Congressional District 2 Candidate Replacement
The Utah Democratic Party has received notice from the Lieutenant Governor's office that the Democratic nominee in the 2nd Congressional District has withdrawn from the race. Given this vacancy, the State Central Committee now has the responsibility to select a new candidate to appear on the general election ballot this November.
Any Utah Democrat is welcome to file as a replacement, though all prospective candidates must meet the following constitutional requirements:
At least 25 years old;
A United States citizen for at least 7 years; and
A resident of Utah when elected.
There is also a state filing fee of $485 associated with this office. If you meet these criteria and are interested in representing Democrats in CD-2, please fill out the filing form here.
Filing will be open for two weeks beginning today, May 2nd, and concluding on May 15th at 5:00pm. A list of candidates will be published on the UDP website.
The Utah Democratic Party’s State Central Committee members will convene on May 25th at 10 AM to meet, hear from candidates, and elect a replacement candidate. Candidates will each have 5 minutes to speak, after which Central Committee Members within CD-2 will have two hours to vote in a virtual, ranked-choice election to determine the party’s nominee. The results of this convention will determine the final party nominee and there will be no primary election.
Filed Candidates
Benjamin Coffey
“I’m not submitting myself for this because I want to be a politician; I am submitting myself for this because I believe I can represent Utahns from all walks of life in a way that no one in my life has before. I grew up in an LDS family in West Valley City, living amongst one of the most diverse communities in the state. Growing up lower-middle class, I learned to work hard and value each dollar that I earned. Working two jobs while my wife finished her degree; I earned both my bachelor degree and a four year electrical license. Following two education paths gives me an innate understanding of both college graduates and blue collar workers. I wish to focus on and help all Utahns achieve the lives that they envision for themselves. I believe that as a representative of the people it is our responsibility to open doors and provide opportunities for our constituents instead of passing down restrictions. To me the pursuit of happiness means that all who wish to own a home can do so. Everyone should be able to see a doctor without a fear of bankruptcy. Education of any type should be available to every person of any walk of life. I appreciate the opportunity to step forward and try to make Utah a better place for all of us.”
Nathaniel Woodward
“My name is Nathaniel Woodward, I am a Utah native who grew up and lives in rural Eastern Utah's Coal Country. I am proud of my heritage as the descendant of union coal miners and educators and owe everything I have to their sacrifices. I practice law representing rural residents in nearly any capacity they may need. With small town sensibilities I use my natural aversion to lawsuits to put all my efforts into working out reasonable solutions to disputes between neighbors. Governor Cox has touted a "disagree better" platform from a position where he and his party have all the power, I will work to "disagree better" from a platform that benefits all that come to the table as long as they are honest, trustworthy, and dedicated to the freedom and protection of all Utah residents. I believe in actual solutions to actual problems, not vain nationalism and choreographed patriotism. In Congress I will be a voice for all of Utah and focus on issues that will not only reflect our shared values, but will benefit all people who are affected by federal legislation.”
Darrell Curtis
“Back in 2016, when the Access Hollywood story broke about then candidate Donald Trump, I applauded several congressional and senate leaders that spoke up against Trump. I was impressed that then Representative Chris Stewart said he could not support Trump. I respected him and his decision. I even went ahead and voted for me. It was a mail-in ballot. To my disgust, right before the election, Chris Stewart change his stance. I was angered that I had voted for him. I believe that our representatives must stand for truth and values. That character does matter. I cannot stand by and let this hypocrisy continue. The lies about the 2020 election have driven a wadge in our country. Our country is better than this. We need people as our representative that stand for truth and character. This is bigger than one party, this is for the United States of America. We need representatives to stand up for all of Utah, no matter of their political ideology.”
Charles Free
“Hello, Central committee. First, let me introduce myself. My name is Charles "Chuck" Free I am 60 years old for the last 26 years I have owned and operated a Yellow Cab in Salt Lake County.
My agenda will be.
