2026 Candidates

Candidates for Office

The following candidates have agreed with all areas of the Davis County Republican Party Platform

County Clerk
Brian McKenzie

Brian McKenzie
County Clerk
Email: info@votebrianmckenzie.com
Phone: (801) 540-5852
A dedicated public servant with over two decades of experience in election administration and county records.
I currently serve as the Davis County Clerk. My career is defined by a deep commitment to election security and accessibility, government record preservation and transparency, and excellence in public service and accountability.
I hold a Certified Election Registration Administrator (CERA) designation through Auburn University and the Election Center as well as the Olene Walker Vote Certification through Weber State University
Beyond elections, I bring extensive experience in records management, data privacy, marriage licensing, passport processing and administrative support for the County Commission.
My extensive hands-on experience ensures I am ready to continue serving as your County Clerk.
Jona Whitesides

Jona Whitesides
County Clerk
Email: jona@jonaforclerk.com
Phone: (801) 834-1954
I am running for Davis County Clerk to strengthen transparency, accountability, and public trust in elections and public records. My career has focused on managing complex public systems where accuracy, documentation, and lawful processes matter.
I currently serve as a spokesperson at Rocky Mountain Power and previously worked as an emergency manager, coordinating response efforts and public communications during emergencies. Before that, I spent nearly 18 years with the Utah Division of Emergency Management, including over six years as a Bureau Chief and member of senior leadership.
My background includes financial management, grant oversight, audits, and legislative coordination, reinforcing the importance of clear authority, proper documentation, and accountability to the public. I believe the County Clerk’s Office must operate within Utah law and serve voters with professionalism and transparency.

County Sheriff
Jon Atkin

Jon Atkin
County Sheriff
Email: atkin4sheriff@gmail.com
Phone: 801 885-8139
Jon Atkin has lived in Davis County for more than 25 years and serves with the Davis County Sheriff’s Office. The youngest of six children, he and his wife, Sara (Skousen), chose Davis County to raise their four kids. Having lived in several states and abroad, Jon is confident Davis County is the best place to raise a family. He attended Clearfield High, North Ridge High, and the DATC before serving an LDS mission in Manchester, England. He earned his A.S. and B.S. in Criminal Justice from Weber State University and a certificate from the Paramedicine program. His background includes 10k hours in Military, Law-Enforcement, EMS, and Firefighter training programs and courses.
Current Careers
-Internal Affairs Investigator & Supervisor with the Sheriff’s Office
-Air Force Captain & Intelligence Officer with Top Secret Clearance, Veteran with 14 years combined officer and enlisted (E-6) Military Police & Security Forces
-P/T firefighter/paramedic
-Former (2025) SWAT Assistant Team leader
Andrew Oblad

Andrew Oblad
County Sheriff
Email: obladforsheriff@gmail.com
Phone: 801 330-1911
Andy and his family live in Farmington. For the past seven years, he has been a leader in the Davis County Sheriff’s Office serving as Chief Deputy in all three of its bureaus. He is committed to keeping our communities, neighborhoods and schools safe while leading with integrity.
28 Years Law Enforcement Experience including Command Level Leadership: Davis County Sheriff’s Office 2019 – Current, SLCPD 1996 – 2017
Education
– M.A. Arizona State – Homeland Security and Emergency Management
– B.A. Columbia College – Criminal Justice Administration
– FBI National Academy Graduate
Experience
– Responded to Trolley Square Shooting 2007, KSL Triad Center Shooting 1999 and LDS Church Family History Library Shooting 1999
– Leadership experience in Internal Affairs, Crisis Intervention Training (CIT), Peer Support, Budgeting, Emergency Mgmt, Contracts, Grants,
Corrections, Patrol, Crime Lab, Investigations, Court Security, Media and Community Engagement.
– Current POST Academy Instructor
Zach Van Emmerik

Zach Van Emmerik
County Sheriff
Email: zach4sheriff@gmail.com
Phone: 801 516-8602
Zach Van Emmerik is a lifelong conservative, public servant, and father who has dedicated his life to protecting his community and defending constitutional freedoms. Born and raised in Davis County, he has proudly called it home and is committed to the values that make the county strong: family, personal responsibility, accountability, and the rule of law.

