CJ Hernandez

CJ Hernandez graduated from Weber High School. She earned a bachelor's degree from Weber State University in 1994 and a graduate degree from Utah State University in 1998. Her career experience includes working in public service.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a Weber County native, former senior U.S. diplomat with more than three decades of public service experience. Raised by a single mother who was a public school teacher, I learned early the values of hard work, resilience, and community.

I began my career at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, and with the Defense Logistics Agency in Europe, supporting procurement operations and environmental stewardship. I later served as a U.S. Foreign Service Officer (a diplomat) in eight countries, managing multi-million-dollar programs, leading diverse teams, and working alongside military and diplomatic partners in complex environments.

After returning home, I worked with the Ogden City Mayor’s Office to strengthen community partnerships and support local families.

I am running for Utah Senate District 5 to bring experienced, accountable leadership focused on the issues that matter most to Utahns.

My priorities include lowering the cost of living, strengthening public schools, and protecting Utah’s air, water, and the Great Salt Lake. I am committed to transparent, community-centered leadership that ensures every voice is heard and government works for the people it serves.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Affordability & Working Families

Utah families are doing everything right — working hard, raising kids, and contributing to their communities — yet too many are falling behind. The cost of housing, groceries, and childcare keeps rising while wages struggle to keep up.

It’s time for leadership focused on real solutions that lower costs and support working families. I’m running to ensure people can afford to live, work, and build a future right here in the communities they call home.Strong Schools & Opportunity

Strong public schools are the foundation of opportunity and the future of our state. Our teachers are being asked to do more with less, and our classrooms are stretched thin. We must invest in education, support educators, and ensure every student has access to the tools they need to succeed — whether that’s college, trades, or technical careers. When we invest in our schools, we invest in Utah’s long-term strength and stability.Clean Air, Water & Accountability

Clean air and water are essential to our health, economy, and way of life. Protecting the Great Salt Lake and managing our water resources responsibly must be a priority. At the same time, Utahns deserve a government that is transparent, accountable, and responsive to the people it serves. I’m running to bring experienced leadership that focuses on practical solutions, protects our natural resources, and ensures every voice is heard.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I believe in putting community first — ensuring decisions reflect the needs and voices of the people they impact. From that foundation flows my focus on affordability, addressing the rising costs of housing, childcare, and everyday essentials; strengthening public education and workforce pathways so students can succeed; and protecting our air and water, including preserving the Great Salt Lake. I am also committed to public safety, community well-being, and a transparent, accountable government that listens and responds to Utahns.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Several endorsements from caucuses and organizations are still pending as it is early in the election cycle.