About
Drew Howells is a Democratic candidate for Utah House of Representatives District 39 in the November 3, 2026 general election, challenging incumbent Republican Ken Ivory. He is a retired military veteran who served over a decade in the Air Force, Utah Air National Guard, and Utah Army National Guard as a public affairs officer, journalist, and strategic communicator. Howells helped draft Proposition 2 and the Utah Medical Cannabis Act, has advocated for veterans issues including as chair of the Salt Lake County Democratic Veterans Caucus, and lives in Sandy as a disabled veteran focused on affordability and public service.
Where they stand
Affordability and housing
Supports expanding missing-middle housing, accessory dwelling units, reasonable renter protections, and smart density near transit while respecting local control and infrastructure limits.
Education and libraries
Supports fully funding public schools, expanding early literacy efforts, empowering teachers and librarians, and opposing book bans in favor of intellectual freedom and access to information.
Healthcare
Advocates for compassionate, evidence-based care, including strong support for the medical cannabis system he helped create.
Environment and energy
Emphasizes stewardship of land, water, and air; restoring the Great Salt Lake; improving air quality; and investing in clean, resilient energy with long-term planning.
Civil liberties and governance
Supports protecting personal freedoms, LGBTQ equality, religious freedom without imposition, voting rights, government transparency, and addressing real problems over culture wars; as a veteran and gun owner, supports Second Amendment rights alongside firearm safety and due process.
Veterans
Committed to expanding state support for veterans, including authority for state VA advocacy and humane homeless services focused on permanent housing.
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