Your feedback ensures we stay focused on the facts that matter to you most—take our survey

Jessica Wignall

From Ballotpedia
Jump to: navigation, search
BP-Initials-UPDATED.png
This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.
Jessica Wignall
Image of Jessica Wignall

Unaffiliated

Elections and appointments
Last election

November 5, 2024

Education

High school

Kearns High School

Bachelor's

Weber State University, 2007

Personal
Birthplace
Salt Lake City, Utah
Profession
Banking professional
Contact

Jessica Wignall (unaffiliated) ran for election to the Utah House of Representatives to represent District 39. She lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.

Wignall completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Jessica Wignall was born in Salt Lake City, Utah. She earned a high school diploma from Kearns High School, and a bachelor's degree from Weber State University in 2007. Her career experience includes working as a banking professional.[1]

Elections

2024

See also: Utah House of Representatives elections, 2024

General election

General election for Utah House of Representatives District 39

Incumbent Ken Ivory defeated Jessica Wignall in the general election for Utah House of Representatives District 39 on November 5, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Ken Ivory
Ken Ivory (R)
 
55.3
 
8,799
Image of Jessica Wignall
Jessica Wignall (Unaffiliated) Candidate Connection
 
44.7
 
7,112

Total votes: 15,911
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Democratic primary election

The Democratic primary election was canceled. Kate Staples advanced from the Democratic primary for Utah House of Representatives District 39.

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Utah House of Representatives District 39

Incumbent Ken Ivory defeated Lisa Dean in the Republican primary for Utah House of Representatives District 39 on June 25, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Ken Ivory
Ken Ivory
 
57.4
 
2,281
Lisa Dean
 
42.6
 
1,691

Total votes: 3,972
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Democratic convention

Democratic convention for Utah House of Representatives District 39

Kate Staples advanced from the Democratic convention for Utah House of Representatives District 39 on March 30, 2024.

Candidate
Kate Staples (D)

Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Republican convention

Republican convention for Utah House of Representatives District 39

Incumbent Ken Ivory defeated Lisa Dean in the Republican convention for Utah House of Representatives District 39 on April 13, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Ken Ivory
Ken Ivory (R)
 
76.0
 
38
Lisa Dean (R)
 
24.0
 
12

Total votes: 50
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Wignall in this election.

Pledges

Wignall signed the following pledges.

  • U.S. Term Limits

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Jessica Wignall completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Wignall's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

I'm a native Utahn. I was raised in Kearns, Utah and graduated from Weber State University. Currently, I work in regulatory compliance.
  • Adequate funding for public education is essential to providing every child with access to quality learning, regardless of background. It ensures schools can hire qualified teachers who feel valued by their districts, offer updated textbooks and technology, and maintain safe facilities. Funding also supports vital programs like arts, sports, and extracurricular activities that contribute to a well-rounded education. Public schools are the foundation of an equitable society, preparing students for future success. Without proper funding, achievement gaps widen, and students are left behind, making sustained investment in public education critical for a brighter future.
  • Corporations buying single-family homes have worsened the affordable housing crisis, often outbidding families and driving up prices. This limits access to homeownership for individuals and increases housing insecurity. Implementing statutes to regulate corporate purchasing can help restore balance. These regulations could include capping the number of homes a corporation can buy, imposing higher taxes on vacant properties, or restricting the conversion of homes into short-term rentals. Such measures would prioritize homeownership for families, ensuring housing remains accessible and reducing the impact of corporate-driven market inflation.
  • Like many Utahns, I have a deep love for our mountains and enjoy spending time outdoors year-round, even snowshoeing in the colder months. Utah’s natural beauty is one of the key reasons I chose to run for HD39. Our residents and visitors are fortunate to have access to some of the best outdoor recreation in the country. Protecting and maintaining our public lands and national parks is a top priority for me, ensuring future generations can continue to experience and enjoy the unique outdoor opportunities that make Utah so special.
I’m passionate about public policy areas that focus on equity, sustainability, and community well-being. First, I believe in fully funding public education to ensure every student has access to quality learning and teachers have the resources they need. I also care deeply about addressing the affordable housing crisis, supporting policies that expand housing options and protect renters. Protecting Utah’s environment is critical, and I advocate for conservation and clean energy solutions. Lastly, I’m committed to healthcare access, ensuring affordable care, including reproductive and fertility treatments, without government overreach.
I look up to my mother as a shining example of resilience in the face of adversity. Throughout my life, she has been a constant source of strength and inspiration. Raising my brother and me on her own, she faced numerous challenges with unwavering determination and grace.

From a young age, I witnessed her tireless work ethic and ability to adapt to difficult circumstances. She instilled in us the values of hard work, perseverance, and compassion. Her ability to navigate life's hurdles, while ensuring we felt loved and supported, has profoundly shaped my perspective on life.

