Matt MacPherson

Matt MacPherson was born in Las Vegas, Nevada.[2] His career experience includes working as a business owner.[3][4]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a businessman who has raised his three children in Utah with his wife of 24 years. Having moved here from Las Vegas in 2004, I have built several successful companies and have served an many capacities in my neighborhood, church, city and state.

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?

I deeply respect parental rights, individual freedoms, free markets and small government. I repealed the COVID lockdown and mandate powers in State code my first year in office. I have repealed multiple unnecessary and burdensome regulations and agency powers. I have worked to ensure the areas where we need money get it, while cutting the waste and abuse in areas we don't need it.My voting record and my sponsored legislation shows a deep commitment to law enforcement, improving public education and reforming government.As a fiscal conservative, I have voted multiple times to cut taxes, and against new taxes. I have voted to protect the state from undue federal powers, while also ensuring our local elected officials follow state law. I have worked to ensure our Judiciary is accountable through much needed reforms.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

transparency, accountability, shrinking government, criminal justice

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Utah Taxpayers Association (Friend of the Taxpayer award)

Utah Parents United

The Doers Network

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I have been a resident of West Valley City for over 20 years. As a small business owner, parent, and active community member, I am deeply committed to the success and growth of the West Side. Over the years, I have dedicated significant time to supporting local programs, businesses, and charities, and I currently serve on the West Valley City Police Department's oversight committee. My political involvement includes serving on the Salt Lake County GOP Bylaws Committee and holding roles as precinct chair, as well as county and state delegate.

My legislative priorities include addressing the need for affordable housing, promoting economic development, improving education, advancing gun safety, and enhancing mental health resources. I am driven by a passion for making a positive impact on the community and believe these issues are key to ensuring West Valley City's future success. With a proven track record of voting in line with my constituents' needs and genuinely listening to their concerns, I am eager to continue my service.

I value connecting with voters and encourage open conversations about the issues that matter most. If you have questions or ideas, please reach out—your voice is important to me. I hope to be reelected to continue the work I have started for all Utahns.

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?

I believe that sound financial management is key to a prosperous society. I advocate for careful oversight of the state’s budget, ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely with long-term economic health in mind. As your Representative, I will continue to push for transparent fiscal policies, responsible spending, and reducing bureaucratic waste to safeguard our state’s financial future.

I am also committed to addressing housing affordability. I believe every Utahn deserves the opportunity to own a home, and I support policies that increase affordable housing options and lower barriers to homeownership across the state.In the realm of fiscal responsibility, I firmly believe that sound financial management is the foundation of a prosperous society. I advocate for careful oversight of the state’s budget to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, focusing on long-term economic health.

As your Representative, I will continue to push for transparent fiscal policies, responsible spending, and the reduction of unnecessary bureaucratic expenses. By fostering a culture of fiscal responsibility, I aim to protect our state’s financial well-being for current and future generations.I believe that in a free marketplace of ideas, parents should have the option to choose where to send their children for schooling, regardless of their background or zip code.

I recognize that a child’s educational foundation is vital to their future success, which is why I am dedicated to expanding school choice. This approach fosters a competitive environment where teachers are supported, parents are empowered, and the focus of education remains on what matters most: the children.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about:

- Affordable Housing

- Economic Development

- Public Education

- Mental Health

- Gun Safety

- Law Enforcement

- First Amendment Rights

- Parental Rights

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

We live in a district with a wide range of views and backgrounds, it's so important to stay committed to listening to everyone. I make it a priority to understand the different perspectives in our community, making sure that every voice is heard and valued.

Collaboration is key. I work with both Republicans and Democrats because I believe bipartisanship leads to real solutions that benefit all of us. I've shown time and again that I'm willing to reach across the aisle to build relationships that get things done.

Above all, I believe in integrity, transparency, and hard work. By staying accountable and listening with empathy, I aim to represent the diverse needs of our district and help create a better future for everyone.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

As a Republican running in a swing district, I believe the core responsibilities for someone elected to office are clear:

First, we must be accountable to the people who put us in office. That means listening to all voices, working hard to address their concerns, and making sure government works for them—not the other way around. We need to foster transparency, integrity, and a willingness to tackle the tough issues.

Second, I believe a representative must prioritize keeping the community safe, fostering economic growth, and protecting individual freedoms. That includes reducing government overreach, ensuring that families can thrive, and supporting local businesses so they can create jobs and boost our economy.

Finally, we need to work to bridge divides. In a swing district like ours, I’m committed to finding common ground and passing policies that benefit everyone, regardless of party affiliation. That’s how we move forward—by focusing on practical, sensible solutions that put people first.

