David Stewart
Candidate Questionnaire

1.  In the past two years, what would you consider to have been the top three challenges for the Salt Lake County Republican Party?

1. The issue of how to deal with party officials who openly supported a democrat, and were subsequently "purged" from the party.
    
2. My second issue stems from the first and is the overall portrayal of the Republican party in the media.  We are the 800 pound gorilla and we need to be careful we don't take that for granted. Following the rules and due process in every situation is critical.
    
3. I believe there has been too much infighting and posturing in the party.  We need to focus our energy and resources to electing good Republicans.  Several seats in the legislature were won by less than a couple of hundred votes and retaining what we have gained will not be easy. 

2. In your opinion, what will be the top three concerns facing the party in the next two years?

1. There is a disconnect between the party and a fair amount of elected officials.  We need to support our elected officials and be a resource not a hindrance.
    
2. With our newly gained majority of elected seats, the Democrats will be making an even greater push to take back Salt Lake County.  Therefore, it is critical we are united in purpose (electing good Republicans) even though we may disagree on different issues.
    
3. We must have good turnouts for our caucuses because that is where fundraising and strong party leadership will be most impacted.  One critical success factor for a good turnout at caucuses is the elected officers of the county need to represent the majority of the party.  Otherwise, people will feel disenfranchised and they will not participate.

3. Do you believe that you sufficiently understand the make-up and operation of the party’s conventions, Central Committee and Executive Committee to do the job you are seeking? Why?

Yes, I believe that I understand my role as Vice Chair in the conventions, central committee, and executive committee. This understanding has been developed through research, observation, and participation.

4.  Do you believe that you sufficiently understand the procedural and governing documents of the party? Why?

Yes, I believe I understand and I am well versed in the Constitution, Bylaws, procedures, platform, etc.  I have read them several times, have seen them in action, and have had to defend them.

5. What special skills or experience do you possess that qualifies you for the office that you seek?

I feel that I bring a fresh perspective to county politics, and I do not bring baggage or preconceived ideas of how things need to be done.  I am very personable and open minded, which I feel is critical to the position of Vice Chair.  I am very organized, and I have in my professional career had to manage and organize large functions and events, which would be comparable to organizing successful caucuses.  I have been involved in politics for most of my life, and I believe the knowledge and insight I have gained would be very helpful in this position.

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Republicans for Civil and Informed Participation
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