Dear Democratic Friends and Supporters,
Welcome to the February edition of our Democratic newsletter! As we dive into the heart of 2024, we can feel the energy and excitement building as we gear up for the kick off to election season. February is not just a month on the calendar; it's a launching pad for the vibrant campaign season that lies ahead!
The journey begins with Caucus night 3/05, a cornerstone event where engaged citizens gather to discuss, debate, and participate in the democratic process. This is the grassroots foundation of our party, and we encourage every Democrat to join us in shaping the future of our community (and bring a friend).
But the excitement doesn't stop there! Get ready to unleash your political spirit at Politisauce 3/25, our much-anticipated and wildly entertaining fundraiser. It's not just a night of speeches and handshakes; this year will bring a night of fun and maybe a couple of surprises!
Following the festivities, we set our sights on the Salt Lake County Convention 3/30 at Brighton High School, a crucial gathering where dedicated delegates will play a pivotal role in selecting candidates for contested races. It's a moment of unity, diversity, and collective decision-making that exemplifies the strength of our Salt Lake County Democratic community.
Read on for more details about all the exciting things happening this month…
Heartfelt Thanks to Our Utah House and Senate Minority Caucuses
As the legislative session concludes, we extend heartfelt thanks to the Utah House and Senate Minority Caucuses for their unwavering dedication. Your tireless efforts in representing the people have not gone unnoticed. Thank you for upholding shared values and advocating for Utahns. Your strategic approaches have strengthened our democratic process. Your sacrifices and victories achieved make us proud to have such dedicated representatives in the Utah House and Senate Minority Caucuses.
Politisauce: A Fun Night Full of Surprises
Get ready for the gala of the year – Politisauce is back and bigger than ever! Join us for an unforgettable night filled with awards, a dazzling silent auction, surprise guest speakers, and a few extra surprises up our sleeves!
Witness outstanding individuals in our community being honored with awards for their dedication and contributions. It's a celebration of excellence and a testament to the strength of our Democratic family!
Dive into the excitement of our silent auction, where you'll find treasures and experiences that not only make your night unforgettable but also support the causes we hold dear.
Brace yourself for some jaw-dropping moments with surprise guest speakers that will inspire, motivate, and make this night truly special.
Come with your friends, grab your tickets, and let's make Politisauce 2024 the talk of the town!
Tickets will be made available shortly. Expect an email once they are released and buy yours quickly before they run out!
Join us at Convention at Brighton High School 3/30
Love is in the air at Convention! Did you know? We've got not one, but TWO confirmed cases of people finding their significant others at our convention! This year, join us at Brighton High School for a day of democratic magic, and who knows, you might just meet your political soulmate!
Convention is more than just politics – it's a chance to connect, share stories, and hear from candidates running all over Salt Lake County.
So, whether you're a seasoned delegate or a first-timer, come be a part of the democratic process, learn about how you can get involved, and who knows, you might leave with more than just a vote in your hand! Bring a pal, spread the word, and let's make Convention 2024 a day to remember! #ConventionLoveStories #DemocracyAndRomance #BrightonHighMagic #GetInvolvedAndGetRomanti
Intern Spotlights
Hello! My name is Harleen Kaur Saini, and I am a first-year student at the University of Utah studying Quantitative Economics and Political Science.
Q: What first motivated you to be involved in Democratic politics?
A: My beliefs have always aligned with Democratic politics; however, my experience volunteering with organizations like the Road Home, Red Cross, and Utah Food Bank has exposed me to the myriad of obstacles members of our community face. When I started getting involved in the community, I became more motivated to fight for social justice.
Q: What's an interesting hobby that you have?
A: I love reading all genres of books, and I hope to have a dedicated library in my future home!
Q: What's your favorite part of interning with the Salt Lake County Democratic Party?
A: My favorite part of interning with the Salt Lake County Democratic Party is meeting all the amazing people! I am a social butterfly and love getting to know people and their stories. I have learned so much from them and am very grateful for everything they have done!
Hi everyone! My name is Ethan Hepworth, and I am a second-year studying Political Science at the University of Utah.
Q: What first motivated you to be involved in Democratic politics?
A: I got involved in Democratic politics back in 2020 when I did some canvassing for the Elizabeth Warren Presidential Campaign and later some phone banking for the Ben McAdams Congressional Campaign. Ever since I started following politics, I have been motivated to elect leaders with Democratic values to office. I love being able to contribute to that goal through this internship.
Q: What's an interesting hobby that you have?
A: One hobby that I pursue is singing. I have sung in a choir since eighth grade and continue to sing in the University of Utah Chamber Choir today.
Q: What's your favorite part of interning with the Salt Lake County Democratic Party?
A: My favorite part of interning with the Salt Lake County Democratic Party is seeing the excellent community that can form around political engagement. I have loved getting to meet highly engaged community members and seeing just how much passion is out there for Democratic candidates. You all do so much work for the community and it is truly inspiring.
Welcome Lisa Petersen, Chief Legal Counsel
Lisa R. Petersen is Salt Lake City attorney in private practice, specializing in employment law and litigation, representing mostly mid-size Utah companies. She is a partner with the law firm of Cohne Kinghorn, PC, and has been practicing law since 1996. She went to the University of Utah for both undergraduate studies and law school, where she served as President of the College Democrats (her friends called her “LTD,” short for “Lisa the Democrat”). She interned for both Karen Shepherd in the Utah State Senate and Wayne Owens in the United States House of Representatives. Between college and law school, she was the first Executive Director of Utahns for Choice, which is now Planned Parenthood Action Counsel. She is currently outside counsel for Planned Parenthood Association of Utah. Lisa is also the mother of four amazing children and is married to her law partner, Stephen T. Hester. She loves running, anything her kids are into, and spending time with her family in Teasdale, Utah.
We’d also like to extend our sincere gratitude to Jiro Johnson, our former Chief Legal Counsel. Jiro's dedication and expertise have been invaluable in supporting the Salt Lake County Democratic Party. His impactful and wise advice has set a high standard and we wish him great success in his future endeavors! THANK YOU JIRO!
In Closing…
As we embark on this 2024 campaign season together, let's celebrate the power of our shared values, the diversity of our perspectives, and the strength of our unity. February is not just a month; it's a declaration of our commitment to a better future. Join us, engage with us, and let's make this campaign season one for the history books.
Jade Velazquez
Chairman of the Salt Lake County Democratic Party