Primary Contested Democratic Candidates
COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY
Sim Gill
Sim Gill has served as our Salt Lake County District Attorney since 2010, bringing more than 30 years of experience as a public prosecutor. A first-generation immigrant who grew up in Kearns, Sim is committed to a justice system that works for everyone. Under his leadership, the office has strengthened prosecution of serious crime while advancing evidence-based solutions such as specialty courts, diversion programs, and victim support services. He takes a collaborative, systems-based approach to public safety—partnering with law enforcement, treatment providers, and community organizations to reduce recidivism, support victims, and address the root causes of crime, without compromising public safety.
COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY
Shawn Robinson
Shawn has lived in Salt Lake City for over 30 years. He graduated from Gonzaga School of Law in 1995 and has worked as a trial lawyer for over three decades. He was a partner at Cook, Skeen and Robinson for 25 years, handling commercial litigation, criminal defense, and other matters.
He served as a public defender for multiple Salt Lake County cities for over 20 years and was a prosecutor and assistant city attorney for Clearfield City. He now serves as an Assistant Attorney General prosecuting white collar crimes.
Shawn holds an AV Preeminent rating and has been named Utah Business Legal Elite. He is running to focus on ethics, accountability, and justice.
STATE SENATE DISTICT 13
Silvia Catten
A Utah native, Silvia has advocated for her community for more than a decade. She served six years on the Millcreek Community Council before being elected to Millcreek’s inaugural City Council in 2016. Silvia serves on the Jordan River Commission as Past Chair, and the SSLV Mosquito Abatement District as current Chair. She is most proud of her work with Millcreek Promise helping to implement the Healthy Millcreek Coalition, aimed at improving health outcomes for residents. She is also on the Millcreek Promise Executive Team and serves as City Council Treasurer. Silvia is a mom and small business owner.
STATE SENATE DISTICT 13
Evan Done
Evan Done is a proud South Salt Lake resident and an unapologetic progressive running for Utah Senate District 13. As USARA’s Advocacy Director, Evan fights tirelessly at the Capitol for our most vulnerable neighbors, championing systemic reform grounded in evidence and compassion. Utah needs leaders who are clear about their values and serious about results. Evan knows what it takes to implement real, lasting change and he's ready to bring bold leadership to the Capitol by continuing to fight for social and environmental justice, equitable healthcare, and a government that works for everyone.
STATE SENATE DISTRICT 13
Taylor Paden
Born and raised in Utah, Taylor Paden is a Democratic Socialist and union organizer for CWA 7765 at the University of Utah. He is running a volunteer-led, people-funded campaign to represent District 13 in the Utah Senate where he will fight to build an economy for the 99%, keep ICE out of Utah, and protect and empower workers across the state.
STATE SENATE DISTRICT 14
Tayler Khater
Tayler Khater is an experienced educator and community advocate with more than a decade of service as a teacher and principal. He currently serves as Granite District’s Parent Advocate, supporting students and families across 83 schools in the Salt Lake Valley while collaborating with local leaders to meet community needs. Tayler is running to bring service-driven leadership that puts people first. His priorities include strengthening public education by reducing class sizes, supporting seniors and working families, eliminating income tax on Social Security benefits, expanding access to affordable child care, and advancing science-based solutions to protect public health, the environment, and the Great Salt Lake.
STATE SENATE DISTRICT 14
Stephanie Pitcher
Stephanie Pitcher represents Senate District 14 in the Utah State Senate and is a proven advocate for working families. First elected in 2022 after serving in the Utah House of Representatives, Stephanie has led efforts to improve air quality by cracking down on unlawful vehicle polluters, expand access to childcare, improve water conservation, support public education, reform Utah’s cash bail system, and protect vulnerable communities. She is an attorney focused on protecting constitutional rights and ensuring due process. Stephanie is committed to working across the aisle to move the needle on substantive policy issues and deliver results for her community.
