Brandon Young

Education

Supporting teachers means keeping class sizes manageable. Raising class sizes as a cost-saving measure places an unfair burden on teachers and can hurt student learning. Research from Tennessee’s 1985 Project STAR demonstrated that smaller classes improve teaching conditions, boost student performance, reduce disruptions, and lower retention rates. To ensure every student receives quality instruction and every teacher has the support they need, no elementary classroom should exceed 20 students without a mandatory additional aide to assist with student learning. Learn more

As a state, we should be focused on strengthening the systems that help students succeed: expanding access to school counselors and mental health resources, supporting teachers and staff who work to prevent bullying, and encouraging respectful dialogue and understanding in our classrooms. Schools should reflect the diversity of experiences within our communities and teach students the skills needed to live and work together in a healthy democracy. Learn more

Public schools have always played a vital role in preparing young people not just academically, but as informed citizens in a diverse democracy. Limiting discussion of history, identity, and social issues risks narrowing the educational experience and undermining the critical thinking skills that students need to succeed in college, the workforce, and civic life. Protecting our education system means standing up for teachers, defending academic freedom, and ensuring that curriculum decisions are guided by educators and communities—not political agendas. We must invest in strong public schools, support educators who teach facts and critical thinking, and ensure that every student feels seen, respected, and prepared for the future. Learn more

Public education is one of the most important investments we make in our communities. Voucher programs are often framed as expanding choice, but the real issue is funding. Vouchers divert taxpayer dollars away from neighborhood public schools that educate the vast majority of Utah students. When public funds are shifted into private schools, those institutions are not required to meet the same academic standards, financial transparency, or accountability that public schools must follow. That weakens the stability and quality of the overall education system. Learn more

Environment / Energy

Our parks draw millions of visitors each year, supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and preserving landscapes that belong to all Americans. Protecting these parks means safeguarding clean air, wildlife habitats, and public lands for future generations. Responsible stewardship ensures that Utah’s natural beauty remains a source of pride, recreation, and economic strength for decades to come. Learn more

Nuclear energy offers clear benefits. It is a reliable, carbon-free source of power that can help meet growing energy demand while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. When built and operated with strict safety standards, modern nuclear facilities can provide stable electricity with a relatively small environmental footprint. For these reasons, nuclear energy deserves serious consideration as part of a balanced energy strategy. At the same time, nuclear power also carries important risks and trade-offs that must be addressed transparently. Safety, long-term waste storage, environmental protection, and community oversight must remain top priorities. New technologies must meet the highest standards before they are fully implemented. I have personally toured facilities operated by NuScale Power in Oregon, Idaho, and Tennessee, and those experiences gave me confidence in the technological potential of modern reactors. The project proposed for the Brigham City area is expected to use a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) design—an emerging nuclear technology that is smaller, more flexible, and designed with advanced safety systems. Learn more

At the same time, Utah should ensure that industrial and commercial polluters meet strong, enforceable air-quality standards. Transparent monitoring, modern emissions technology, and consistent enforcement protect both public health and businesses that are already operating responsibly. Clean air solutions should focus on smart investments rather than higher costs for working families. Clean air is not a partisan issue—it’s a public health issue, an economic issue, and a quality-of-life issue. By investing in cleaner transportation, energy efficiency, and responsible environmental standards, Utah can protect the health of its communities while building a more sustainable and prosperous future. Learn more

Agricultural Water Leasing to allow water to flow into the lake. Learn more

Healthcare

Support legislation lowering prescription drug costs. Learn more

I will support increased funding for community mental health centers and the expansion of mobile crisis response teams. These services provide immediate, professional care during behavioral health emergencies and help reduce unnecessary hospitalizations, incarceration, and long-term costs. Learn more

Housing

Fair-market rentals with clear tenant protections. Learn more

Taxes / Budget

Reduction or elimination of sales tax on essentials such as food, hygiene products, and diapers. Learn more

Create tiered tax incentives for businesses that pay higher wages and provide quality benefits. Learn more

Wages / Job Benefits

Protect the right of workers to organize and collectively bargain without intimidation or retaliation. Learn more

Strengthen pay transparency laws so workers know what jobs pay before they apply. Learn more

While I favor raising the federal minimum wage, I also support Utah increasing wages to reflect general affordability. Learn more