Sanpete County

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I am running for Vice Chair of the Utah Democratic Party because I believe in a future where rural communities like Sanpete County are not left behind. 

As Vice Chair, I will focus on two primary responsibilities:

1. 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.
2. Electing More      Democrats – Strengthening our party’s presence at all levels, from local      offices to statewide and federal seats, ensuring that communities like Sanpete have a voice in policy decisions.
3. 
   

I am an economist and a business leader. My leadership has been recognized in Utah and across the United States. I brought more than $30million in state and federal grants to Utah’s manufacturers for growth and workforce development and I am proud to say that in 2024 Utah was ranked #1 for the growth in manufacturing jobs.

Protecting Voting Rights in Rural Utah: A Call to Action

In Sanpete County and across Utah, we cherish our democracy and the right of every citizen to vote. However, recent legislative changes threaten to make that right harder to exercise—particularly for rural voters who rely on mail-in ballots to participate in elections.

The Utah Legislature recently passed House Bill 92 (HB 92), a measure that eliminates universal mail-in voting and requires voters to proactively request a mail-in ballot rather than receiving one automatically. This change disproportionately impacts rural communities like ours, where long distances to polling places and limited in-person voting options make mail-in voting a necessity, not just a convenience.

For years, mail-in voting has provided a secure and accessible way for rural voters, the elderly, working families, and those with disabilities to make their voices heard. Moving away from this system places unnecessary barriers between voters and the ballot box, reducing turnout and weakening our democracy.

Why This Matters for Sanpete County

Sanpete County is built on the principles of civic engagement, community, and fairness. Our residents deserve an election system that supports, not suppresses, participation. The new voting restrictions add confusion and additional steps that could deter people from voting—especially those who are unaware of the new process or lack reliable access to online ballot requests.

This change also raises concerns about election security and accessibility. With fewer mail-in ballots and limited rural polling locations, long lines, logistical challenges, and potential disenfranchisement become real threats to our electoral process.

Other Critical Issues Facing Sanpete County

While protecting voting rights is a top priority, there are several other pressing issues that impact our community:

1. Rural Economic Development

• Diversifying the local economy beyond agriculture and small businesses.
• Attracting new  industries, such as manufacturing, while maintaining the county’s rural  character.
• Supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs with better infrastructure and  resources.

2. Education Funding & Access

• Ensuring  adequate funding for rural schools.
• Retaining  teachers in small communities by offering competitive salaries and  incentives.
• Expanding  skills based training  opportunities in the region.

3. Water Rights & Conservation

• Addressing  drought concerns and water shortages that affect farmers and ranchers.
• Managing water resources fairly between agricultural, residential, and industrial needs.
• Advocating for smart water policies at the state level.

4. Healthcare Access & Affordability

• Expanding  healthcare services in rural areas, including mental health support.
• Keeping local hospitals and clinics funded and staffed.
• Improving access to telemedicine and emergency care.

5. Public Lands & Environmental Conservation

• Balancing land  use between conservation, recreation, and economic development.
• Addressing  concerns over federal land management policies affecting local industries.
• Supporting  sustainable farming and ranching practices.

6. Infrastructure & Transportation

• Improving roads, broadband internet, and public transportation in rural communities.
• Expanding broadband access to ensure economic and educational growth.
• Investing in renewable energy sources, like solar and wind, to create jobs.

Call to Action

I am asking for your vote at the Utah Democratic Party Convention on May 31, 2025.