1. The right for an American female to choose when she will have a child.
2. Our immigration system is broken and it is being followed to the letter of the law. It is up to the legislative branch to fix it.
3. There is a unique opportunity now to reach Republican leaning Independents, and Republicans to the M.A.G.A movements danger to our democratic Republic and to take their medicine to remove the M.A.G.A Movement from American political power.”
Warren Wright
“As an African American combat veteran, I bring a wealth of experience in navigating challenging environments and demonstrating unwavering commitment to noble causes. My transition into the realm of politics marks a new chapter in my journey, driven by a fervent desire to effect meaningful change in our society. I am resolutely dedicated to leveraging my skills, knowledge, and determination to contribute positively to the political landscape. With an unwavering spirit of service, I stand ready to lend my support wherever and whenever it is needed, endeavoring to make a tangible impact on issues that matter most to our communities.”
Schuyler Rhodes
“In a time when politics is drenched in anger and division; in a day when bigotry and hatred are thrust forward as some moral exercise; in a moment when our collective future stands at risk; it's time to rise up for the human values of kindness, compassion and hope. As the sputtering of ideological bickering hides the truth that we are indeed responsible for one another's welfare, it is time to be clear about taking a stand for what is right and good; what is true and filled with promise for our common future. I have spent a lifetime standing for the values of justice and community and I bring this experience to this time and place. Our future depends upon our ability to come together to collaborate, to care and to move forward for the good of all. In Utah there are issues that touch us all and we need to be focusing on them, not taking pot shots at one another. Water, Education, Affordable Housing, Environmental Degradation; all these are equal opportunity challenges. My focus in the coming. months will be to call to our better angels so that we can work together for a better future for every one of us.”
Randy Hopkins
I am very interested in representing the Democratic party as the candidate for Utah’s 2nd congressional district. My passion for and understanding of contemporary issues is evidenced by my previous efforts to secure this office in 2018 and 2020.
I’m not naïve enough to believe that this is an easy race for our party to win. The gerrymandering of the congressional districts (especially splitting up Salt Lake County) by the Utah legislature is a travesty. But I’m confident that many Republican- leaning independent voters, disgusted with Donald Trump, are now willing to consider a Democratic candidate.
The Democratic party is a big tent that welcomes different ideas for solving modern problems. Yet the core values of decency, respect for the dignity of all people and the idea that government has a role to play in alleviating suffering and improving the lives of individuals cannot be compromised. These are universal principles that resonate with thinking people of varied political persuasions.
Having lived in Utah most of my life I understand the culture and some of the unfounded misconceptions and biases towards our party. A qualified candidate with unique life experiences can have a major impact in changing people’s negative beliefs.
The issues I feel strongly about should transcend all ages, genders, political and religious views. These include climate change, protecting public lands, affordable health care, saving Social Security and Medicare, and safeguarding health care for women without government interference.
I look forward to this opportunity.
Garret Rushforth
“My name is Garret Rushforth.
I am sure there are a thousand things that I could write to try to convince and cajole you to select me as the candidate for House District 2.
But here is the truth: I’m tired. I’m tired of waiting for our politicians to do what they have promised in this state. I’m tired of the elected officials who misrepresent us at the federal level. I’m tired of waiting and hoping that someone will swing out of the sky and save us.
So, it’s time for me to step up.
I'm a teacher. I teach social studies and theater, and there is no one more versed in the volatility of education today. There is no one more aware of the crises that we face as a state and a nation. And there is no one more aware of the importance of unwavering empathy in the face of what the world throws at people every day.
I’ve lived in Utah my entire life. I have worked in many industries, and I know the labor that goes into creating a place like this. I’ve learned to love the labor. And I’ve learned to love people.
Lastly, I am a human. I participate in this existence just as deeply as anyone else. I have been given the chance to make life easier for those who do not have the luxury of reaching beyond their means.
I do not take that for granted.
Thank you.”