CJ Hernandez focuses on public service, cost of living in campaign for Senate District 5 seat
Photo supplied, CJ Hernandez
CJ HernandezCJ Hernandez is a Democratic candidate for the Senate District 5 seat. Below are her responses to a six-question survey sent to her by the Standard-Examiner. The Standard-Examiner made an attempt to contact each candidate involved in a competitive race in Weber and Davis counties.
1. Why is the position you are running for important?
2. What unique qualities, attributes, skills, and experiences do you possess that make you the best candidate in this race?
3. Please explain your priorities if elected, as well as why you believe you are uniquely capable of achieving those priorities.
Additionally, I support an immediate moratorium on data centers to keep energy costs down and preserve Utah’s water.
I am also committed to keeping Utah schools competitive and fully funded. I support repealing the opaque voucher program, as it doesn’t “fit all”, to restore focus and resources to public schools. In order to retain good teachers, we must protect their ability to collectively bargain and join a union. Unlike my opponent, I will never vote to strip public school teachers of their labor rights.
I also know that Utahns are tired of governmental power-grabs. Our legislature has tried to limit our right to pass ballot initiatives, packed the state supreme court, and gerrymandered our legislative districts to isolate themselves from voter feedback. I believe in listening to voters, protecting Utahn’s ability to vote by mail, and protecting our right to pass citizen initiatives. I’ve dedicated my campaign to listening to and serving voters, and I intend to maintain that commitment in the State Senate.
4. Please describe how you view the importance of compromise in politics and provide an example from your own experiences that highlights your perspective.
5. How will you balance the views of the vocal public, your political party, and your own understanding and knowledge as an elected representative?
First and foremost, elected officials should serve their voters. I am appalled by the way that some of our state’s elected officials have overruled voter concerns on data centers and redistricting. If the public is pushing back on an issue, then elected representatives should re-evaluate their position.
6. What is the best way for readers to contact you and/or get more information about your platform?
You can learn more about my background and platform, or contact me directly, at www.cjforsenate.com. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram at @cjforutsenate, and Tiktok at @cjin.ut.