After high school, Zach enlisted in the Marine Corps, serving in the infantry where he learned discipline, leadership, and sacrifice. He continued in law enforcement, starting at the State Prison and later with the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office. He served in patrol, SWAT, and the Metro Gang Unit, rising to Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Deputy Chief over the Law Enforcement Bureau.

Zach believes public safety and constitutional rights go hand in hand. As Davis County Sheriff, he will prioritize law and order, deputy wellness, fiscal responsibility, and a transparent sheriff’s office that serves Davis County families with integrity.

County Controller
Scott Parke

Scott Parke
County Controller
Email: info@votescottparke.com
Phone: 385 367-4957
Scott Parke currently serves as the Davis County Controller, having been appointed after the previous Controller resigned mid-term. He brings more than 20 years of public-sector financial leadership. A Certified Public Accountant, Scott has dedicated his career to strengthening transparency, accountability, and long-term fiscal health in local government.

Prior to his current role, Scott worked at the Utah State Auditor’s Office and served as Comptroller for Weber County, where he gained extensive experience in auditing, budgeting, and managing financial systems.

Since his appointment, Scott has led structural reforms to improve sustainability and clarity in county finances, including reducing liabilities, streamlining processes, and improving public access to budget information.

A long-time resident of Davis County, Scott lives in Clinton with his family and is committed to serving his community with integrity, professionalism, and practical solutions.

County Attorney
Troy Rawlings

Troy Rawlings
County Attorney
Email: troyrlaw@gmail.com
Phone: 801 510-8689
In 1994, Troy received his JD degree in Alabama. From 1994-2000, Troy was in private practice specializing in criminal defense. He joined the Davis County Attorney’s Office as a prosecutor in January of 2000. Prior to his 1st election, Troy was Section Chief of the Special Prosecution Unit in the Davis County Attorney’s Office. As a prosecutor and defense attorney, he has handled numerous cases including jury and bench trials related to violent crimes against children and women. Troy has served on the Advisory Board of the National Center for Prosecutor Integrity and multiple professional boards. He has earned both state & national professional awards. Multiple of Troy’s cases have been featured on local or national television, including CNN, Fox News & Dateline NBC. Troy has been a frequent local and national presenter for the National District Attorney’s as well as in New York City at the John Jay College of Criminal of Criminal Justice and California District Attorney’s Association.

County Commissioner Seat A
Kendalyn Harris

Kendalyn Harris
County Commissioner Seat A
Email: info@votekendalyn.com
Phone: 801 897-3345
Daughter of Cozette, Karl Keyes
Bachelor’s degrees in Political Science & Communications from the U
Married to James Harris with 4 children ages 18-25
Decades of managing complex budgets
Mayor of Bountiful 4 years
Bountiful City Council 8 years
State Legislature Intern
President of Senate in the Utah Intercollegiate Assembly
appointed to SLC Community Development Block Grant Board
Housing coordinator for 2002 Olympics
Officer Supervisor University of Utah Hospital
Finance Chair University Student Apartments
President of the Davis County Republican Women
State GOP Caucus Education Ambassador
GOP State Central Committee & delegate
Best of State award winning business Pirate & Princess Parties
HR Manager Sapphire Fountains
Traffic Safety Committee
Bountiful Business Symposium
Main Street Merchants Association
Founder TEDxBountiful
Bountiful Planning Commission
Bountiful History Committee
Bountiful City Youth Council Advisor
2nd Dist Judicial Nominating Comm
Davis Council of Government
John Adams

John Adams
County Commissioner Seat A
Email: votejohnadamsdc@gmail.com
Phone: 801 618-7111
John Adams is a business leader, a community servant, and a lifelong Republican. He brings over 20 years of leadership experience in the private sector, managing complex, multimillion-dollar projects and working closely with executive teams.

John has served on the Kaysville City Council for the last 7 years, serving on multiple boards including the Davis Technical College Foundation Board, gaining firsthand experience with local government, workforce development, and responsible stewardship of public funds. He understands how county decisions affect families, small businesses, and long-term growth.

A strong advocate for fiscal responsibility, transparency, public safety, and local control, John is committed to keeping Davis County affordable, safe, and well-managed.