STATE SENATE DISTRICT 19 (MULTI-COUNTY)
Shana Anderson
Shana Anderson is a US Army Veteran, a stay-at-home mom, and an economist. Her experience in the Army prepared her for a life of service, leadership, and putting the missions first. Her role as a mother grounds her in what is most important to all of us – a safe and stable society, clean air, clean water, and a future to look forward to. Her experience as an economist giver her the knowledge necessary to create a prosperous future that works for everyone.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 21
Stephen Otterstrom
I believe the simplest and most effective method of oppression is the failure to fund public programs. Even as the economy grows, our legislature reallocates money to benefit the wealthiest in the state.
Perhaps the strongest example of this is the fact that, as we face the cataclysmic reality of toxic dust storms blowing off the exposed lake bed, the amount the state has committed to saving the lake pales in comparison to what they have committed to building stadiums for billionaire professional sports owners.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 34
Julie Jackson
Julie Jackson and her husband grew up in HD 34, where they raised their four children. She understands our community. A classroom teacher and elected Granite School Board member, she’s worked to reduce class sizes and strengthen support for educators, and has deep knowledge of education policy and funding (accounting for one-fifth of our state budget!). With an MBA from the U of U, Julie manages billion-dollar budgets in Utah’s tech industry, and through the nonprofit Voices for Utah Children, she uses data to advocate for stronger childcare, healthcare, education, and immigration policies for kids.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 34
Erin Jeminson
Erin Jemison is a policy leader, nonprofit manager, and community advocate with more than two decades of experience working in public safety, public health, and effective government. She currently serves as the Director of Public Policy at the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition, where she works with survivors, service providers, and lawmakers to strengthen systems so they are fair and responsive. Raised in a working-class family and shaped by her experience living with Bell’s palsy, Erin has dedicated her career to making sure people who are often overlooked have a voice in the decisions that impact their lives.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 40
Wendy Davis
Dr. Wendy Davis is a champion for the working class and a 20-year resident of the South-Central Valley. Wendy believes leadership is about showing up with bold, progressive energy to challenge a legislature increasingly out of touch with everyday struggles. Committed to a people-first platform, she values accountability over decorum and delivers a voice that truly belongs to the neighborhood. As a former District 40 Chair, previous Utah House candidate, community leader, and D.C. advocate, Wendy brings a record of perseverance, a deep understanding of the systemic challenges facing Utahns, and the determination to fight for what her neighbors deserve.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 40
Andrew Stoddard
Rep. Andrew Stoddard is a proven, effective legislator focused on delivering tangible results for
House District 40. A former Murray City Prosecutor and Midvale Community Council Chair, he
brings a strong record of public service and problem-solving, common-sense solutions. Since
2018, he has passed over 30 laws advancing public safety, clean air, and government
accountability. He believes our community is strongest when we lead with solutions, focused on
improving people’s everyday lives. Known for working with broad coalitions to get things done,
Andrew is committed to pragmatic leadership that reflects Democratic values and delivers
meaningful progress for House District 40.
SALT LAKE SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 5
Sandra Buendia
My name is Sandra Buendia, and I am running for the Salt Lake City School Board,
Precinct 5. I bring 37 years in education, including 27 years serving SLCSD students
and families. My experience across the K–12 system and at the district level gives me a
strong understanding of student needs and how decisions impact schools and the
community. I believe in public education. As a parent and grandparent of SLCSD
students, I am personally invested in our schools. My priorities are to engage students,
involve parents, trust teachers, and support leaders to ensure student success.
SALT LAKE SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 5
Annie Stevens Romano
Annie Stevens Romano is a Salt Lake native and product of the Salt Lake City School District as a 4th generation East High School graduate! Following her college (BA) and graduate education (MPA), Annie worked in K-12 education in both public and public charter schools. Still, the majority of her career has been spent in higher ed at Brigham Young University, the Florence Institute of Design, Cornell University, and the University of Utah. She was appointed in September 2025 and currently serves on the Salt Lake City School board representing Precinct 5. Annie is an active member of the community and the mother to 7 and 9 year old boys who are current students in the SLCSD district.
