Utah Policy regularly profiles policymakers from across the state. In this edition we profile Utah Representative Brammer, Republican, District 27.
Occupation: Attorney.
Education: B.A. in American Studies (BYU), MPA (BYU), JD (BYU).
Growing up: Raised in Orem, Utah.
Fond memory: Anytime my kids are laughing and getting along.
Childhood ambition: Professional golfer or skier.
Family: Nicki (wife), and five kids (with two sets of twins): Talmage (12), Ella (12), Beckham (8), Jack (3), Hadley (3).
Why politics: I’ve always served in my community on boards and charities since leaving college. When the seat opened, I was asked to run and I felt like I had something to offer.
My perfect day: April 25th, because it is not too hot, not too cold. All you need is a light jacket. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BNwiqDGz5g)
Hobbies: Cycling, golfing, skiing.
First job: Janitor at a retail computer store.
Current motivations: I care deeply about my community and our state.
Lesson taught me by my mother: Get to work.
Hottest issues I’m watching: COVID, separation of powers, criminal justice issues.
Biggest challenge in public life: Balancing professional, family and public service life.
Biggest accomplishment: My family.
Alarm clock: 6:30 a.m.
Proudest moment: When my wife agreed to marry me (and then followed through with the commitment).
My philosophy of government: Government, when limited to its appropriate role, can protect the freedoms and safety of its citizens, and bless its citizens, and can provide a platform upon which citizens can both succeed and exercise those freedoms.
Why my political party: The platform aligns with my values.
Playlist: Mostly 80s rock, 90s grunge and jazz.
Personal motto: Laziness is the habit of resting before you are tired. (Voltaire)
Most embarrassing moment: While on a date, my contact came lose, causing me to go temporarily blind. I stumbled to the bathroom to fix it. A short time later, my date came in as well. It was a moment of confusion followed by extreme embarrassment and not followed by a second date.
Inspiration: Keep moving forward.
Retreat: Lake Powell.
Favorite book: Anything by George Orwell.
Favorite web site: www.realclearpolitics.com
Indulgence, guilty pleasure: Long naps on the weekend and Tres Leches.
Mentor: Parents.
I admire most in the world: Those that do good when no one is looking.
A small insight into my psyche: Jordan B. Peterson
My farewell message to the world: God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. Galatians
My district is cool because: It has good people, American Fork Canyon, and Sundance.
I like serving in the Legislature because: I learn so much about how things work.
Running for political office is: Perhaps the worst decision I’ve ever made. Jury is still out on this.
Historical figure I’d like to take to lunch: James Madison.
Sports team: Utah Jazz.
Favorite pet: Dog.
I always laugh at: The Simpsons.
Biggest issues ahead in 2021 session: Emergency powers/separation of powers.
My priorities for 2021 session: Emergency powers/separation of powers and Utah Lake
Anything else you’d like to share: I would like to thank the citizens of our state for trusting me with this stewardship.
