[top]Mr. Grover's voting record was the biggest factor in my decision. For example:
* The vast majority of our families rely on public schools for formal education. In a seriously underfunded system, it doesn't make sense to send public dollars to private schools. Mr. Grover voted for voucher legislation that passed the house by one vote.
* Utah has three of the 15 cities identified as having the worst air quality in the nation. This, along with the rising cost of gasoline, is good reason to offer drivers incentives to move to more fuel efficient cars. Mr. Grover voted against it when it was introduced. He also voted against the bill that would prohibit school busses from idling on duty. Both of these bills, which passed, help to conserve gasoline and lessen air pollution.
* There have been other bills on which I would have voted differently from Mr. Grover, but just as important are the bills that I would have liked to see, and did not. I would like to have seen legislation on health care reform. I would like to have seen legislation on ethics reform as well.The Utah legislature is practically a one-party system that carries with it the attitude: "Get in line with us, or be left out." Independent voices are sorely needed. I want to speak up for the concerns of the voters.
District 61 includes much of the west side of Provo, the southwest corner of Orem, the narrow strip of Orem west of I-15, and Vineyard. The Utah State Legislature Website has a a map, although it can be difficult to see the boundaries. If you know your voting precinct, District 61 is comprised of the following precincts: Provo 13, 15, 18-25, 27, 28, 31; Orem 13, 34, 42, 47; Lakeview 1; and Vineyard 1.[top]
I looked closely at the Utah County Democratic Platform and felt very much at home. Please note that I said Utah County Platform. It stands apart from the platform of the National Democratic Party. Although the Republicans try to tie these entities together, as they may well be tied in their own party, the Democrats manage to maintain independence from any obligations to support their party's state or national platforms. This independence was central to my decision to run.[top]
[top]There were many factors that went into my decision to run.
The controversy over education vouchers drew my attention to the actions of the Legislature. I found myself frustrated by their arrogance, the influence of big business, and their dismissive attitude toward ethics reform.
I wasn't the only one frustrated. Several people that I knew and respected felt the same way and chose to run for public office as Democrats as well
Support of family and close friends clinched my decision. I am not running to merely make a statement. I am running to affect change for the sake of our community in the Utah State Legislature.
Absolutely. The option to vote a straight party ticket in a general election, without so much as looking at the names of the individual candidates, is a disservice to democracy. Voters who thoughtfully consider each candidate are reaffirming their right to think and choose the representatives who act for them. Study the issues and the candidates. Watch for your sample ballot in the mail and vote for the candidates on Election Day by name.[top]
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