U.S. Congressional House District 1
Nate Blouin
Utah State Sen. Nate Blouin is the progressive choice in Utah's June congressional primary. Nate has spent his career taking on powerful interests, beating a 36-year incumbent by 50 points and getting called "a punk" by Republican leadership for standing up for working families. He sponsored ICE-out legislation in the State Senate and supports Medicare for All, a Green New Deal, taxing billionaires, ending the genocide in Gaza, and fighting back against Trump's authoritarianism to defend our democracy. Endorsed by Bernie Sanders, the National Association of Letter Carriers, SMART TD Union, and many more! NateForUtah.com
U.S. Congressional House District 1
Michael Farrell
I'm Michael Farrell. I'm a tax attorney, a progressive Democrat, and a first-time candidate for Congress. I grew up in a middle class family in California, went to school in Michigan, and worked in DC, Texas, and Switzerland. I met my wife, a native of SLC, and we've put down roots here. I’m running in Utah's First Congressional District because I will be the progressive champion in Congress that CD-1 deserves and because I have proven throughout my entire life that I can get things done.
U.S. Congressional House District 1
Eva Lopez Chavez
Eva Lopez Chavez is a Salt Lake City Councilwoman, project manager, and lifelong organizer bringing Western grit and bold Democratic leadership to Utah’s First Congressional District. The daughter of working-class Mexican immigrants and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ and Mexican American communities, she made history as the first Mexican American elected to the Salt Lake City Council. She has delivered on housing, supported local businesses, and served residents across every neighborhood. With over a decade of grassroots organizing, she has fought for higher wages, safer communities, and real solutions to homelessness. Eva is running for Congress to ensure every voice is heard and every family has the opportunity to thrive.
U.S. Congressional House District 1
Ben McAdams
Ben McAdams is a former Member of Congress, Salt Lake County Mayor, and Utah State Senator known for standing his ground while building bipartisan solutions. After overperforming the Democratic baseline by 23% in 2018, he represented the most Republican district held by a Democrat and voted to impeach Donald Trump, prioritizing the Constitution over politics. McAdams has championed LGBTQ equality, climate action, public lands, and consumer protection, and supports reproductive freedom, earning a 100% rating from Planned Parenthood. Shaped by a childhood of financial hardship, he advocates for working families and expanded access to health care.
U.S. Congressional House District 1
Liban Mohamed
Born and raised in Utah by Somali immigrant parents, Liban learned early that strong communities are built by people showing up for one another. He served as Utah Government Relations Director at the American Heart Association, advancing life-saving policies like extending postpartum Medicaid coverage and expanding CPR training for students and emergency dispatchers. He later led congressional investigations strategy at TikTok, helping protect over 220,000 American jobs during intense federal scrutiny, before resigning in protest of corporate influence over democratic accountability. Liban is running for Congress to fight for Medicare for All, paid parental leave, big tech accountability, and a government that puts working people first. Learn more at Libanforcongress.com.
U.S. Congressional House District 1
Luis Villarreal
Luis Villarreal is a father, husband, and software engineer. He is the son of two immigrants and worked blue collar jobs theough college. As the only candidate from Salt Lake County’s west side, he brings a voice often overlooked in Utah politics. A democratic socialist, Luis is focused on building an economy that works for everyone—advancing universal healthcare, immigration reform, and stronger unions. He also supports a federal program to build homes and sell them at cost, expanding access to affordable ownership. Luis is running to give working families real representation, stability, and a fair shot at long-term success.
U.S. Congressional House District 4
Jonny Larsen
Born and raised in an SLC trailer park, Jonny Larsen is a Marine combat veteran and Democrat running for Utah's 4th Congressional District. He witnessed the Pentagon attack on 9/11, served in the first Honor Guard in NYC, and deployed twice to Iraq. Rescued by his grandmother after his mother abandoned him, she taught him hard work and self-reliance, and he began working at 12. Never forgetting where he came from, he believes every Utahn deserves affordable healthcare, a home they can buy, better education, wages that let families live instead of working multiple jobs, and real accountability in DC.
