for the hard work of our dedicated teachers and will work for balanced policies that support educators, parents, and students.
Most Recent Republican Party Affiliation Change 2020
Susan Pulsipher
South Jordan has been our family’s home for over 20 years. It has been my privilege to take an active part in the community and serve on many committees and boards, working to fulfil a personal goal to contribute to my community and make the world a better place.
Priorities for Utah:
1. I support conservative budget policies that demonstrate fiscal restraint and limit burdensome regulations. As a Jordan School Board member, I helped reduce school construction costs by over 17%. In the legislature I sponsored legislation to reduce licensure barriers for individuals applying for jobs.
2. Local decision making. I support conservative solutions that respect the governance of cities, schools, and families. I passed legislation to reduce regulations and increase childcare capacity to help parents find care that fits their family’s needs.
3. Support high-quality education. I favor conservative policies that support our great teachers and provide options for families. I sponsored legislation reducing government bureaucracy and costs by reducing the number of reports schools and districts are required to fill out which will allow educators to concentrate on students and improved classroom results. Another bill expanded choices for students in concurrent enrollment.
4. I Collaborate with citizens to create better policy. I worked with residents to pass legislation that protects local property owners from eminent domain. I created policies to help eliminate vaping in schools and strengthen positive behaviors in students. I worked with South Jordan citizens to pass legislation to reduce sex trafficking and protect kids from pornography.
5. Supporting individual liberty is a priority while maintaining our quality of life. I worked with legislators and city leaders on conservative plans to meet our transportation, air quality and water needs.
Belinda Johnson
When I was first asked to run for the Murray City School District Board of Education nearly 12 years ago, I had no idea how much it would change my life and how much I would learn. And until a few weeks ago I never saw myself going further in politics. But here we are! A big opportunity has come my way and I will be running for the Utah House of Representatives in the “new” District 35.
My passion is children and their education. I believe that our school system should prepare children to be capable adults who are ready to be part of the work force and have a positive influence on our community. To succeed students, need the adults in their world to give them the tools they need to learn and grow, and to lead them by example.
Besides education I also feel strongly about supporting our current military, as well as our veterans. These men and women are why we have the freedoms we do today. I also, in recent years, have taken a keen interest in the farmers and ranchers of our state and the challenges they face every day.
Cheryl Acton
Representative Cheryl Acton was born and raised in Kansas before moving to Arizona for her senior year of high school. She lived in northern Denmark for a year as a Rotary Youth Ambassador, then arrived in Utah to begin her freshman year at BYU. Awed by Utah’s scenic beauty and its wonderful people, she takes enormous pride in her adopted home state.
After graduating from BYU with a B.A. in English, Cheryl worked as a law librarian while her husband finished graduate school. She has also worked for the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Defense, where she earned the Meritorious Service Award. She’s been a freelance writer and editor, an independent contractor, an internet researcher, a journalist, and a classroom volunteer, but in her heart, she’s always been a teacher.
Cheryl and her husband, Scott, have occupied the same home in West Jordan for 25 years. Over an 11-year span touching three decades and two millennia (1989-2000), they had two sons and two daughters, the youngest of whom is a senior at USU. As a family, they accomplished the goal of traveling together to all 50 states.
Cheryl seeks conservative solutions to the problems we face. She is a voice for freedom in the House known for her pro-life legislation. Her hobbies include writing, traveling, current events, history, quote collecting, and photography.
Cheryl was motivated to run for office by a desire to restore and preserve freedom, which has been eroding over her lifetime. Cheryl believes in the worth and dignity of individuals and families and their right and ability to govern their own affairs. She also believes that, for the good of the Republic, civility, wit, and wisdom must return to politics.
Representative Acton believes that while other elected titles (senator, governor, etc.) have lost their original meaning, “Representative” is unambiguous. It describes perfectly her role as a voice for the people of District 38.
Michael Lee
Mike learned his love for the Constitution around the family dinner table. Mike’s father, Rex Lee, served as Solicitor General under President Ronald Reagan and later as President of Brigham Young University. As a child, Mike attended his father’s arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court, giving him a unique understanding of the government from an early age. As an attorney he developed a more complete understanding of why the Constitution is essential to the protection of life, liberty, and property.
After graduating from law school in 1997, he served as a law clerk to Judge Dee Benson of the U.S. District Court for the District of Utah. He then clerked for Judge Samuel A. Alito, Jr., who was serving at that time on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit Court in Newark, New Jersey. After his second clerkship, he joined the Washington, D.C. office of Sidley & Austin, where he specialized in appellate and Supreme Court litigation. Several years later, Mike was invited to serve as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Salt Lake City, preparing briefs and arguing cases before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. He served as Governor Huntsman’s General Counsel and then went to Washington for a one-year clerkship with Justice Alito at the U.S. Supreme Court.
