Note to readers • Click here to find an interactive map where you can enter your address to see all the races on your ballot that have a voter guide from The Salt Lake Tribune.
Democrat Grant Amjad Miller is running for a second term representing a House district that spans south-central parts of Salt Lake City, and faces Republican challenger Braeden J. Oswald.
Miller, a graduate of the University of Utah’s law school, works as a public defender, his website says. Oswald is a combat veteran who has served two years as a corrections officer with the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office, according to his website.
Candidates submitted photos and answers through a questionnaire. Answers may have been edited for style and clarity. Candidate responses are listed in alphabetical order by last name.
Election Day is Nov. 3. Mail ballots must be dropped off at a ballot dropbox by 8 p.m. on Election Day or, if returned by mail, must be received by the county clerk by 8 p.m. on Election Day.
Utah voters told us government corruption is their top concern in this year’s election. Why do you think voters feel this way? And why should Utahns trust you to represent them?
Miller: Utahns are right to remain vigilant about government corruption, particularly when the federal government is increasingly attempting to interfere with local elections. As a member of the legislative minority, my role includes scrutinizing and challenging policies that could harm the people of Salt Lake City. I work to raise those concerns whenever I have the opportunity — whether in committee or on the House floor. A functional government is an accountable government.
Oswald: People from both sides of the political spectrum are concerned with corruption due to the fact that our government has a history of deception dating back to the inception of our country. Recent access to information, which has never before been available, has caused people to lose faith in our previously trusted leadership. I will be able to represent with trust because although I still have faith in America. I, too, understand our government’s failures and demand greater transparency.
Utahns told us affordability is their second-highest priority in this election. How would you help Utahns afford housing, groceries, gas and other day-to-day expenses?
Miller: Government must do more to protect consumers from corporate exploitation. Rising costs for rent, food and necessities cannot be dismissed as simple consequences of the free market. I support collective bargaining, prevailing wages, renter protections and halting corporate housing ownership. Horrific military action against Iran has led to appalling gas prices. Every missile launched is a theft from Utahns facing hunger.
Oswald: We Utahns must demand that our chosen state and Federal representatives share our concerns of affordability. We must then ensure that those representatives voice our concerns in both the Statehouse and the U.S. Congress. We may also have to reduce the tax burden in Utah of every day necessities such as food and gasoline. I have personally drafted several initiatives and posted them on my website [votebraedenoswald.com] concerning housing and healthcare affordability solutions.
Water resources were also a top concern for voters. What policies would you support as Utah looks to balance growth with preservation of the Great Salt Lake and the Colorado River?
Miller: Toxic dust storms are increasingly common, and the Wasatch Front faces serious risks from the declining Great Salt Lake and water supply. Utah must treat drought as the norm, not the exception. We need meaningful water metering, accountability and conservation. I support a moratorium on new data centers and establishing water recycling methods to reduce our reliance on the Colorado River.
Oswald: To reduce usage and maintain water resources we should incentivize residential and businesses owners to landscape their properties utilizing water-smart methods. Industry should be mandated to utilize stricter efficiency of use, and recycle or reuse waste water. State and local government properties must be landscaped utilizing drought-resistant methods and ensure they are operating efficiently. Farms and ranches could also be incentivized to update to more efficient water delivery methods.
What is another topic you care about and want to address if elected to public office?
Miller: It is the privilege to represent the community that I love in the Utah House. Despite being a progressive policymaker in a superminority, I have been able to pass six bills into law during my first term. My focus has been on criminal justice reform, homelessness and improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities. I have dedicated my legislative time to fighting for vulnerable individuals and communities, and I welcome the opportunity to continue that advocacy.
Oswald: Financial literacy needs to be taught in our school system. I was failed and believe that current students are being failed. This failure stems from allowing for the completion of mandated educational requirements, with no instruction about issues they are sure to encounter, such as: understanding preparing taxes; the credit score system; investing in the stock market; how insurance of all types works; purchasing a home (escrow, etc.); and debt. I have created an initiative on my website.
How will you vote on Constitutional Amendment A? If passed, the amendment will stop the practice of publishing the full text of amendments and ballot questions by lawmakers in a newspaper for 60 days ahead of an election and instead require that text to be published on two state websites.
Miller: Against.
Oswald: For.
How will you vote on Constitutional Amendment B? If passed, citizen-proposed laws that increase taxes would need to be approved by 60% of voters, instead of a simple majority.
Miller: Against.
Oswald: For.
What’s your favorite book and why?
Miller: “Long Walk to Freedom” by Nelson Mandela. The book was written while Mandela was incarcerated for his efforts to liberate South Africa from apartheid. It is a testament to how dedicated political struggle can lead to seismic societal change.
Oswald: Although I have dozens, I will choose “Starship Troopers” by Robert Heinlein for this question. I am an advocate of civic duty, responsible governance and the idea that all rights must come with responsibilities. Rights are not earned privileges.

Tony Semerad