What legacy would you like to leave?

As a father, the legacy I want to leave is all about creating a better future for my kids and families in our community. Becoming a parent changed my perspective on everything. It really hit home how important it is for our children to have the opportunities they need to thrive in whatever path they choose. That’s a big reason why I decided to run for office.

I want my kids to grow up in a place where they can afford a home, get a quality education, and live in a safe, supportive environment. I’m passionate about tackling the challenges we face today, like housing affordability and the rising cost of living, so we can make that future a reality.

Ultimately, I hope to leave a legacy of service, integrity, and real progress. When my kids look back, I want them to see that I stood up for what mattered most—ensuring they and others have a chance to succeed and thrive in this great state of Utah.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Over the next decade, I believe one of Utah's greatest challenges will be addressing housing affordability and the rising cost of living. We’ve seen rapid population growth, which has put immense pressure on our housing market, driving up prices and making it harder for families—especially young families—to find affordable homes. If we don’t tackle this issue head-on, it will continue to push people out of our communities and strain our economy.

The solution lies in smart policies that promote growth while removing unnecessary red tape that slows down housing development. We need to streamline regulations, encourage innovation in the housing sector, and work with both private developers and local governments to expand affordable housing options.

Additionally, we have to focus on keeping Utah a place where families can thrive by addressing the overall cost of living. This means ensuring that wages keep pace with inflation, keeping taxes low, and reducing the burden of everyday expenses. By working together, we can make sure Utah remains a place where people can afford to live, work, and raise a family.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

As an incumbent, I believe having previous experience in government or politics can be incredibly beneficial for state legislators. Experience provides a deeper understanding of how to navigate the legislative process, build relationships, and effectively advocate for the needs of our communities. It allows us to hit the ground running and tackle complex issues like housing affordability, healthcare, and education with a clear understanding of how to get things done.

That said, while experience helps, what matters most is a commitment to serving the people and staying connected to the community. Having a background in government should never mean being out of touch with the needs of everyday Utahns. I believe a balance of experience, fresh ideas, and a strong work ethic is key to being an effective legislator.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

I believe it’s incredibly beneficial to build strong relationships with other legislators, regardless of party. In a swing district like ours, it's essential to work across the aisle to get things done for the people we represent. Collaboration often leads to the best solutions, and by building relationships with my colleagues—both Republicans and Democrats—we can find common ground and pass legislation that benefits everyone.

I admire many of my fellow legislators, especially those I’ve had the privilege of working with in bipartisan caucuses. These relationships are built on mutual respect and a shared goal of serving our constituents. By working together, we can make meaningful progress and deliver real results for our communities.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I believe financial transparency and government accountability are absolutely essential. Taxpayers deserve to know how their hard-earned money is being spent, and we need to ensure every dollar is used responsibly. I support policies that require clear, open financial reporting from all levels of government so we can cut waste, eliminate unnecessary spending, and make sure funds are directed where they’re truly needed.

Government officials should be held to the highest standards, and that means being fully accountable to the people. Whether it's through audits, oversight, or ethics reforms, I’ll push for measures that keep government transparent, responsive, and focused on serving the public—not special interests. Trust in government starts with honesty and accountability, and I’m committed to making sure that’s always the case.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Strong families make strong communities. Strong families need safe communities and a good economy.

As a longtime businessman in Utah, I know how to bring jobs and opportunities to West Valley City. For businesses and entrepreneurs to pursue their American Dream in Utah, we must maintain a strong economy by keeping safe communities, providing exceptional schools, and creating a reliable infrastructure. I have the experience to work toward these goals. I have worked with the West Valley City Professional Standards Review Board. On that board, I understand the importance for civilian oversight to make certain our police receive proper funding and training. As parents, my wife and I worked to fund dual immersion programs and founded a chapter of Watch Dogs (Watch Dads of Great Students) to aid with PTA goals. Making certain schools are fully funded is our best way to invest in Utah's economic future. As we work to invest in our future, we must focus and prioritize as we work through the challenges to recover from the COVID-19 lockdowns.

Defend those who serve and protect us.

Strengthen our economy with business friendly policies.

Reliable infrastructure and exceptional schools to allow future economic growth and opportunities.

I am passionate about West Valley City and we deserve to have our city elevated in our status with the State of Utah.

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?

Safe CommunitiesExceptional EducationStrong business opportunities for families in West Valley City

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Strong families make for strong communities makes for a strong city. I am against policies that come between good families having good opportunities to succeed.