Campaign photo / padenforutah.com
Taylor Jr Paden
About
Taylor J. Paden, also referred to as Taylor Paden, is a 30-year-old lifelong Utahn born and raised in West Valley City who attended Hunter High School. He is a union organizer and university worker who helped form the United Campus Workers of Utah and is a member of CWA 7765 representing workers at the University of Utah and University of Utah Health System. Paden, identifying as a Democratic Socialist and endorsed by the DSA, launched a campaign as a Democratic candidate for Utah State Senate District 13 in the June 23, 2026 primary, where he competed against Silvia Catten and Evan Done.
Where they stand
Workers' Rights
Repeal Utah Right to Work law; protect collective bargaining including card check for public workers and ban employer interference.
Housing
Legalize rent control; pass tenants bill of rights including limits on fees, eviction support, and free legal counsel.
Childcare and Family
Fund universal pre-K; expand refundable childcare tax credits.
Immigration
End local cooperation with ICE; designate sanctuary spaces in schools, government buildings, hospitals, and shelters; support universal amnesty for undocumented immigrants.
Climate and Environment
Fund Great Salt Lake refill and water conservation; oppose data centers like Stratos project.
LGBTQ+ Rights
Expand gender-affirming healthcare; repeal discriminatory laws including bathroom bans, sports restrictions, and healthcare limits for trans individuals.
Reproductive Rights
Overturn abortion ban; decriminalize abortion and protect providers.
Healthcare
Advocate single-payer universal healthcare system.
Other
Condemn war in Iran and introduce related resolutions; support Palestinian liberation via divestment and BDS; reduce money in politics and protect elections.
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