This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

On Monday I'll be joining other Utahns in Cleveland for the Republican National Convention. I feel honored to be chosen to represent Utah, excited to play a role in the future of the nation, and (I'll admit) even a little nervous to see the outcome.

It's a fascinating time to be a student of politics with all the dynamics at play. Some Republicans want to "Dump Trump," as many are frustrated with his comments, tact and electability. There are others who say if we don't respect the process and the will of the voters, we will disenfranchise Republicans and hurt the party — not only in this presidential election, but potentially other elections throughout the country.

Many of my fellow Republicans feel frustrated by the party. Some question how a person like Donald Trump became the presumptive nominee. Others wish more Republicans would enthusiastically support the candidate who captured enough delegates to earn the nomination.

There is even controversy within the Utah Republican Party, as evidenced by the ongoing debate between the caucus/convention system and signature gathering/primary elections.

Despite the Republican turmoil nationally and in Utah, one thing remains: I am a Republican. Not because I love our presumed nominee (I don't). And not because I always agree 100 percent with all the party leaders (I don't). I'm a Republican because I believe that the core values of the Republican Party offer the brightest hope for our nation.

This is the party of Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan. We're the party that supports life, liberty and opportunity.

As Republicans, we agree with the Founders' view that states matter. We need fewer decisions made in Washington, D.C. and more here locally. In Utah, we know far better how to educate our children, provide health care and allocate transportation funds than the federal government does. As Republicans, we believe that the government closest to the people governs best and is the most accountable.

As Republicans, we believe in a strong national defense. We support our troops and our veterans. We do not compromise our nation's security to any other nation.

As Republicans, we honor the rights protected by the Constitution. We support freedom of speech, religious liberties, and the right to bear arms. We value the life of the unborn and seek to reduce abortions wherever possible.

As Republicans, we believe in conservative fiscal policy. Government can't be all things to all people. But we do need to help our fellow citizens by making long-term and impactful policy decisions that empower them to be successful, and not by just giving out entitlements. I believe in free market principles and restraining government from over-regulation of business, or strangling innovation and job creation. Those are just some of the reasons why I'm a Republican.

Utah is a great example of why Republican ideals work. Our flourishing economy, soundly managed government and innovative hard-working citizens exemplify these principles every day.

I know some may be fed up. But let's remember what it really means to be a Republican. As a party, we're bigger than any one presidential candidate, more enduring than electoral victories and defeats, and something larger than inter party rules and procedures.

We're all about solutions to help improve America through conservative fiscal policy, shifting more control from the federal level to the states, strong national security and protection of God-given freedoms. Simply put, we're a party focused on helping people and making things better. And that's what I will represent in Cleveland, and throughout my time as a public servant.

Aimee Winder Newton is Salt Lake County Councilwoman, District 3, and a national Republican delegate.