My mother’s resilience taught me the importance of facing challenges head-on and finding strength within oneself. Her journey is a testament to the power of dedication and love, and it motivates me to pursue my goals with the same tenacity she exemplified. I aspire to honor her legacy by embracing challenges and advocating for those who face similar struggles.

In a world that often tests our resolve, my mother’s example reminds me that resilience and hope can lead to remarkable growth and change. She has not only shaped who I am but has also inspired me to strive for a future where I can make a positive impact on others, just as she has made in my life.
For an elected official, several key characteristics and principles are essential to effective leadership:

Integrity: An elected official must be honest and transparent in their actions and decisions. .

Accountability: Officials must be accountable to the people they serve.

Empathy: A good leader should listen to and understand the needs and concerns of their community. Empathy allows an official to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and craft policies that address their real-life challenges.

Collaboration: The ability to work with others—across political divides, with community organizations, and alongside stakeholders—is crucial for an elected official.

Commitment to Public Service: An elected official should prioritize the common good over personal interests.

Open-mindedness: Leaders should be open to new ideas, feedback, and alternative viewpoints. Public policy is complex, and effective officials must be willing to adapt and evolve based on evidence and community input.

Resilience: Resilience, persistence, and the ability to handle criticism are important for navigating obstacles while staying focused on goals.

These qualities ensure that an elected official can effectively represent their community, foster trust, and work toward positive change.
I believe several key qualities would make me a successful officeholder:

Strong Communication Skills: I can effectively convey ideas and engage with constituents, ensuring their voices are heard and understood.

Empathy and Compassion: My deep love for family and community drives me to understand the diverse needs and concerns of the people I serve.

Resilience: I have the ability to face challenges head-on and adapt to changing circumstances, which is crucial in a political environment.

Commitment to Transparency: I prioritize accountability and ethical governance, believing that transparency builds trust within the community.

Collaborative Spirit: I value teamwork and cooperation, recognizing that the best solutions often come from diverse perspectives and collaborative efforts.

Passion for Advocacy: My dedication to education, environmental conservation, and community engagement fuels my desire to create positive change.

Together, these qualities position me to effectively represent my constituents, advocate for their needs, and foster a sense of community and trust in government.
The core responsibilities of a state legislature are crucial to the functioning of state government and ensuring the well-being of its residents. First and foremost, lawmaking is the legislature's primary role. Legislators draft, debate, and pass laws that address the needs of their constituents, from public safety and education to healthcare and the environment. This includes revising outdated laws and ensuring that new policies reflect current societal issues and challenges.

Another vital responsibility is budget oversight. State legislatures are tasked with approving the state’s budget, determining how funds are allocated across various public services and programs. This requires careful consideration of resources to ensure that areas such as education, infrastructure, public health, and social services receive adequate funding.

Representation is another key function. Legislators are elected to serve the interests of their constituents, meaning they must listen to the needs and concerns of the people they represent. Through public forums, town halls, and community engagement, state legislators ensure their constituents have a voice in the legislative process.

Oversight of the executive branch is also a critical responsibility. State legislatures ensure that the governor and executive agencies implement laws as intended and hold them accountable for their actions through hearings, investigations, and audits.

Additionally, state legislators are responsible for constituent services, helping individuals navigate state programs or resolve issues with government agencies. Whether it's helping a resident access healthcare, address an unemployment issue, or respond to community concerns, this service fosters trust and ensures government remains responsive.
The Challenger disaster on January 28, 1986, is a significant memory from my childhood. I was in second grade when I watched the shuttle explode on live television, along with my classmates. We spent most of the day glued to the news, grappling with the shock and confusion of such a tragic event.
I worked in the video rental area of Ream's grocery store, and worked there for a year and a half. Several friends from school also worked at Ream's. It was the perfect high school job.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is my favorite book because it captures the essence of pursuing one's dreams and listening to one's heart. The journey of Santiago, a shepherd who embarks on a quest to discover his personal legend, resonates deeply with me. His adventure teaches that the path to self-discovery is often fraught with challenges, yet these obstacles are vital for growth and understanding.

Additionally, the themes of interconnectedness and the pursuit of knowledge resonate strongly with my values. The interactions between Santiago and various characters highlight the significance of relationships and the wisdom gained through shared experiences. This reinforces my belief in the power of community and learning from others.
If I could be any fictional character, I would choose Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice. Elizabeth embodies a remarkable blend of intelligence, wit, and independence, which resonates with my values. She navigates societal expectations with grace while remaining true to herself, demonstrating a strong sense of self-worth and determination.

