Pleasant View - Justin Fawson is the newest member of the Utah House of Representatives, appointed to replace Rep. Ryan Wilcox and represent House District 7 which includes North Ogden, Pleasant View and northern parts of Ogden. While only in office a few weeks, Representative Fawson isn’t new to the public service stage, having previously served on the North Ogden City Council. He sat down with a member of Sentinel News staff, and shared a little about his past service, his passion for freedom, and his commitment to his calling.
SN: You’ve mentioned that you don’t like politics. Why did you want to get involved in politics?
Rep. Fawson: I was tired of the politics, of the games and of people using their position to further their own ideas and purposes rather than listening to the people, serving the people, doing what’s in their best interest. There is a need to listen. It may be a vocal minority or not, at least listen.
So now you’re a politician?
Rep. Fawson (with a smile): I am a public servant. I want to know what the people want and need. I want to listen to them and help them and their communities. I’m here to serve them, not myself.
You served in the National Guard and did tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. How did those experiences help you prepare for this role of public service?
Rep. Fawson: I saw what it’s like to live without freedom and then the hope that democracy brings. I helped build democracy in those areas and fought for freedom. Now, the fight is right here. We’ve become too complacent. Our liberties are being stripped slowly away. Fighting for liberty is exhausting. But freedom is fragile and worth fighting for.
SN: How will you tackle representing several different cities and the various needs and interests?
Fawson: I’ve already met with all three mayors (North Ogden, Pleasant View and Ogden). I’ve met with city council members and have learned about the issues in their communities. I’ve spoken with some constituents, too. It’s important to get the ideas and input of the residents. They know what’s going on and what they need.
I represent a bedroom community, and the residents want to keep it that way. But they also want easy access to services without having to drive into Harrisville or Riverdale. It’s important to wisely develop the commercial corridor and increase the tax base there.
What have you heard from your constituents about expanding Medicare?
Rep. Fawson: Very little. I posted the question about the Affordable Care Act on my Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/repjustinfawson), but I didn’t get any response. I have volunteered to be part of the Health Care Reform Task Force. I don’t get paid to do it, but I feel it is important to be there to learn everything I can about the ACA, the Utah Health Care System, and the possible solutions to expanding coverage to Utah’s citizens. We need to find a solution to cover the people in need, but we need to do it the right way. I want to reach out to as many people as I can to talk about [the issues].
What are you most looking forward to doing as a Representative?
Rep. Fawson: I am excited about the process of working out the problem, hearing different perspectives and finding the best solutions.
What is the best way for residents to get a hold of you?
Rep. Fawson: I have a Facebook page that I check and update often. I post questions there about issues we are discussing. I am also holding cottage meetings where people can come and talk to me personally. I also answer email pretty quickly. (justinfawson@le.utah.gov)
Rep. Fawson is up for election to continue serving as the District 7 representative for the next two years. He faces Dan Deuel in the June 24 Primary.
