Note: Utah Policy regularly profiles policymakers from across the state. This week we profile Utah State Senator Todd Weiler, District 23.
Occupation: Attorney
Education: BYU
Growing up: Chicago suburbs
Fond memory: Snowmobiling behind my house
Childhood ambition: Become a lawyer
Family: Six siblings, four children
Why politics: Genetic defect
My perfect day: Exploring another country with my wife
Hobbies: Cycling
First job: Janitor
Current motivations: Keeping my head above water
Lesson taught me by my mother: Read the scriptures
Hottest issues I’m watching: COVID-19 fallout
Biggest challenge in public life: Juggling different responsibilities
Biggest accomplishment: Marrying Elizabeth
Alarm clock: My family
Proudest moment: Becoming a father
My philosophy of government: Limited is best
Why my political party: Fighting for equal opportunities rather than equal outcomes
Playlist: 80s Top 40
Personal motto: Life is what happens while you’re making other plans
Most embarrassing moment: Shooting at the wrong basketball hoop in Jr High
Inspiration: Doing my best
Retreat: St. George
Favorite book: John Adams
Favorite web site: Twitter.com
Indulgence, guilty pleasure: Netflix
Mentor: Doug Parry
I admire most in the world: Those who sacrifice for others
A small insight into my psyche: I don’t like bullies
My farewell message to the world: Pineapple belongs in pizza
My district is cool because: All the great people
I like serving in the Legislature because: I have a seat at the table
Running for political office is: Like poking yourself in the eye
Historical figure I’d like to take to lunch: Martha Hughes Cannon
Sports team: Cougars
Favorite pet: Cocoa, but he left this world two years ago
I always laugh at: Dad jokes
My desk is: Cluttered
Biggest issues ahead in 2021 session: Getting back to normal
My priorities for 2021 session: Surviving
Anything else you’d like to share: Don’t say “you guys” a lot when delivering a formal speech. Also, your socks should match your tie and your belt should match your shoes.
