Upholding Constitutional Values in Utah

ALEC-FreedomWorks State Legislator of the Week

This week, ALEC and FreedomWorks introduce Utah State Senator Margaret Dayton from the 15th district. Dayton represents Utah County. A previous member of Utah’s House of Representatives, Dayton is serving her 10th year in the Salt Lake State’s Senate.

Why did you run for office?

The family is the basic unit of society. It seemed that women in the political arena are focused on women’s issues instead of the fundamental family unit. I felt an urgency to support a woman who would speak for families. When an opening in the Utah Legislature became available, and five men signed up for that position, I saw no woman candidate to support. So, I entered the race myself to promote my support of the family.

In your view, what is the biggest issue facing your state?

There is a need to return to the basic principles laid out in the Constitution. Supporting the Constitution of the United States allows for free markets, limited government and for the citizens to live their lives without the burden of high taxes and regulations. I see too many state legislatures seeking dependency from the federal government. It is my hope that our state, and others, will push for more of the state control espoused in the U.S. Constitution–and restated in the 10th Amendment.

If you could “wave your magic wand,” what would you like to see immediately implemented in your state?

My magic wand wish would be smaller school districts with smaller neighborhood schools where the parents have more input on the education curriculum of their children.

What project or law are you most proud of?

For most of the two decades now, I have committed energy each legislative session to improving the Utah State Developmental Center (USDC). The USDC provides an array of resources and support for people with disabilities who have complex and acute needs. These individuals need our attention and their families need support. Besides helping to improve the USDC physical facilities, I have worked on legislation to assist parent support groups, and I have helped USDC establish a dental clinic which provides specialized dental care for the residents of USDC. The Dental Clinic also serves an out-patient facility for others throughout the state needing specialized dental care.

How has ALEC helped you as a legislator?

Attending ALEC meetings has energized me as I refocus on limited government, constitutional principles and patriotism. I so appreciate hearing speakers and presentations with that same directive.

Can you share a fun fact about yourself that’s not in your official bio?

Since my father was a career military officer, our family moved frequently. I attended grade school in four different states. I now have served in the Utah Legislature longer than I have lived any place growing up.

Each week, ALEC and FreedomWorks showcase legislators who embody the principles of limited government, free markets, and federalism.