Are Democrats even doing anything in Utah?
Our case for "The New Utah Way"
It’s September 23rd, and you might be asking yourself: “What is Substack? How did I get on this list? And should I reread “What Happened” by Hillary Rodham Clinton again or am I still too fragile?
Well, hi, it’s us, Elevate PAC. We originally tried to call ourselves "Life Elevated," but apparently, that’s copyrighted. So here we are as Elevate PAC—a name that still captures our mission to lift Utah’s political landscape to new heights.
So, what exactly is Elevate PAC? Glad you asked! We’re not just another political action committee. We’re here to shake up Utah politics, eliminate single-party control at all levels of government, and elevate leaders who inspire. If you’ve been feeling like Utah’s political landscape needs a fresh perspective, that’s where we come in.
But Elevate PAC is just the beginning. Behind the scenes, Elevate Strategies—our political consulting company—is the engine driving our vision forward. We’re all about strategic investments, mentorship, and building long-term political power in Utah. With us, it’s not just about winning elections—it’s about creating a sustainable and inclusive political movement.
Now, you might be wondering: Are Democrats even doing anything in Utah? Are there any "normal" Democrats here? And seriously, why is the legislature so bad?
We at Elevate PAC are here to answer those questions and share some of the more entertaining aspects of working in local politics. Spoiler alert: It’s definitely not like House of Cards, The West Wing, or Primary Colors (for all the Clinton-heads out there). It’s a lot messier, much more personal, and dare we say, more fun. Think more Parks and Rec with a dash of Veep. But overall, there’s joy, heartbreak, and constant optimism.
So, Why Utah?
You’ve probably heard Utah being called a "weird" state, and you might have a point. We’ve got drive-thru soda shops serving up "dirty sodas" instead of coffee, and for a long time, we had bars that were technically members-only clubs thanks to some quirky liquor laws. But there’s more to this state than its quirks.
Utah is changing. The state is the fastest-growing in the nation, and with that growth comes a new political landscape. While it might surprise some, Utah has a deep history of progressive action—after all, it was the first state to grant women the right to vote. Our goal at Elevate PAC is to tap into that history and help drive a new era of political change by elevating leaders who reflect the true values of Utahns today.
What does this all mean? It means that Utah could be the next swing state. Yes, you heard that right. We’re talking about real possibilities here—competitive races, flipped seats, and a new political dynamic that reflects the changing values of our state.
Who We Are
Hey there, I’m Jackie Morgan! With over a decade of navigating the all-too-delicate political landscape in Utah, I’ve been around the block—from the Obama Campaign, working as the Deputy Communications Director for Mike Weinholtz’s gubernatorial campaign, co-founding another consulting firm in Utah, Volunteer Director on Better Boundaries, and working for more than 25 local candidates as a Campaign Manager or Senior Advisor. Most recently, as the National Campaigns Director at Stand for Children, I found my true passion for electing school board candidates across the country.
When I’m not buried in data, you might find me tumbling rocks (yes, really), playing trivia (unlike some political candidates, I don’t lose), or trying to find more people to join Gabi and my jigsaw puzzle swap. I’m also known for my sweet tooth—seriously, if there is a meal that ends without a sweet treat, don’t invite me.
I’m your friendly neighborhood data nerd, and while I’m deeply serious about making political change, we don’t always have to be. Let’s be honest, politics can be a wild ride, and I’m here to make sure we enjoy the journey.
Hey, I’m Gabi Finlayson, a Utah native who’s been on a whirlwind through some of the most critical political battlegrounds in the country. I’ve worked on Pete Buttigieg’s presidential campaign in Iowa, boosted youth voter turnout for Joe Biden in New Hampshire, and somehow became the youngest Chief of Staff in Massachusetts history—all before I turned 23. Oh, and I called off my engagement after seven years this year because, let’s be real, political campaigns are the love of my life. Tragic, but kind of funny, right (please laugh)?
After my time living my East Coast fantasy, I came back to Utah to give local candidates the tough-love guidance they need. We started Elevate Strategies, and now I’m known as "The Robot" by our clients because I’m a little too direct and annoyingly focused on the work. Which is hilarious, considering how much I care (and cry). I just don’t always show it… until I’ve had a drink or two and overshare, then pretend it was all part of my plan.
When I’m not deep in strategy, you can find me on the lookout for a glass of orange wine to sip on a patio or losing a game of pool. You’ll usually catch me in a leather jacket, blacked-out sunglasses, way too much gold jewelry, and some dumb tattoos. I’m just trying to survive this wild political life with style, humor, and a bit of chaos.
Hey, I’m Ben Haynes, one of the founders – and the token man – of Elevate Strategies. You’ll hear more about the company later, but for now, here’s what you really need to know: I’ve got a dog named Wallace, a fiancé who’s much cooler than me, and I’ll see literally any movie in theaters (unless it’s scary—hard pass). I’m that guy who wears rings, and I’ll pick a phone call over a text every single day. I live in Washington D.C. but find myself flying to Salt Lake more often than I probably should. Public safety is a passion of mine (derogatory). I spent five years as the Communications Director for the best DA on the planet, and apparently, some of it rubbed off on me. But deep down, I’m an organizer at heart.
After living in strangers’ guest rooms and basements across the country, I can’t help but be romantic about politics. My political journey started as the “Junior Student on the Board” of Park City School District. I studied Political Science (never changed my major once, thank you very much) and thought I was Peace Corps material… until I realized I wasn’t that tough. Then, I found my way into the world of politics, working on Count My Vote and Sim Gill’s campaign for Salt Lake County DA, before packing my car and joining the Hillary Clinton campaign. Spoiler alert: we lost. :(
After that, I came back to Utah, ran for City Council (didn’t go great), and then became the Communications Director for the Salt Lake County DA. Now, I’m living in Washington D.C. with my fiancé and silly dog, Wallace.
Preview of the upcoming Substacks
Most competitive down-ballot races this year (coming next week!)
Prove it to me: Utah could turn blue
Our favorite sleeper candidates
Political ad review
And yes, you are strong enough to read “What Happened,” but don’t worry, you don’t have to.
Donate to us to change Utah: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/elevatepac
Also, donate to some super cool candidates: https://app.oath.vote/set?p=utah
Elevate PAC is working to eliminate single-party control at all levels of our state’s government by elevating inspirational leaders, activating the new Utah majority, and centering our shared values and common purpose.
Our blueprint is to recruit and train candidates, invest early, support strategically, and build relationships.
Paid for by Elevate PAC