Karen Morgan
Candidate for: Utah State Senate district 8

Political party: Democratic
Birth date: May 2nd
Birth place: Ogden, Utah
Current city of residence: Cottonwood Heights City
Family members: Husband - Baird; five sons (one deceased); three daughters-in-law; one granddaughter
Current occupation: Homemaker; former high school teacher
Education: University of Utah 1976 – Composite B.S. Degree in Secondary Education/Family & Consumer Studies; Also Attended Weber State University
Hobbies/Interests: Spending time with Family; Reading; Walking; Boating; Cooking; Travel 

1. Using 150 to 200 words, please state your reasons for running for office. What compels you to take on this responsibility? 
    
   I have served in the House of Representatives for 10 years, and I care deeply about Utah’s future.  I am very concerned about what I see happening on Capitol Hill.  Too often the views and wishes of the people have been ignored and critical issues have been brushed aside.  I believe my community needs a Senator who is more responsive to our citizens and will better represent our views and values.
    
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.  A top quality education for our children is my highest priority.  It is the key to a brighter future of opportunity for them, and a well-educated workforce also drives a strong economy. 
   2.  A strong economy is my second priority.  High paying jobs, lower taxes and fiscal responsibility are a must. 
   3.  Open and Honest Government is my third priority. The people deserve more integrity from their elected officials.
    
3. What do you plan to do to address your top three issues?
    
   I will work to get funding for smaller class sizes, and I will continue my efforts with reading achievement and accountability in our schools.  I will also work to increase career counseling.  I will continue to develop and support economic development incentives, and I will continue to vote against tax increases. I support a ban on gifts from lobbyists to legislators, I oppose closed-door meetings and I will vote for an independent ethics commission to bring more oversight to the Legislature.
    
4. What are your most important accomplishments that would make you the most qualified candidate for office? 
    
   I have served for 10 years in the House of Representatives, and I have strong relationships in both the House and Senate.  As a former high school teacher and as a parent, I have an inside understanding of the most critical needs in our schools.  I was able to create and fund the University of Utah Reading Clinic through legislation.  I have worked on a wide variety of issues and have passed many bills that have improved the quality of life in Utah.
    
5. What skills, talents, and strengths do you have that enhance your ability to be an effective office holder?
    
   I am willing to listen and respond to my constituents.  I am able to build strong relationships on both sides of the aisle to more effectively represent the citizens of my community.  I bring balance and a voice of moderation to the Legislature.  I work hard and have a strong desire to make a difference on Capitol Hill.
    
6. Why do you belong to your political party? 
    
   I belong to the Democratic Party because I believe Democrats care deeply about people, about providing a top quality education for students and about protecting the environment for future generations.  Democrats believe that it’s important to come together as citizens to create a great community in which to live, to help one another and to lend a helping hand to those in need.