Michael Keller (Utah)

Michael Keller's Utah roots extend back to the 1850s when his ancestors emigrated from Denmark to Salt Lake City. He grew up in rural Utah, Idaho, and Nevada, earning a reputation as a disciplined student. The U.S. State Department awarded Michael the Congress-Bundestag scholarship, allowing him to study in Germany for a year. He then served in the Berlin Germany Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Upon his return, Michael attended Brigham Young University and the University of Memphis, earning a master's degree in History. He currently teaches online courses for BYU-Idaho and substitute teaches for the Alpine School District. Michael and his wife enjoy traveling to new places, visiting state and national parks, hiking local trails, and volunteering for community events.

• Growth Current and future generations of northern Utah County should benefit from the increase in population without sacrificing their quality of life. • Preserve the essential character of the community • Build infrastructure before residential and commercial structures • Decrease average home prices. • Decrease realtor fees
• Education Focus on citizenship and job-related skills. • Increase vocational programs in high schools. • Concentrate scholarships on high-value-added degrees. • Encourage community problem-solving through service projects, debates on local issues, and conflict resolution.
• Role of Government A legitimate government respects the rights and liberties of those it governs within the framework of the law. • Offer relief for damages it inflicts upon its citizenry • Be scrutinized for spending public funds • Resolve legal disputes in a timely manner

Corporate Tyranny, Economic System, Labor, Inflation

The American Dream entails playing by the rules and working hard to afford a family and home. However, recent inflation has rendered this dream nearly unattainable. Wages fail to keep pace with the rising costs of living. Fewer young families can afford homes, with many resorting to renting or living with parents. Financial institutions and house flippers exacerbate the issue by driving up home prices, making ownership even more elusive. Despite possessing some of the brightest minds, the financial sector often prioritizes short-term gains through acquisitions and sales, ultimately undermining capitalism. The core problem lies in the lack of long-term value addition to the economy.

I look up to those that possess grace. They are incredible kind and can make others feel comfortable and cared for.

"High Noon" is a classic Western that portray the balance of duty and freedom.

Integrity, accountability, and judgement are the most important character traits.

I am not gaining anything from the experience.

A state legislature reflects the will of their constituents and works for their welfare.

I am a good husband and brother.

he Little Prince is my favorite novel. Its message is timeless, and it resonates in different ways as I move through the various stages of my life. It reminds me that the most important things are human relationships and creativity

I Sing Because I'm Happy

I developed epilepsy in college.

Ideally: The legislators introduce, debate, and vote on laws. The governor's role in the legislative process is to veto or sign bills into law. Additionally, the governor executes the law and provides pardons when necessary. While governors can offer feedback on the effectiveness and execution of previously passed legislation, they should not propose laws, as that is the responsibility of the legislature.

Utah's greatest challenge is coping with a larger population amidst diminishing water resources and increasing poverty.

State representatives should be average citizens who represent their constituents, first and foremost. If people want a voice in government, they should prioritize integrity over experience.

Decisions are best made in councils. Through consulting with fellow legislators, the best ideas prevail. Consensus forming is the best way to govern because constituents will go through the same process with their friends and neighbors and likely reach the same conclusion. Emphasizing divisions plays a role in electoral politics but should be left behind when it comes to legislative politics. It is all about doing what is best for everyone in the state.

I am not interested in running for higher office. I just want to serve for a few years and then return to normal life.

A governor should be able to declare an emergency that grants them specific powers outlined in law. The law should limit the duration of these powers. Additionally, the legislature should have the authority to revoke these emergency powers at any time.

I want to introduce a bill that changes property taxes:

Reduces tax on primary residences
Increases tax for entities owning more than two residential units

House Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Environment Committee:
The growth of Lehi and Saratoga Springs affects the meadows and wetlands. Preserving the land for recreation is a top priority for the committee.

House Education Committee:
Education is at a crossroads. With school districts controlling the curriculum and the rise of educational software, a teacher's role is evolving into more of a classroom manager.

House Transportation Committee:
Traffic has become a major concern for the constituents of House District 52. They need a representative who will advocate for their transportation needs.

Government accountability can be challenging in a state that predominantly supports one party. Therefore, Utah should make extra efforts to ensure transparency.