On the Issues
Experience That Produces Real Results
Doug’s experience as an elected official at the local level (Payson City Council for 5 years and State Representative), President of the Utah Association of Japanese Teachers, President of the Utah Debate Coaches Association and more speak to his ability to work well with others across a wide range of issues. He worked in sales until I was 30 years old and is familiar with the budget process, working with stakeholders, staying in conversation to find the best solutions. He has the experience that produces real results for our communities.
Energy Independence
The US has the resources to be energy independent. Utah also has tremendous amounts of natural resources. Unfortunately, California and others have done their best to shut down coal, oil, and natural gas production.
Doug has voted to protect the ability to use the natural resources found in Utah. He supports technological advances but not at the cost of the government picking winners and losers.
In addition to opening access to Utah’s fossil fuels, he promotes policies to support innovation and have an all-of-the-above energy policy that ensures our energy independence.
Supporting Our Parents, Students, and Teachers
Doug has worked as an educator for the past 16 years, partnering with students and parents to help educate the next generation of Utahns. Education truly works best with parents, educators, and students all working together.
Doug supports choice in education and appreciates and backs the great work being done in charter, traditional public, private, and homeschool education. He supports innovation and solutions to provide the best education possible to our youth.
Doug has worked to ensure the largest pay increase for teachers in Utah history, helped enhance the opportunities available to Utah students, and produced productive dialogue that both addresses concerns and respects educators.
Protecting the Second Amendment
Doug is a strong supporter of Second Amendment rights of Utahns. The Founders were inspired in their inclusion of the ‘right to bear arms’ in the Bill of Rights. The right to protect our families and country should not be infringed upon.
Doug voted for constitutional carry as a representative. As a member of the Payson City Council, he worked to create the Civilian Marksmanship Program to build a markmanship park and gun range right here in District 65.
Fairness in Athletics
Doug recognizes that men and women have inherent differences and opposes efforts that would compromise safety and opportunities for our youth. In 2021, he voted for HB302 which banned biological boys from competing in girls sports.
Doug has sympathy and concern for transgender youth, but does not believe taking away opportunities from biological girls in sports is the answer. He is a voice of empathy AND common-sense.
Fiscal Responsibility
Utah continues to rank as one of the best economies in the country! Our low unemployment rates and high growth rates continue to lead the way. This speaks to the industrious nature of Utahns, the government staying out of the way, and our conservative culture.
Doug has voted for the largest tax cut in state history, worked to balance the budget every year, and supports legislation consistently to identify and cut red tape that impacts Utah’s small businesses.
Proactive Local Partnership
As a state representative, Doug recognizes that productive local partnership is key to a successful legislative tenure. He has worked with local leaders, earning their endorsement for his re-election. In particular, he has played a leading role to help deliver over $105 million of infrastructure funding to South Utah County, including improvements for I-15 and Payson Main Street.