Utah Policy regularly profiles policymakers from across the state. In this edition we profile Utah Senate President J. Stuart Adams, Republican, District 22.
Occupation: I am a partner in the Adams Company, a real estate, construction, and development firm in Kaysville.
Education: I graduated from Layton High School and went on to earn my Bachelor of Arts at the University of Utah in business finance.
Fond memory: I am a fifth generation Layton resident, and I grew up next to my grandparents. That association was incredibly valuable to me.
Childhood ambition: I wanted to be involved with my brother in real estate.
Family: Married to Susan, and together we raised four children. Today, we are proud grandparents to 16 grandchildren.
Why politics: I never anticipated going into politics, but there were some issues I felt compelled to be involved with.
Hobbies: Spending time with my grandkids, skiing.
First job: As a kid, I worked for Weber Basin Water as a laborer.
Current motivations: Making life better for my grandkids.
Lesson taught me by my mother: Do what’s right; treat other people with respect.
Hottest issues I’m watching: The economy, COVID-19 and the unintended consequences, like mental health and decreased preventive care.
Biggest challenge in public life: Not having enough time.
Biggest accomplishment: S.B. 296 – Antidiscrimination and Religious Freedom Amendments.
My philosophy of government: Limited government and free market.
Why my political party: It closely represents my political values and places an emphasis on individual responsibility.
Playlist: 70s oldies but goodies.
Personal motto: Work hard and integrity matters.
Favorite Book: “Rich States, Poor States.” Utah has ranked #1 in economic outlook for the 13th year in a row.
I admire most in the world: My dad and my grandfather.
My district is cool because: All of the people in it.
I like serving in the Legislature because: The people I get to meet and the relationships I get to build.
Running for political office is: A chance to gain empathy and learn about the issues that are important to people in my district.
Historical figure I’d like to take to lunch: Abraham Lincoln, Sam Adams, John Adams.
Biggest issues ahead in 2021 session: Education. Kids need a well-rounded education, both intellectually and socially.
My priorities for the 2021 session: Education, COVID-19, the economy.