Democratic 2026 Candidates
COUNTY COUNCIL AT-LARGE A
Zach Robinson
Zach Robinson is a lifelong Salt Lake County resident, former firefighter and paramedic, and proven public servant running for County Council At-Large. He served two terms on the Sandy City Council, where he earned a reputation for working across differences and delivering results for his community. He is running to bring service-driven, Democratic leadership back to the County Council, focused on lowering the cost of living, protecting our communities' natural spaces, and investing in the programs families rely on, like child care and senior centers. Zach believes in putting people first and tackling tough challenges head-on.
COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 3
Luke Maynes
Luke lives in Midvale, where he serves as Vice Chair of the Community Council. In his professional life, Luke works as a System Analyst and Project Manager, where he rethinks processes, improves efficiency, and builds new features that have saved millions of dollars each year while improving the customer and employee experience. Through his time in scouting, on his mission, and at BYU, Luke developed a lifelong commitment to serving his community. Through his business experience, Luke has developed the skills and demonstrated the ability to improve complex systems. Now, Luke wants to put those skills to work to lower costs for Salt Lake County families.
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COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 5
Sara Cimmers
Sara Cimmers is running for County Council because she refuses to accept a system that leaves people behind. A mother, lifelong Utahn, and community advocate, she knows what it means to juggle the impossible. She’s committed to affordable child care, family and child health, housing security, and government that shows up for people. Sara believes needing support is human, helping each other is a gift, and leaders should stand beside residents, not above them. She’s running to bring a bold, human voice—one that sees you, hears you, and gets to work.
COUNTY AUDITOR
Ali Cloward
Ali Cloward has spent most of her life in Salt Lake County and earned both her undergraduate and master’s degrees in Accounting from the University of Utah. She is a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and currently serves as a Director at a national consulting firm, where she helps organizations strengthen internal controls, improve transparency, and ensure accountability. Known for her integrity and ability to simplify complex issues, Ali brings broad experience across industries. She is a 40 Under 40 honoree and serves on the Board of Clean Slate Utah. Ali is running for Salt Lake County Auditor to provide independent oversight and promote transparent, accountable government.
COUNTY CLERK
Lannie Chapman
Lannie Chapman is running for re-election as the Salt Lake County Clerk to ensure every voice is heard and every vote is protected. As County Clerk, she administers one of the most successful vote-by-mail systems in the country, making voting safe, accessible, and convenient for Salt Lake County residents. Lannie is committed to maintaining high voter turnout and protecting the integrity of our elections. She believes the Clerk’s office should remain rooted in public service, from elections to passports and marriage licenses, serving residents with professionalism, accessibility, and respect.
COUNTY SHERIFF
Rosie Rivera
Sheriff Rosie Rivera has served for thirty-two years in law enforcement, nine years as Sheriff. She currently oversees 1100 employees and manages the largest jail and court security in the State of Utah. She believes in transparency, accountability and Public Trust. She is leading the way in Law Enforcement. She has received many awards throughout her career including, Lawman of the Year Award, Rosa Parks Award, Distinguished Service Award and the YWCA Outstanding Achievement Award for Public Service. Rosie has three adult children and ten grandchildren. She loves her job and enjoys serving her community. Help re-elect Rosie!
STATE SENATE DISTRICT 9
Dr. Jen Plumb
Dr. Jen Plumb is a pediatric emergency physician and Utah State Senator running for reelection to continue serving District 9. First elected in 2022, she serves as Minority Assistant Whip and brings a data-driven, frontline perspective to public policy. Her work focuses on strengthening healthcare access, addressing substance use and overdose, improving child welfare, protecting Utah’s environment, and standing up for targeted and marginalized communities. As co-founder and Medical Director of Utah Naloxone, she has led statewide efforts to prevent overdose deaths. Born and raised in SLC, Dr. Plumb is committed to building healthier, safer communities for ALL Utahns through compassionate, evidence-based leadership.
