The Legislative Briefcase

On January 10, the Salt Lake Tribune published a story on Utah lawmakers campaign account spending. In the article, the Tribune pointed out a disclosure I made in 2018 to purchase a briefcase with my campaign account funds.

The article mentioned I use it only for my legislative work, which is true. During the session, I carry a computer, an iPad, multiple documents related to legislation for committees, floor time meetings, etc. The briefcase helps me stay organized and have everything with me as I work at various Capitol complex locations.

With full transparency in mind, when I initially made that disclosure, people from the Lt. Governor’s office who manage and oversee campaign donations and spending contacted me about it. They were rightfully checking to make sure it was not a personal item. When I explained why I purchased it and how I was using it, they indicated that the expenditure was ok.

We do have guidelines on contributions and spending, by which I strive to abide. A small number of times, I’ve made minor errors in my disclosure requiring correction. For example, I paid a fine in the past when I recorded a campaign donation improperly. I had unintentionally recorded it outside the timeframe required for donations.

I use campaign funds to pay for campaign and election items and expenses, communications and activities or events for constituents, gifts of appreciation at the end of the session for my intern, office supplies and equipment related to my campaign and legislative work, donations to appropriate organizations and other candidates, and other items related to my responsibilities as a legislator.

Alongside the personal funds I have contributed, I’ve been fortunate in receiving donations from constituents and supporters to my campaign.  I am grateful for these donations. I work to appropriately and responsibly use the funds for their intended purpose.

If you have questions regarding my campaign fund or spending, please contact me anytime to discuss. My disclosure is public online and readily available to view at any time.

January 10, 2021