Following his clerkship, Mike joined the Salt Lake office of the Washington, D.C.-based law firm of Howrey LLP. Mike has earned a reputation as an outstanding lawyer based on his sound judgment, writing and courtroom advocacy skills, and thorough understanding of the Constitution.
Mike and Sharon have three children and live in Provo, Utah.
Cindy Davis
www.cindydavisforschoolboard.com
Blake D. Moore
A native of Ogden, Blake Moore is an effective conservative dedicated to reflecting Utah’s values in Congress and finding solutions to the challenges facing every American. Prior to Congress, Blake served our country in the intelligence and defense community and helped small businesses as a management consultant. In his first term, he has fought Biden’s failing energy, foreign, and economic policies, delivered for Utah and Hill Air Force Base, and positioned himself for leadership when Republicans win back the majority.
Blake’s wife, Jane, and his four kids motivate him to protect and defend the American Dream.
John Curtis
Congressman John Curtis is arming Republicans with science and solutions to combat extreme and counterproductive climate policies. That’s why, in less than a year, his Conservative Climate Caucus (CCC) has become the second largest caucus in Congress. With his leadership, Republicans are fighting to unleash US energy production and drive down prices. They’re fighting to reinvigorate public lands with livestock grazing. They’re fighting to protect the environment with sensible land management. CCC’s agenda will put the US economy on steroids, establish national and international security, and re-secure US energy dominance and food independence. Those policies are also best for the environment.
Brittany Karzen
Anthony Loubet
Anthony’s father was an immigrant from Mazatlán, Mexico, who helped build Anthony’s childhood home in Moorpark, California, through sweat equity in its construction as part of a Habitat for Humanity-type program. Anthony learned the value of hard work and helping others from his father’s example.
When starting his family, Anthony worked several odd jobs, including pest control, sales, providing financial planning, tax preparation, insurance, and investment services – while also taking college courses at night. After much hard work, he earned an associate degree and later a bachelor’s degree in business management. Anthony went on to earn a law degree from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at Brigham Young University. While in law school, he served as president of the Student Bar Association, class president, and the managing editor of a public law journal and lead editor of an education law journal.
Anthony is currently the Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel for a company based in Utah that supports the needs of intellectually disabled adults. Prior to that, Anthony served as the senior policy advisor for a Salt Lake County Councilmember. Anthony also served as a Deputy County Attorney in the civil division for Utah County, assisting the Board of County Commissioners in drafting and amending county ordinances, negotiating sensible contracts among various cities, governmental entities, and businesses, and advocating for the needs of the people.
Anthony is a lifelong Republican committed to protecting the unalienable, God-given rights of life, liberty, property, and the pursuit of happiness. He has always had a goal to serve those around him and believes that being your representative will allow him to use his skills to help strengthen the people of the west side.
Anthony and his wife Kira live in Kearns, where they are raising their six children.
Jordan Teuscher
Jordan Teuscher grew up in South Jordan, Utah. He attended elementary, middle school, and high school in the Jordan School District. After graduating high school, Jordan enrolled at Brigham Young University. He graduated cum laude with a BA in Political Science/Philosophy. Later, Jordan graduated cum laude from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at BYU. Jordan was admitted to the Utah Bar and US Federal Court bar in 2012 and was nominated and sworn into the United States Supreme Court Bar in 2015.
Beginning with a Church mission in Kyiv, Ukraine, Jordan has gained extensive international experience. In 2007, Jordan co-organized the first jury trial competition in Ukraine. Jordan graduated from the Penn State University Capitals of Europe program in Strasbourg, France, where he was taught by Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito. He later went to work for the Leavitt Institute for International Development, directing international legal reform work in Ukraine, Moldova, and Rwanda.
After graduating from law school, Jordan joined an international law firm where he represented clients in various stages of civil and criminal litigation. Currently, Jordan works for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he negotiates and executes strategic real estate operations and maintenance agreements.
Jordan gained an interest in politics at a very young age. He first served as a State Republican delegate at the age of 17. Since then, he has served many times as a state and county delegate. As an undergraduate student, Jordan served as a legislative intern and was heavily involved in two congressional races and several state races. Jordan was elected to the Utah House of Representatives in 2020.
Jordan is the oldest of 8 children. He met his wife, Aliona, while practicing law in Ukraine. They are the parents of three active children, Tristan (11) and Tanner (9), and Madeleine (6). He and his family love to travel, work together in the yard, and attend sporting events.