John lives in Davis County with his wife, Sarah, and their children. He is running not as a career politician, but as a neighbor and parent who believes government should work for the people it serves.
Scott Fletcher

Scott Fletcher
County Commissioner Seat A
Email: votescottfdcc26@gmail.com
Phone: 801 556-9673
Scott Fletcher, a lifelong Davis County resident, 60 plus years of deep roots in the community, and a family legacy of public service. Scott has long been involved in civic leadership, serving as a county and state delegate, Vice Chair of the Davis County Republican Party, and an active participant in the Chambers of Commerce. As a Physicist, he brings more than 40 years of professional leadership of data assessment, fiscal discipline, and results driven approaches to public service. His experience includes senior executive roles overseeing projects ranging from millions to billions of dollars. Scott spent nearly a decade working with state and national governments on budgeting, appropriations, and economic priorities, giving him strong insight into responsible fiscal management and strategic decision making. As a candidate for Davis County Commissioner Seat A, he is committed to transparency, fiscal conservatism, long term strategic assessment, and putting our community first.

County Commissioner Seat A
Austin Gray

Austin Gray
County Commissioner Seat A
Email: electaustingray@gmail.com
Phone: 385 888-6568
Austin Gray is a long-term resident of Davis County. Davis County deserves practical, principled leadership rooted in real-world experience. A lifelong member of the Republican Party, Austin is committed to conservative values, fiscal responsibility, and accountable local government.
Austin holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA), equipping him with the financial and organizational expertise necessary to manage taxpayer dollars responsibly and ensure county resources are utilized efficiently. He firmly believes that taxes should only be raised after thoroughly reviewing the budget and trimming unnecessary or wasteful spending, because families deserve the same discipline from government that they practice at home. Austin has been involved in the Davis County GOP as a precinct chair, legislative district vice-chair, state delegate, and currently serves on the credentialing team. Austin wants Davis County to remain a place for future generations to live, work and raise a family.

County Commissioner Seat B
Susan Lee

Susan Lee
County Commissioner Seat B
Email: jasonasanders@gmail.com
Phone: 385 321-6179
Susan Lee is a lifelong Davis County resident, conservative leader, and dedicated public servant with a strong record of community involvement and effective local governance. She has spent years strengthening families, supporting local businesses, and advocating for responsible government that lives within its means.

Susan served four years on the Kaysville City Council, focusing on infrastructure, public safety, and fiscal responsibility. She also served as liaison to Davis Technical College, the Davis Chamber of Commerce, and Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems, helping connect education, business, and essential services.

She helped organize and served three years on the Kaysville Power Commission, working to modernize the city’s electrical grid, improve billing systems, and strengthen financial reserves to protect ratepayers.

Susan has also been deeply involved in the Republican Party, serving six years as a GOP Precinct Chair and three years as President of the Davis County.
Lorene Kamalu

Lorene Kamalu
County Commissioner Seat B
Email: lorenecm@gmail.com
Phone: 801 390-0070
Commissioner Lorene Miner Kamalu’s life has led to full-time service for her fellow man. It is very meaningful and challenging work! She loves the work and prioritizes opportunities to support Davis County’s people and organizations over showy invitations.

Lorene shows up. She works hard, with devotion. She cares. It’s not unusual for her car to be one of the last in the parking lot at the end of the day.

It’s easy to observe that Mrs. Kamalu smiles readily and enjoys people! She makes time to meet, listen, and learn. Business, customer service, and leadership were Lorene’s foundation, which has translated well to public service.

Kamalu is a lifelong Republican. She’s known as a “straight shooter” with courage, integrity and wisdom. She feels strongly about local government: cities and counties impact our lives the most. Each place is unique.

In the 2026 campaign, Commissioner Kamalu’s motto is “Empowering The People!” Correctly understanding how things work behooves each of us.
Brandon Stanger

Brandon Stanger
County Commissioner Seat B
Email: stangerfordavis@gmail.com
Phone: 801 784-8867
I was born in Ogden and raised with strong examples of hard work and accountability. My dad sparked my passion for leadership, economics, and public service. I studied business with an emphasis in finance, spent a decade in banking and financial planning, and have been a small business owner for over 20 years. From my mom came a genuine love for people and a desire to serve others. I credit the rest to my wife, our children, my mentors, and most importantly, God.

