Utah 2nd Congressional District candidates speak on LGBTQ issues

The three Republican candidates vying to replace outgoing Rep. Chris Stewart in Utah’s Second Congressional District were asked to address “LGBTQ+ issues and Utah’s 2nd Congressional District.” All three, Becky Edwards, Bruce Hough, and Celeste Maloy, answered the questions posed by KSL NewsRadio in July:

BECKY EDWARDS

“Our LGBTQ communities are important members of our state, and they are making great contributions. We can do more to make sure that there are opportunities for all members of our state to grow and thrive. Those are focuses that have been important in my time in the House. We can look at some of the work that the state legislature did and the accomplishments we made on non-discrimination in terms of housing and employment. That’s a good model that really reflects the business and the religious community here in the state. I look forward to having more of those kinds of conversations.”

On her website, Edwards states, “Everyone should have a seat at the table. I am committed to expanding opportunity and improving the quality of life for all Utahns, especially those who have historically been left out of the conversation. Race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and other factors should not limit opportunities or access to education, employment, housing, and healthcare. Together, we can make significant progress toward our nation’s highest ideal of ‘liberty and justice for all’ as we consider steps to expand opportunity and leave a better legacy for the next generation of all Utahns.“

Edwards marched in the Utah

Pride Parade and had a booth at the Utah Pride Festival in 2022 while running for U.S. Senate.

Bruce Hough

“The fundamental point here is that we just have to start with a basis of loving all children of God. So that’s where we start. But that being said, we have to also protect parental rights, the rights of the family. To make sure that those are not abrogated. In terms of federal law, I think that everything that needs to exist probably exists currently. They can simply be enforced. Everyone should have the right to medical care and housing, and there shouldn’t be discrimination in these areas. But in other areas, we need to make sure that parents have the right to make sure how their children are educated. What they’re taught and how those functions ought to be done. Those are really issues that are local issues and shouldn’t be federally mandated.”

Celeste Maloy

“I don’t know how many more laws we need. Gay marriage has been legal in this country for seven years. The Respect for Marriage Act says if the Obergefell decision is ever overturned, then the federal government is going to respect marriages that are performed by states. As far as the issue, though, I think everyone’s entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. If you’re gay and you believe in smaller government, I welcome you to come work with me on that. At the same time, I also defend the rights of religious people and religious organizations to teach that marriage is between a man and a woman. I think there’s enough freedom to go around. Q

Salt Lake native stabbed and killed in Portland while aiding a transgender coworker

Colin Smith, a 32-year-old Salt Lake native, was killed in Portland as he came to the aid of a transgender coworker.

In the early hours of July 2, Smith and a group of co-workers from The Ox restaurant were outside the High Dive Bar in Portland’s Buckman neighborhood. A hostile encounter unfolded when a young man, identified as Rahnique Jackson, 24, allegedly directed slurs at a transgender colleague and engaged in inappropriate touching. Witnesses recounted that the situation escalated, prompting Smith to intervene in defense of his co-worker.

Booj Whaa House and Pet sitting Smith was stabbed repeatedly by Jackson, who then fled the scene. Police responded swiftly but were unable to save Smith’s life.

Jackson, who had evaded authorities, was eventually captured by U.S. Marshals five days later. He is now facing charges of second-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon. The District Attorney’s office is yet to determine whether the stabbing will be classified as a hate crime.

Smith was remembered as a selfless individual who consistently looked out for others. Paulina Solis, Smith’s former girlfriend, said, “He loved those around him unconditionally… He always looked out for the people that got overlooked.”

“He was quick to tell you he loved you, all the time,” said Devin Lee, a fellow Ox server. “That was just Colin; he just loved.”

Mark Knudsen, the general manager at The Ox, recalled how Smith’s compassion was evident from the very first day they met. Smith’s sister, Danielle Smith, reflected on her brother’s legacy, asserting that he died a hero, standing up for what was right. Q