Patricia A. Herrera
Candidate for:  Legislative District-17 House of Representatives

Political party:  Democratic
Birth date: 7-16-40
Birth place: Houston, Texas
Current city of residence: 239 E. Burton Lane
Family members: 3 children / 5 grandchildren
Current occupation: Realtor 27 years
Education:  Adult, Tech and College (2 years):  Certified EKG technician, Cerritos College in Calif., Tariff Certification in Calif., Real Estate License in Utah.
Hobbies/Interests: Golfing, I am the Pat Herrera that got a hole in one at Sun hills G.C., Ladies Assoc. in April of 2008.  Bowling, I am the Pat Herrera that has received several awards for high game and high series, my best being 232 at HAFB.  I enjoy meeting new people and enjoy the challenge of Politics.  I have served on bowling association committees, Board of Realtors Fair Housing Committee as chair and co-chair.  Volunteered in the community, schools, domestic violence program, parades, church choir, enjoy traveling.  We owned and operated a small family restaurant in Salt Lake City.

1. Using 150 to 200 words, please state your reasons for running for office. What compels you to take on this responsibility?
    
   As a past candidate and my involvement with our Democratic Party since approximately 1988, my desire to serve the people and have input on behalf of my constituents is something I feel I can do.  There are many citizens who are discouraged from voting.  I want to be their voice and stand our ground and encourage people to get out and vote, hopefully for me!  I knew my chances as a Latina female Democrat would be slim and they still may be.  I’m hoping people have changed their views and know how sincere I am in being their voice.  Too much one-sided power is not healthy for the citizens of Utah.  I want to give back to the community’s that have been my bread and butter, my friends and neighbors.    
    
2. What do you consider to be the top three issues currently facing Utah? Please list them in order of priority to you (with #1 the most important) and explain why they are important to you and to Utah.
    
   #1 Issue:  Education, costs, classroom size, teachers paying out of pocket for materials.
   #2 Issue:  Economy, affordable housing, health costs, decline of small business, property rights, 
                   TAXES, fraud and abuse to children, seniors and the public.
   #3 Issue:  Environment, water, fuel.
      
3. What do you plan to do to address your top three issues?
      
   1. I plan to join as many committees possible, and stick my nose into other issues that chap my hide.  Public education costs should have priority over educating prisoners.
   2. Support contractors and housing needs.  This is the core to generating jobs from A to Z. I will support the candidates like Jay Del Holbrook for Commissioner, who will fight against frequent tax increases as we have recently experienced.  Where is the justice to the citizens of Davis County?  We need to cut pork spending before raising taxes.
   Fraud has been addressed and new laws put in place to those who take advantage of others.  We need to follow through and monitor this issue.
   Abuse is an on going problem, we need to continue to ensure and educate the public of the safety net available to them. 
   Health costs are incredible and unaffordable to majority of the people.  We need a more affordable medical and prescription plan. 
   Our environment needs a lot of attention from all of us.  Without good air, clean water and supply and alternative fuel options, none of the above will matter.  People need to join in and do their share in their communities.  That is good government. 
      
4. What are your most important accomplishments that would make you the most qualified candidate for office?
    
   It’s not about being a Democrat. It’s about knowing and living the needs of citizens. I have been politically active since 1988.  The Real Estate profession is politically active with National Association of Realtors, and local Realtor boards across Utah.  There have been great laws passed to protect consumers.  I have a sincere desire to serve as Legislator to my constituents.
      
5. What skills, talents, and strengths do you have that enhance your ability to be an effective office holder?
      
   My skills is every job I have had in the past from being a waitress at the age of 15, working in   the medical field, running a business, to being a Realtor for 27 years, and my community involvement gives me experience in people skills.
   I can work with others, even if we do not agree on everything, that has been a challenge in my    profession of Real Estate and I do it quite well.  I practice ethics, knowledge and integrity.
   My strength is my faith, family, friends, and associates in my profession and in my political party.       
    
6. Why do you belong to your political party? 
    
   I was invited by a friend to become active in the Democratic Party.  I received a warm welcome from our county party, state party and those serving in higher places.  The Democrats are a party of inclusion, very active, and politically savvy.  They care about issues and how people are treated.
   We don’t all think alike, but we pull together and unite for the needs of the people of Utah.  I like that!!!