Kris Campbell, a mathematician and small business owner from Morgan, Utah, has officially declared his candidacy for the Republican nomination to represent Utah's House District 4. Announcing his campaign on Thursday, Campbell positions himself as an advocate for fair representation and electoral integrity, emphasizing the need to ensure that every voter’s voice is heard in the political process. In his announcement, Campbell expressed concern over what he describes as a disenfranchising electoral system, particularly pointing to gerrymandered districts as a significant barrier to fair representation. "I am running in the Republican caucus and convention on behalf of all the voters who are disenfranchised by our gerrymandered districts and unrepresentative caucus system," he stated, underscoring his commitment to reforming the current political landscape. Campbell’s campaign is rooted in a response to the perceived failures of the existing system, particularly following the passage of Proposition 4 in 2018. This measure was designed to mandate that electoral maps be drawn fairly and without partisan bias. "The people of Utah worked together across party lines to pass Proposition 4, yet the Legislature has since ignored the will of the people, drawing partisan gerrymandered maps instead," Campbell asserted, calling for compliance with the law and a respect for the Utah Constitution, which he believes empowers citizens to reform their government. As he embarks on his campaign, Campbell has outlined four primary pillars that will serve as the foundation of his platform. The first pillar focuses on Fair Representation, Fair Processes, and Fair Taxes. He aims to advocate for electoral systems that accurately reflect voter intent, legislative procedures that are transparent and accessible, and tax policies that are equitable. "It’s essential that our electoral processes truly reflect the will of the voters," he remarked, emphasizing the importance of an honest political system. The second pillar of Campbell's platform, labeled People First, stresses his commitment to prioritizing the needs and interests of the public over party affiliations or special interests. He has pledged to defend individual freedoms, protect individual rights, and respect personal privacy. This commitment is particularly relevant as many voters express concerns over the influence of party politics on personal liberties. The third pillar, Constitutional Integrity, speaks to his dedication to upholding both the Utah and U.S. constitutions. Campbell has stated his intention to honor the separation of powers and adhere strictly to the rule of law, which he sees as essential for maintaining a functional democracy. Lastly, Campbell emphasizes Community-Centric Stewardship, advocating for empowerment of local decision-making and promoting civic participation. He believes that responsible management of shared natural resources is crucial for the well-being of communities in Utah. "Empowering local decision-making will lead to more responsive governance," he noted, highlighting the importance of involving citizens in the decision-making process. Campbell has been vocal about his opposition to what he describes as ongoing legislative tactics that concentrate power among state Republican leaders. He contends that these tactics have resulted in amendments to the state Constitution aimed at undermining the voice of the people, leading to voter disenfranchisement and a lack of accountability in government. "We do not consent to a power grab. The power ultimately resides with you, the people," he stated firmly, reinforcing his commitment to restoring power to constituents. In addition to his political aspirations, Campbell is a well-educated professional holding a PhD in computing, and he serves on the boards of four community nonprofits. He is also a family man with two daughters, which he cites as part of his motivation to seek office—ensuring a better future for the next generation. As the race for the GOP nomination heats up, Campbell’s stance on critical issues such as electoral reform, individual rights, and community empowerment may resonate with voters who feel disillusioned by the current political climate. His campaign website, Kris4Utah.com, provides additional information about his platform and initiatives. With the primary elections approaching, Campbell's entry into the race will likely add another dynamic layer to the already competitive landscape in Utah’s House District 4. As he seeks to galvanize support among constituents, the implications of his candidacy could extend beyond just the local race, potentially influencing broader discussions about electoral reforms and representation in Utah and beyond.