Grand County
Grand County, Utah—a region of unparalleled natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a community that embodies resilience and determination. Our discussions today must focus on the key challenges and opportunities that will shape the future of Grand County and its residents.
I am running for Vice Chair of the Utah Democratic Party because I believe in a future where rural communities like Carbon County are not left behind. As Vice Chair, I will focus on two primary responsibilities:
- National Representation – Ensuring that Utah’s concerns are heard at the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and working with national leaders to bring resources and support to our state.
- Electing More Democrats – Strengthening our party’s presence at all levels, from local offices to statewide and federal seats, ensuring that communities like Carbon County have a voice in policy decisions.
Please take a look at my 6-point roadmap to address the key issues facing our Party.
Throughout my career, I have worked alongside the Biden Administration to secure funding from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Economic Development Administration, advocating for critical materials exploration and workforce development initiatives that benefit rural communities like Grand County. My efforts include:
✅ Securing funding to identify and develop Critical Materials in the region and advocating for sustainable practices that protect the environment and prioritize worker safety.
✅ Partnering with Utah State University-Blanding to expand understanding of Critical Materials.
✅ Helping local companies secure state grants under the Manufacturing Modernization Grant Program.
✅ Collaborating with the Southeastern Utah Association of Local Governments to develop a mentoring program for entrepreneurs in manufacturing.
✅ Promoting Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) to improve business opportunities, medical access, and tourism.
These strategic investments have strengthened rural economies in Grand County and beyond—and as Vice Chair I will continue to ensure that our communities remain a priority.
Voting Rights & Mail-In Ballots
Utah’s vote-by-mail system has increased voter participation, especially in rural areas like Grand County. However, new legislation threatens this progress, requiring voters to opt in for mail-in ballots and include ID verification starting in 2026. These changes could disproportionately impact Grand County’s residents, particularly seniors and working families.
As Vice Chair, I will fight for voting access and protect rural communities from laws that suppress voter participation.
Access to Health Care
Cuts to Medicare and Medicaid would devastate rural healthcare access. Many areas in Grand County already lack sufficient hospitals and clinics.
To combat this challenge, I am working on Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)—introducing electric aircraft for medical transport. This innovative approach would connect Grand County residents to critical care hospitals in urban centers, ensuring faster and more reliable healthcare access.
As Vice Chair, I will advocate at both the state and national levels to preserve Medicare and Medicaid funding for Grand County.
Economic Development and Diversification
Grand County's economy has long been anchored by tourism, drawing visitors from around the globe to marvel at Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. In 2022, the county's population reached approximately 9,680, with a median household income of $59,171—a notable increase from the previous year. However, an overreliance on tourism renders the local economy vulnerable to external shocks, such as economic downturns or global pandemics.
To fortify economic resilience, we must advocate for diversification strategies that include:
· Promoting Sustainable Industries: Encouraging the growth of sectors like renewable energy, agriculture, and technology can provide stable employment opportunities and reduce dependence on seasonal tourism. As Vice Chair, I will work to foster partnerships that bring new industries to Grand County, ensuring sustainable economic growth.
· Supporting Local Entrepreneurship: Investing in small businesses and startups fosters innovation and keeps economic benefits within the community. As Vice Chair, I will champion policies that provide funding and resources to small business owners to help them thrive.
· Enhancing Workforce Development: Collaborating with educational institutions to offer training programs aligned with emerging industries ensures that residents are equipped with relevant skills. As Vice Chair, I will advocate for workforce development programs that prepare our residents for high-quality, well-paying jobs.
Environmental Conservation and Public Lands
Grand County's landscapes are not only vital to its identity but also to its economy. Recent discussions at the federal level about redrawing national monument boundaries, such as Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante, have raised concerns among conservationists and local communities. Protecting these public lands is essential for preserving biodiversity, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities.
Our commitment should include:
· Advocating for Federal Protections: Ensuring that national monuments and public lands remain safeguarded against activities that could compromise their integrity. As Vice Chair, I will advocate for strong federal protections and work with legislators to maintain our public lands.
· Promoting Sustainable Tourism: Implementing practices that minimize environmental impact while enhancing visitor experiences. As Vice Chair, I will support initiatives that balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.
· Engaging Indigenous Communities: Recognizing and integrating the knowledge and rights of Native American tribes in land management decisions. As Vice Chair, I will work to strengthen partnerships with Indigenous communities to ensure their voices are heard in land conservation efforts.
Call to Action
Grand County stands at a pivotal juncture, where the decisions we make today will resonate for generations. By focusing on economic diversification, affordable housing, environmental conservation, sustainable water management, and fiscal transparency, we can pave the way for a prosperous and equitable future.
As Vice Chair, I will be committed to working collaboratively with our community to enact these necessary changes and uphold the values that define us as Democrats and as stewards of this remarkable region.
I am asking for your vote on May 31 at the Utah Democratic Party Convention.