STATE SENATE DISTRICT 11
Mackenzie Miller
Mackenzie Miller is a Navy veteran and a working parent running for Utah Senate District 11 to fight for working people and their families. After his daughters’ county childcare centers were voted to be closed, he knew it was time to step up and represent working families. As a data analyst with an IT background, Mackenzie has years of experience in finding deficiencies and managing resources to maximize outputs. Mackenzie is committed to putting working people first, restoring the Salt Lake area’s natural environment, addressing the high cost of living, and holding politicians accountable to their constituents.
STATE SENATE DISTRICT 18
A. Dane Anderson
A. Dane Anderson, 31, is a lifelong Utah resident. He has lived with his family in Herriman for the last 7 years. He is an employee of the Utah Housing Corporation, an independent agency of the state government to help provide affordable housing to people in the state, this has led to housing being a passionate issue in his campaign. As a strong believer in fair government for the voters, He believes that no political office should be won in an unopposed race and that is the reason he has joined the race for Utah Senate. Dane is focused on some of the most urgent issues in the state today; Namely, addressing our growing housing shortage, ensuring fair governance for the voters, and addressing the environmental and climate crisis that the rapid depletion of the Great Salt Lake is wreaking upon our home.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 22
Jennifer Dailey-Provost
Jennifer Dailey-Provost has proudly represented House District 22 since 2019, serving as the House Minority Whip for multiple years. By finding common ground and navigating this challenging political climate, she has had the opportunity to pass dozens of pieces of legislation addressing healthcare access for marginalized communities, police reform that protects people in mental health crisis, support for people with disabilities and their families, improving our state’s medical cannabis program, and more. It remains an honor for Jen to serve in the legislature and bring people together to address problems in creative, compassionate ways.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 24
Grant Amjad Miller
Grant Amjad Miller is a Democratic member of the Utah House of Representatives, serving District 24 since 2025. A Utah native and public defender, he has focused his career on criminal justice and legal advocacy for underserved communities. He is the first Palestinian American elected to the Utah Legislature and serves on judiciary and economic development committees, emphasizing justice reform, workforce issues, and community support.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 25
Angela Romero
Representative Angela Romero represents House District 25 in the Utah State Legislature. She is currently Minority Leader where she led the first all-female House leadership team in Utah’s history. Representative Romero is an enrolled member of the Shoshone-Bannock tribes, making her the first Native American to serve in the legislature.
Representative Romero has been a champion for women and children. She works on legislation for victim’s rights, human trafficking, and sexual assault and domestic violence prevention. This past session she was also able to secure $300,000 in on-going funding for the Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault’s Statewide Sexual Assault Helpline.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 26
Michael Finch
Michael and his wife Leisa have lived on the west side of Salt Lake County for 48 years. They have seven children and eighteen grandchildren. Michael owned three successful businesses; all located in West Valley City. Michael and Leisa are in their tenth-year volunteering on the West Valley City Westfest Committee, and Michael is in his fifth year as a volunteer providing citizen oversite of the West Valley City Police Department (PSRB). The rights and needs of our citizens are being stripped away, and Michael will work to keep and restore Dignity, Equality, Respect and Compassion for all.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 27
Liz Oates
Liz Oates is a mother of three, advocate, and changemaker who leads with compassion and action. Liz’s career has been rooted in service, supporting individuals and families across every stage of life, including as a licensed funeral director. She currently works as a health insurance case manager, ensuring fairness for the people she serves. She is also an active board member of The Oquirrh Foundation, focused on preserving open space in and around the Oquirrh Mountains . She is running for House District 27 to give all of our neighbors a real voice at the Capitol, focused on the things that matter: making sure our state is affordable, livable, and welcoming for all of our families.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 30
Jake Fitisemanu Jr.