Serving as Clinton’s mayor for the past four years has been a tremendous honor. During that time, I’ve served on many regional and county boards while creating lasting relationships at all levels of government. I’m a proud supporter of our military. I’m currently the Honorary Commander for the 388th Wing at HAFB.

These experiences have strengthened my commitment to principled leadership, fiscal responsibility, collaboration, and delivering practical results for families, communities, and businesses throughout Davis County.

State Representative District 14
John Taylor

John Taylor
State Representative District 14
Email: johntaylor4utah@gmail.com
Phone: 801 882-6617
John’s from Ogden, oldest of 7. Did LDS mission to Spain, attended Basic & AIT Training – Field Medic & Surgical Tech. He attended Weber S.U. BA Psychology & MBA Marketing. He Attended ROTC – commissioned as Intelligence officer & worked as Executive Officer and BN Maintenance Officer. Deployed to Saudi Arabia – worked for Commander, Major Gen. Schmidt. He ran Combat Search & Rescue and was Government liaison with Saudi Government. He deployed to Bosnia as Operations Officer and led Counter/Human intel teams. He separated military and entered the workforce in several industries, most recently for National Federation Independent Business, Novo Nordisk Medical and Myriad Genetics – had many leadership roles – won many national recognitions. John serves as Precinct chair, State & County Delegate – 20 years. He’s served as Scout Master and ecclesiastical leader at church. Lived in Syracuse 25 years. 30 yrs married to Carrie with six kids. Above all is a disciple of Jesus Christ.
Kara Toone

Kara Toone
State Representative District 14
Email: votekaratoone@gmail.com
Phone: 801 678-3184
I”m Kara Toone, and I”m honored to be a candidate for Utah House District 14. I”ve called District 14 home for nearly 23 years. My husband and I have raised our children here, and I’ve dedicated my career to serving this community.
I currently serve as Executive Director for Davis Education Foundation where I work with educators, families, and partners to support students, expand opportunities, and remove barriers to learning. Prior to my work at the Foundation, I was a stay-at-home mom for 12 years.
My commitment to service extends beyond education. I”ve proudly led local organizations including the Davis Chamber of Commerce Legislative Affairs Committee, Layton Rotary, and the Davis County Republican Women. I”ve also served on the Utah Republican State Central Committee, chaired Davis County Republican Party conventions, and worked as a precinct chair and delegate.
I hold a Bachelor”s in Communication/Public Relations, a Master”s in Public Policy, and have pursued doctoral coursework—each strengthening my ability to listen, learn, and lead.
I”m running because strong communities are built by people who show up, listen, and work hard. I would be honored to earn your support and serve as your voice in the State Legislature.

State Representative District 16
Trevor Lee

Trevor Lee
State Representative District 16
Email: votetrevorlee@gmail.com
Phone: 801 721-7896
Bob Stevenson

Bob Stevenson
State Representative District 16
Email: ko@murdockautoteam.com
Phone: 801 725-0999
Lifelong resident of Layton City. Graduated from Layton High School, received my undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Weber State University, and worked on a master’s degree in Distributed Education at Utah State University.
Taught School at Layton High, Retired from Nestle USA, Owner of BJS Quality Homes, and have served in the following elected positions: Layton City Council, Layton City Mayor, Davis County Commissioner.
Married to former Lisa John, 4 children, 8 grandchildren.
Civic involvement includes Layton City Volunteer Fireman, board member Davis Arts Council, Rotary Club, Open Doors Board of Directors, and youth recreation baseball umpire.
Hobbies: Boating, Winter Skiing, Snowmobiling, Fishing, Bee Keeping.
Have finished 15 marathons, numerous Half Marathons, 3k/5k/10k races, and participated in 9 Ragnars.
State Representative District 17
Adam Sorenson

Adam Sorenson
State Representative District 17
Email: adamsorensonhr17@gmail.com
Phone: 252 373-7116
Adam’s career is dedicated to representing and supporting abuse survivors and individuals harmed by the wrongful actions of others. In almost every case, this work means standing up for one person against a corporation, insurance company, or powerful institution with far greater money, resources, and influence. Adam knows what it means to fight when the odds are stacked against the individual—and to make sure their voice is heard.

