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J. Michael Clara

RepublicanNo longer running · Withdrew

About

J. Michael Clara, also referred to as Jon Michael Clara or Michael Clara, is a Republican who sought the nomination for Utah State Board of Education District 5 in the 2026 election. He is a fourth-generation Republican originally from Texas who moved to Salt Lake City about 30 years ago. He has a background as a retired law enforcement officer and emergency management professional, previously served one term on the Salt Lake City Board of Education, held various Utah GOP leadership roles including precinct chair, legislative chair, region chair, and state delegate, and has been active in efforts related to election integrity.

Where they stand

Utah public education has said the system is broken, corrupt, and no longer serves the children of the state.
Teacher assignment as an SLC board member, alleged inexperienced teachers were concentrated in west-side schools serving students of color.
Open meetings sued fellow SLC board members over alleged closed-meeting law violations.
Election integrity has advocated restoring integrity in Utah elections and amplified claims that Gov. Spencer Cox did not legitimately qualify for the 2024 GOP primary ballot.
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