Jake Fitisemanu is a dedicated public servant and community advocate running for the Utah House of Representatives. A collaborative leader, he brings a commitment to elevating all voices, and a strong record of people-centered service. Jake focuses on practical solutions to improve quality of life, expand opportunity, and ensure everyone has a voice in shaping our state’s future.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 33
Doug Owens
Doug Owens was born and raised in Salt Lake City and graduated from the University of Utah and Yale Law School. He and his wife, Cynthia, have four children and live in Millcreek. Doug brings three decades of legal experience resolving complex commercial, environmental, and employment issues. He is committed to preserving the Great Salt Lake, reducing air pollution, strengthening public education, and keeping public lands accessible. He founded Utah Outdoor Partners, a nonprofit focused on expanding parks, trails, and recreation infrastructure to keep pace with growth and highlight the economic value of public lands.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 39
Drew Howells
Drew Howells is a veteran, policy advocate, and community organizer running for Utah House District 39. After serving in the Air Force and Utah Army National Guard, he helped draft Utah’s Medical Cannabis Act and has spent years advocating for veterans, civil liberties, and transparent government. Drew believes government should focus on solving real problems, strengthening communities, and protecting human dignity. He believes our strength lies in infinite diversity in infinite combinations, and he is running to help build a Utah that is more affordable, more accountable, and prepared for the future—a great big beautiful tomorrow that begins with the choices we make today.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 41
John Arthur
John Arthur is a classroom teacher, public education advocate, and current member of the Utah House of Representatives serving District 41. The 2021 Utah Teacher of the Year and National Finalist, John has spent his career working directly with students, families, and community members, bringing these real-world perspectives to his work at the Capitol. He has been a consistent voice for strong public schools, affordable healthcare, saving the Great Salt Lake, and creating opportunities for everyday Utahns to thrive. Before his election, he was active in local and state Democratic leadership and helped lead efforts to push back against harmful legislation like H.B. 267 in 2025. John is committed to practical solutions that support working families and strengthen Utah communities.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 42
Iva Williams
Iva Williams is a Texas native who has lived in Utah for 10 years. She is a software administrator for a local tech company, and is married with two daughters. She is running for House District 42 because she believes that when people and our local government come together, we can build a greater community for everyone. She is focused on issues that are close to home like open space preservation and a sustainable economy that works for everyone . She’s excited to bring the voices of HD 42 to the Capitol and represent her district with the hope and positive action we deserve.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 43
Ofa Matagi
A West Valley City native, Ofa is the daughter of Tongan immigrants who moved to Utah in the 1970s. Her upbringing and University of Utah studies in Political Science and Ethnic Studies sparked a lifelong passion for justice and equity. A dedicated advocate for her community, she serves as Executive Director of the Utah Pacific Islander Health Coalition. Beyond her professional roles, she is a strong supporter of civic engagement and women in leadership. Ofa lives in Sandy with her husband, Sean, where they look forward to growing their family and continuing their deep-rooted commitment to Utah’s diverse communities.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 44
Jess Birtcher
When he’s not on the campaign trail, Jess embraces the best of our state through hiking, camping, and running. An avid reader and home cook, he values the balance of an active lifestyle and time spent at home working on projects. He recently dug a 10'x15' foot 36" hole for an inground trampoline--he is eager to bounce into the legislature! Jess is ready to bring this homegrown energy to the Capitol to represent every county resident.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 45
Rod Moser
Rod Moser is a lifelong Utahn, husband, father, and business owner running for Utah House District 45. Raised in a working-class family and shaped by Utah’s outdoors and local values, Rod believes in practical solutions, fiscal responsibility, and leadership that answers to people, not politics. He’s focused on protecting what works, fixing what doesn’t, and making sure families can afford to build a stable future right here at home. www.UtahGrit.com
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 46
Braxten Rutherford
Born and raised in the Sandy/Draper area, 35-year-old Braxten Rutherford currently works as a professional freelance writer and teacher at the Waterford School. He is a former youth counselor for high-risk teens in residential treatment, and a former Hogwarts student (operations managing lead) at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood. Last year, he ran as a candidate for Draper city mayor, and received 27% of the vote.
STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 49
Lilian Bowles
Lillian Bowles grew up in south Salt Lake County in an isolated religious community, where poverty and limited opportunity shaped her early life. From a young age, she helped care for her siblings and learned resilience through hardship. Determined to create a better future, she pursued higher education while raising a family as a single mother, earning two associate degrees from Salt Lake Community College and graduating with honors from the University of Utah with a double major in sociology and political science. She built a career in financial services, served on the board of Tapestry Against Polygamy, and advocates for vulnerable families. Lillian is running to strengthen opportunities for all Utahns.
STATE SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 7
James Martin
James Martin is a dedicated educator with 28 years of experience who retired last July to care for his 89-year-old father with dementia. Over his career, he taught grades K–6 and served in leadership roles including assistant principal, principal, principal supervisor, and education specialist at the Utah State Board of Education. A strong advocate for teachers, he represented educators at local, state, and national levels, including as an NEA state director. James has published work on psychological safety and leadership coaching. He has also led Wasatch Theatre Company since 1997 and is a passionate supporter of the arts, equity, and free expression.
STATE SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 5
Sarah Reale
James Martin is a dedicated educator with 28 years of experience who retired last July to care for his 89-year-old father with dementia. Over his career, he taught grades K–6 and served in leadership roles including assistant principal, principal, principal supervisor, and education specialist at the Utah State Board of Education. A strong advocate for teachers, he represented educators at local, state, and national levels, including as an NEA state director. James has published work on psychological safety and leadership coaching. He has also led Wasatch Theatre Company since 1997 and is a passionate supporter of the arts, equity, and free expression.
STATE SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 8
Araueni Olivares
Araueni Olivares is a lifelong public servant, community leader, and advocate for public education. Raised on the west side of the Salt Lake Valley and a product of Granite School District, Araueni understands firsthand the needs of local students and families. As a father of three Utah public school students and a 14-year state employee, Araueni brings both lived experience and knowledge of how policy decisions impact schools, families, and communities. Araueni is committed to strong public schools, trusting our educators, and ensuring every child in Utah feels seen, supported, and prepared for the future.
STATE SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 11
Lacey Peterson
A long-time Utahn, Lacey brings both education and mental health experience to her campaign for State School Board. She holds a B.S. in Health Education and spent several years working as a substitute teacher before earning a Master of Social Work from Rutgers University in New Jersey.
Returning to Utah in 2020, Lacey has since worked as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker therapist with children, teens, and adults. She specializes in trauma and crisis care, understanding firsthand the mental health and systemic challenges facing today’s schools. With family roots in education, she is committed to strengthening public education through inclusive policies, educator support, and student-centered decision-making.
SALT LAKE SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 3
Ashley Anderson
I have been an arts educator and parent in our district for 20 years. I love teaching and I believe strongly in the value of public education, working hard to be a responsive and dedicated representative for Precinct 3. As an artist, I work with students of all ages, including extensive experience teaching students with disabilities. Prior to my school board service, I served in leadership roles on School Community Councils, Parent Teacher Organizations, and on the boards of the Capitol Hill Neighborhood Council, Avenues Baseball, and the Utah Society for Environmental Education, among others. I have long advocated for equitable district and state education policies, supported education unions, supported arts and outdoor learning programs, and continue to collaborate with many amazing families and educators in Precinct 3.
SALT LAKE SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 4
Amanda Finlayson
Amanda has been a proud member of Precinct 4 for nearly 15 years. Her child has thrived in Salt Lake City schools, now attending Bryant Middle School, and Amanda has been actively involved in School Community Councils to support local education. She holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Utah, focusing on school-based social work, and brings over 24 years of experience helping students access learning opportunities. Amanda is a licensed educator and state-certified social worker, currently serving as a School Social Worker in Granite School District, dedicated to supporting students and families. To learn more about Amanda and her campaign, visit her website at afinlayson4slcschools.com.