That same imbalance exists in our Legislature. Corporations and special interests are not always wrong, but they are already well represented. They have the money to hire teams of lobbyists and lawyers, and they donate heavily to influence which priorities move forward. Too often, this results in laws that reflect their needs rather than the needs of everyday Utahns. There are plenty of voices at the Capitol advocating for businesses and powerful interests. Adam will be there to advocate for you.
I DISAGREE with the following area(s) of the Davis County Republican Party Platform:

1. “All legislation should have a positive effect on the stability and tradition of the family unit.” I fully agree with this statement/area of the platform. I do, however, think clarification is needed because this can be taken too far and used to justify infringing on the basic human and constitutional rights of those who do not fit within the sometimes subjective definition of the “traditional family.” I believe you can support the family unit without discriminating against, or infringing on the rights of, those who do not fit within what some define as the traditional family.

2. “We oppose tax-financed abortions and support legislation encouraging adoption.” I largely agree, but this is nuanced because without any funds for the proper and safe practice of abortion in cases of preserving life, instances of rape or incest, or when the life of the child has already ended, poor care and a lack of care ensue.

3. “We reject the use of immunity or vaccine passports, or similar digital ID systems, as a condition for full participation in society, including but not limited to travel, the right to assemble, employment, education, or to purchase goods and services.” As with everything, this can be taken too far. Proof of vaccination has long been required for international travel, but it is an issue that was magnified during Covid. When proof of immunity or vaccine truly protects society at large in extreme situations, then I am not against that. This, however, can be taken too far.
Lilian Bitner

Lilian Bitner
State Representative District 17
Email: opera73@gmail.com
Phone: 507 990-9007
I’m Lili Bitner, and I am honored to be a candidate for House District 17. I am a lifelong resident and I love where we live! The values of faith, family, freedom and kindness is core to our community character.
My husband and I grew up here in Davis County, met at Layton High and have raised our 7 children here.

I have a BA in Communication/Public Relations. Organizing hundreds of events, I have learned to negotiate, build relationships, budget wisely and find solutions. For 13 years, I worked with educators and ULRE to build opportunities for students.

A lifelong Republican, I believe strongly in the importance of Civic involvement to promote America’s founding principles and beliefs. For nearly 30 years, I have participated in door-to-door campaigns, calling efforts, caucus organization, Convention leadership, hosting neighborhood meetings, serving as the County and GOP Utah elections chair, an active member of the UFRW and nearly 20 years as county and state delegate.

Non-specific disagreement:I disagree with any part of the Republican bylaws which are not in compliance with Utah law. As an arm of the Utah party, we need to be in compliance with all the laws of the state.
State Representative District 18
Paul Cutler

Paul Cutler
State Representative District 18
Email: paul@votepaulcutler.com
Phone: 801 390-3444
It has been an honor to serve our community in the legislature. I have a record as a fiscal conservative, and as a responsive, collaborative lawmaker. Housing, inflation, and basic costs of living are top concerns in Utah. We need to live within our means and keep Utah the best managed state in the country with small, efficient, responsive government. We need proactive planning to balance economic growth with protecting our family-friendly communities for ourselves and our grandchildren. I believe in local control. I will fight against Federal/State overreach and to keep decisions local whenever possible.

As an engineer, I like to solve problems, and I’m always looking for ways to make government more efficient. I support parents making the education-related choices that are best for their children. I am committed to protecting Davis County families and preserving our conservative values. Personal liberties and religious freedoms are fundamental rights that must be defended.
State School Board District 4
Gary Widders

Gary Widders
State School Board District 4
Email: www_widders_com@yahoo.com
Phone: 801-332-9433
Gary Widders believes in more teachers. However, supervisors and administrators as a ratio have increased 400% over historic norms driving high taxes onto property owners. Irresponsible government spending on excessive employees, wants vs. needs, and the county’s self-approved hari-kari increases in government salaries creates inflation! School boards, party to the unions, make no concessions and the Commissioners sign-off on it every year. If Utah public education was a company it would be out of business, and why they do not want competition. Changes including less overhead are needed. Gary earned his bachelor’s degree (summa cum laude) in operations management from Excelsior University, and has achieved AAS degrees in avionic systems, information technology (distinguished graduate), and transportation. With 20+ years in leadership, volunteerism (community, church, and country), and as a lifetime Republican he is ready to represent us, Gary Widders for State School Board, district 4.
State Senate District 5
Jill Koford

