San Juan County - March 9, 2025 Virtual
Dear Members of the San Juan County Democratic Party,
It is an honor to address you today at this pivotal juncture for your community. San Juan County, with its rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and histories, stands at the crossroads of tradition and progress. As you gather, it's imperative to reflect upon the pressing issues that shape the lives of your residents and chart a course toward a prosperous and inclusive future.
As Vice Chair of the Utah Democratic Party (UDP), I have two primary roles: first, to represent Utah at the National Democratic Committee (DNC), ensuring that your voices and concerns are heard at the national level; and second, to work toward electing more Democrats to all levels of office in Utah. But before addressing how we can build Democratic strength in the state.
I am proud to say that working alongside the Biden Administration I won grants from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Economic Development Administration related to critical materials in eastern Utah. Under these Biden grants, I worked with Commissioner Silva Stubbs, and the other San Juan Commissioners, to advocated for environmental and cultural approaches to the extraction of critical materials, including social licensing.
Specifically, I brought federal funding to San Juan County:
1. Identified the rich critical materials that are in SJC
2. Information sessions in Monticello and Blanding to support small business
3. Developed with USU-Blanding educational programs to further understanding critical materials
4. Programs to protect Indigenous Rights
I would like to review what I see as the top policy issues the UDP needs to address for San Juan County.
Voting Rights and Mail-In Voting in Utah
Utah has been recognized for its universal mail-in voting system, which has contributed to high voter participation across the state, including in rural areas like San Juan County. However, recent legislative developments may alter this landscape.
For rural communities like San Juan County, mail-in voting has been a vital tool in mitigating challenges such as long distances to polling stations and limited transportation options. Changes to this system could disproportionately impact San Juan County, making it more difficult for residents to participate in elections.
As Vice Chair I will fight to make sure your vote is counted.
Demographic Shifts and Population Decline
San Juan County is Utah’s largest by land but faces declining population—down 5% per recent census data. With 60% federal land and 25% tribal land, only 15% of the land is left. San Juan County has the highest poverty rate in the entire state. San Juan County needs targeted economic policies.
As an Economist, as Vice Chair I will advocate for bold strategies to drive investment, create jobs, and communicate how Democratic leadership can deliver economic stability.
Education & Workforce Development
The expansion of Utah State University’s Monument Valley campus on Navajo Nation land is a model for bridging educational gaps. I worked with USU-Blanding to develop a curriculum on understanding the economics of critical materials for High School 4H programs in San Juan.
As Vice Chair I will stay vigilant on policies affecting public education and workforce development, ensuring equitable access to opportunity for all San Juan County residents.
Protecting Indigenous Rights
Reports of Indigenous individuals being questioned by immigration officers are deeply concerning. Tribal nations are urging citizens to carry ID at all times. Democrats must take a stand—ensuring Indigenous rights are upheld, sovereignty is respected, and federal enforcement is fair and just.
As Vice Chair, I will stand up for these rights at the National Dem Party.
Healthcare & Medicaid
Potential Medicaid cuts threaten rural healthcare access. In areas with limited medical facilities, Medicaid is a lifeline.
As Vice Chair I will fight to preserve and expand these essential services at both the National and State levels.
Cultural Preservation & Land Management
Bears Ears National Monument is both a sacred site and an economic driver, yet federal policies keep shifting.
As Vice Chair I will strive to strike a balance between conservation and community needs, ensuring all stakeholders—Indigenous leaders, residents, and environmental advocates—are heard in land management decisions.
Land Use & Zoning
Proposed updates to the county’s land use ordinance have sparked debate. While modernizing outdated policies is necessary, changes must respect property rights and preserve the character of communities like Spanish Valley.
As Vice Chair, I will ensure that inclusive dialogue continues.
Why I Am the Right Choice for Vice Chair
With a background in economics and public policy, I bring both analytical expertise and real-world experience in economic development, environmental stewardship, and community advocacy. I have worked extensively with federal agencies, universities, and local organizations to drive meaningful policy change. My ability to navigate complex policy landscapes and build coalitions makes me uniquely qualified to be Utah’s voice on the national stage and strengthen our party’s presence across the state. While I am new to Utah and I don’t have the history as to how UDP got to where it is today, I know how to lead the party for the future.
I am honored to seek your support and ask for your vote at the Utah Democratic Party Convention on May 31. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive Utah—one that represents all Utah communities.