I am a proud Democrat and have never been affiliated with any other party. However, within the Democratic Party, I align as a progressive, democratic socialist.

Democratic socialism is about making the economy work for the people who keep running it. Fair wages, protecting workers, affordable healthcare, and strong public education is its foundation.

For decades, the term “democratic socialism” has been turned into a scare word through political propaganda, used to make people think it means authoritarian government or taking away freedoms. That’s never been what it is. The truth is, many of the programs Americans rely on and support every day, such as Social Security, Medicare, public schools, and labor protections are rooted in the same belief that government should serve the public good. The label has been weaponized to create fear, but when you strip away the rhetoric, it’s about fairness, dignity, and making sure everyone has a real shot at a good life.

My family and I moved to Syracuse in 2014 from Weber County. We are proud to call this district home!

Absolutely. 100%

Utah is currently leaning purple, and many, many people in district 14 either identify as democratic socialist or are tired of the status quo—let alone in other parts of the state. We must stop believing that only candidates with an ‘R’ next to their name are electable. If you want wide-spread systemic change, then vote for candidates that will spearhead that change.

I am running because I’m not a fan uncontested races. We voters deserve a choice.

Because no one else was going to be on the ballot.

There are many qualified Democrats, I just happened to be the one who threw my hat in the ring.

Not all Democrats are anti-gun. I am in favor of dramatic and drastic gun control laws, along with 78% of the American people.

I am however, a Gun Safe Candidate as selected by Moms Demand Action, promoting gun safety.

Great question. Here is a breakdown.

Economy

Brandon Young

• Supports raising wages to match Utah’s cost of living.

• Pro-union and collective bargaining protections.

• Supports rent stabilization, tenant protections, and limits on corporate housing speculation.

• Wants tax relief on essentials like food and hygiene products.

John Taylor

• Frames economic issues around “freedom” and constitutional conservatism.

• No detailed wage, housing, or healthcare affordability proposals publicly listed.

• Focuses more on preserving traditional economic principles than restructuring them.

Healthcare

Brandon Young

• Treats healthcare as a human right.

• Supports Medicaid expansion, lowering prescription costs, hospital transparency, and medical debt reform.

• Supports groundwork for universal care.

John Taylor

• No healthcare policy specifics listed.

• General conservative emphasis on limited government and constitutional principles.

Education

Brandon Young

• Strong public school defender.

• Opposes vouchers and privatization.

• Supports smaller class sizes, teacher support, Title I protections, and expanded inclusivity in schools.

• Advocates comprehensive sex education.

John Taylor

• No detailed education platform listed.

• Likely aligns with broader Republican “school choice” and traditional curriculum priorities, but not explicitly stated on-site.

Environment

Brandon Young

• Makes environmental policy a top-three issue.

• Prioritizes Great Salt Lake preservation.

• Focuses on air quality, water sustainability, and oversight of AI/nuclear infrastructure expansion.

John Taylor

• No environmental platform listed.

• Messaging centers on growth, prosperity, and defending freedoms.

Core Philosophy

Brandon Young

• “Protect rights, not privilege.”

• Frames government as a tool to correct inequality and serve working families.

• Progressive/Democratic Socialist approach emphasizing reform.

John Taylor

• “Trusted Conservative Voice for common sense solutions.”

• Frames government as protector of faith, family, and constitutional freedoms.

• Traditional Republican/conservative approach emphasizing preservation.