Jill Koford
State Senate District 5
Email: Jill@votekoford.com
Phone: 385-244-0170
A proud lifelong resident of Weber County, Jill Koford is a graduate of both Weber High and Weber State University and holds a Master of Teaching from the University of Southern California.
She was elected to the Utah House in 2024 and serves on the Natural Resources and Revenue and Taxation Committees and as Vice Chair of Higher Ed Appropriations. Jill believes in small government, limited taxes, and individual liberty, and is working to scale back government and put more decisions in the hands of individuals and families. Jill believes in the promise of the American Dream and that together we can innovate to solve the most pressing issues facing Utahns.
Jill believes in communicating often with voters through email, town halls, advisory boards, and social media. Jill truly believes that your voice matters, and she wants to hear from you.
State Senate District 6
Tami Tran

Tami Tran
State Senate District 6
Email: vote4tami@gmail.com
Phone: 801 499-2379
Mayor of Kaysville
Elected in 2021 and Re-elected in 2025, Tami Tran is a trusted leader, committed community advocate, and proud Kaysville resident. As Mayor (current term: 2022-2025, with re-election extending service beyond), she has strengthened partnerships across Davis County, prioritized public safety, championed economic development, and fostered transparency and collaboration at City Hall.

Her Story: A Life Built on Hard Work, Opportunity, and Purpose
Tami’s journey began in Seoul, Korea. Adopted and naturalized as a U.S. citizen in 1979, she grew up in Utah, learning the values of family, faith, and resilience from an early age.
While studying Political Science at Brigham Young University, she started in mortgage lending, gaining lessons in trust, integrity, and financial management. This foundation led to a career in commercial development and entrepreneurship. In 2004, she co-founded an Aerospace and Defense contracting company, where she serves as CEO and President.
State Senate District 7
Braden Hess

Braden Hess
State Senate District 7
Email: 12blhess@gmail.com
Phone: 801 458-4569
I am a husband, father, business owner, and constitutional & estate planning attorney. I worked for the Legislature as an attorney and intern. I know exactly how the process works, so I won’t need to spend precious time learning how to get the job done. I will hit the ground running immediately for our district.
Utah deserves principled leadership focused on the people, defending our liberty, and the Constitution.
Here is my plan: vigorously vet judicial appointees (arguably the Senate’s most important job), lower and reform taxes, defend federalism & separation of powers, and cut unnecessary regulations & spending.
This convention-only campaign faces a powerful, well-funded opponent, so I need your help. We need to hold our leaders accountable & to high ethical standards. It’s time for change.
Please call or text me anytime. I would love to speak with you about the issues, tell you more about myself, or answer any questions.

Vote HESS!
Honest, Transparent, Principled
Stephanie Hollist

Stephanie Hollist
State Senate District 7
Email: stephaniehollist@gmail.com
Phone: 801 638-6010
Stephanie Hollist is a Utah attorney, policy leader, and longtime Davis County resident who believes government works best when it listens first and solves problems with care, competence, and integrity.

For more than 20 years, Stephanie has worked at the intersection of law, policy, and public service. She has served as in-house counsel in higher education, including many years at Weber State University, where she advised leadership on complex legal, governance, and policy matters affecting students, faculty, and the broader community. In that role, she was known for bringing people together, grounding decisions in data and law, and crafting practical solutions that met real-world needs.

Stephanie currently serves as General Counsel for a multi-state heavy-machinery company, where she works on business operations, compliance, contracts, and risk management—experience that gives her a strong understanding of how state policy affects employers, workers, and local economies.
State Representative District 12
Dava Neal
State Representative District 12
Email: applecrest59@yahoo.com
Phone: 801 317-3374
I am not registered in Davis County. I am registered in Weber County. House District 12 covers part of Weber amd parts of Davis Counties.