Utah Policy regularly profiles policymakers from across the state. In this edition we profile Rep. Marie Poulson, Democrat, District 46. Rep. Poulson is retiring after this year and we wish her well in retirement.
Occupation: Retired high school English and history teacher.
Education: BA English and History BYU; Teaching Certificate.
Growing up: My dad was a cattleman and small farmer, so I spent my childhood with the cows, horses, pigs and chickens. No money, but we ate well.
Fond memory: I spent three years living in northern Germany with our young family. My husband was stationed there as an Army dentist. For a farm girl, it was an extended European vacation.
Childhood ambition: To get a college education.
Family: I have been married to my husband Dan for 48 years. We have five children and ten grandchildren. Family is everything.
Why politics: This is another opportunity to serve. I have been teaching students and raising children my whole life, encouraging them to pay attention and be good citizens. At the end of my career, I wanted to provide a role model, especially for young girls because there are so few women in leadership positions in Utah.
My perfect day: A day spent outdoors in beautiful weather in gorgeous scenery walking, hiking or biking.
Hobbies: TRAVELING, reading, hiking and biking.
First job: Every disgusting job on the farm. It makes you appreciate every other job.
Current motivations: Enjoying life while making a difference.
Lesson taught me by my mother: Be slow to judge. Try hard to fully understand the other person’s point of view.
Hottest issues I’m watching: COVID response, education, 2020 election.
Biggest challenge in public life: Partisan politics with an increasing lack of civility.
Biggest accomplishment: My beautiful family.
Alarm clock: 6:30 a.m.
Proudest moment: Again, my children.
My philosophy of government: I believe in the process. I try hard to listen to the voices of my constituents and represent their interests.
Why my political party: I have worked with children my entire life. My party is concerned with the needs of those children and all people, their education, their health and their quality of life.
Playlist: The Beatles, Cat Stevens, James Taylor, Simon and Garfunkel and other 70s music.
Personal motto: Experiences over things and making a difference over making money.
Most embarrassing moment: Too many to explain.
Inspiration: Currently Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Retreat: Hawaii.
Favorite book: Piles of them, hundreds of them. I am a literature teacher.
Indulgence, guilty pleasure: Diet Coke and anything chocolate.
I admire most in the world: People who display courage in the face of adversity.
A small insight into my psyche: I am constantly moving. Not a good relaxer.
My farewell message to the world: Carpe Diem! Live every moment!
My district is cool because: They have trusted me with their vote over six elections. I am so appreciative of that honor.
I like serving in the Legislature because: I meet the finest and most interesting people.
Running for political office is: Not for cowards.
Historical figure I’d like to take to lunch: Abraham Lincoln.
Sports team: We have had BYU football tickets for over 30 years.
Favorite pet: 30 years of dogs.
I always laugh at: Sometimes the most inappropriate times.
My desk is: Tidy.
Biggest issues ahead in 2021 session: Education and COVID.