Her ability to challenge norms and assert her opinions, particularly in matters of love and marriage, inspires me to advocate for my beliefs and values. Elizabeth’s keen observations and sharp humor highlight the importance of critical thinking and the courage to question conventional wisdom.

Moreover, her journey of self-discovery and growth reflects the idea that true happiness comes from understanding oneself and embracing one’s individuality. Elizabeth’s relationships, especially with Mr. Darcy, emphasize the significance of communication, empathy, and personal growth in building meaningful connections.
The ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature is built on collaboration, respect, and clear communication. Both should work together to address citizens' needs, uphold their distinct roles, and promote bipartisan solutions. This partnership fosters responsive governance and accountability for effective policymaking.
Over the next decade, Utah faces several significant challenges. Rapid population growth puts pressure on housing, infrastructure, and public services, leading to increased demand for affordable housing and transportation solutions. Additionally, water scarcity due to climate change necessitates sustainable management of our water resources. As we strive for economic growth, ensuring access to quality education and healthcare is crucial to meet the needs of a diverse population. Environmental issues, particularly air quality and land conservation, require proactive measures to protect our natural resources. Finally, fostering inclusive communities amidst changing demographics is vital for maintaining social cohesion and resilience in the face of these challenges.
Experienced legislators may better understand the complexities of governance, fostering effective collaboration and negotiation with colleagues. However, fresh perspectives from individuals without prior political experience can also be valuable, bringing new ideas and representing diverse communities. Ultimately, a balance of experience and fresh viewpoints can lead to more effective governance, addressing the needs of constituents while promoting innovation in policymaking.
Yes, building relationships with other legislators is highly beneficial. Strong connections foster collaboration and facilitate bipartisan efforts, which are essential for effective governance. When legislators understand each other’s perspectives, they can work together to find common ground on issues, leading to more comprehensive and inclusive policies. These relationships also enhance communication and trust, making it easier to address challenges and advocate for constituents’ needs. Ultimately, networking among legislators can create a more cohesive and productive legislative environment, benefiting the state as a whole.
Stewardship of Utah, Better Boundaries Accountability PAC, United Utah Party, Jordan Education Association, Canyons Education Association, Planned Parenthood.
I believe that financial transparency and government accountability are fundamental pillars of good governance. Transparency in how public funds are managed ensures that taxpayers know exactly how their money is being used, fostering trust between the government and its citizens. Governments must provide clear, accessible information on budgets, expenditures, and decision-making processes, allowing the public to hold officials accountable for financial stewardship.

Accountability means that elected officials and government agencies must answer for their actions, especially when it comes to spending taxpayer dollars. I support policies that require regular audits, clear reporting on public projects, and strict oversight to prevent misuse of funds or corruption. When governments operate transparently and are held accountable, it not only prevents financial mismanagement but also strengthens democracy by ensuring that public servants remain focused on serving their communities.
I support evaluating the current state ballot initiative process to ensure it is accessible, transparent, and effective. Potential changes could include simplifying the process for gathering signatures and increasing public awareness about initiatives. Additionally, establishing clearer guidelines for the funding of campaigns and promoting transparency in the financial aspects of initiatives can enhance trust in the process. It's also important to consider measures that ensure initiatives are thoroughly vetted for their potential impact on the community and governance. Ultimately, the goal should be to empower citizens while maintaining the integrity of the democratic process.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign finance summary


Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.


Jessica Wignall campaign contribution history
YearOfficeStatusContributionsExpenditures
2024* Utah House of Representatives District 39Lost general$40,254 $-30,435
Grand total$40,254 $-30,435
Sources: OpenSecretsFederal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

See also


External links

Footnotes

  1. Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 7, 2024


Current members of the Utah House of Representatives
Leadership
Speaker of the House:Mike Schultz
Majority Leader:Casey Snider
Minority Leader:Angela Romero
Representatives
District 1
District 2
District 3
District 4
District 5
District 6
District 7
District 8
District 9
District 10
District 11
Katy Hall (R)
District 12
District 13
District 14
District 15
District 16
District 17
District 18
District 19
District 20
District 21
District 22
District 23
District 24
District 25
District 26
District 27
District 28
District 29
District 30
District 31
District 32
District 33
District 34
District 35
District 36
District 37
District 38
District 39
Ken Ivory (R)
District 40
District 41
District 42
District 43
District 44
District 45
District 46
District 47
District 48
District 49
District 50
District 51
District 52
District 53
District 54
District 55
District 56
District 57
District 58
District 59
District 60
District 61
District 62
District 63
District 64
District 65
District 66
District 67
District 68
District 69
District 70
District 71
Rex Shipp (R)
District 72
District 73
District 74
District 75
Republican Party (61)
Democratic Party (14)