Incumbent Rep. Michael J. Petersen is running against Mike Monson, a retired high school teacher for a seat in the Legislature. The candidates are competing for the House District 2 seat in northeast Utah.
Petersen, founder of an online learning software company, has held the seat since 2021. Last Legislative session Petersen sponsored a bill that would have required every public school to display framed copies of the Ten Commandments.
Petersen did not submit answers after multiple email requests from The Tribune to participate in the voter guide. Below are Monson’s answers.
1. Should Utah, while it actively supports housing and business development, also be looking for more sustainable and less fossil fuel and carbon-dependent energy sources?
Mike Monson: I believe we should continue to look for alternative forms of energy and ways to make existing fossil fuels more efficient. If we look at pollution/smog in our valleys we need to find ways to reduce emissions. There are some viable energy options and we need to continue to encourage individuals and companies to each play a part in finding solutions. I would support nuclear energy initiatives as it has a proven track record in spite of the few well documented instances of beak down.
Michael J. Petersen: Did not respond.
2. Yes or no: Is climate change negatively impacting Utah?
Monson: Yes
Petersen: Did not respond.
3. Should Utah do more to subsidize homeowners to conserve water? Should laws require large users to pay more for water? What other steps should state government take to deal with water scarcity?
Monson: I don’t believe we subsidize homeowners for conservation. However, I do believe homeowners that are high-end users should pay more. That should incentivize those who are conserving along with continued educational campaigns for all to do their part in conserving. Cities and local governments could receive assistance to build water holding tanks and reservoirs and upgrade water pipes and groundwater drainage systems.
Petersen: Did not respond.
4. Yes or no: Do you support building the Lake Powell Pipeline?
Monson: No
Petersen: Did not respond.
5. Triggered after the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision, Utah’s current law bans nearly all abortions — except in instances of sexual crimes, when there is a fatal fetal abnormality or when the mother’s life is at risk. For now, that law is currently on hold in the courts and an 18-week ban is active in Utah.
More or fewer: Should Utah’s trigger law have more or fewer restrictions?
Monson: Fewer
Petersen: Did not respond.
6. For or against: Are you voting for or against the constitutional amendment that removes the requirement that income taxes be used for education and social services?
Monson: Against
Petersen: Did not respond.
