Sara Cimmers

Sara Cimmers (Democratic Party) ran for election to the Utah House of Representatives to represent District 45. She lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.

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

Biography

Sara Cimmers was born in Salt Lake City, Utah. She earned a high school diploma from Murray High School, a bachelor's degree from the University of Phoenix in 2007, and an M.D. from the University of Phoenix in 2009. Her career experience includes working as a real estate professional.^[1]

Elections

2024

General election

General election for Utah House of Representatives District 45

Tracy Miller defeated Sara Cimmers in the general election for Utah House of Representatives District 45 on November 5, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Tracy Miller (R)	67.0	13,930
	Sara Cimmers (D)	33.0	6,871

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 20,801
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Democratic primary election

The Democratic primary election was canceled. Sara Cimmers advanced from the Democratic primary for Utah House of Representatives District 45.

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Utah House of Representatives District 45

Tracy Miller defeated Rich Cunningham in the Republican primary for Utah House of Representatives District 45 on June 25, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Tracy Miller	55.5	3,365
	Rich Cunningham	44.5	2,694

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 6,059
= 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.
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Democratic convention

Democratic convention for Utah House of Representatives District 45

Sara Cimmers advanced from the Democratic convention for Utah House of Representatives District 45 on March 30, 2024.

		Candidate
✔		Sara Cimmers (D)

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified.
= 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.
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Republican convention

Republican Convention for Utah House of Representatives District 45

Select round:

The following candidates advanced in the ranked-choice voting election: Rich Cunningham in round 2 , and Tracy Miller in round 2 . The results of Round are displayed below. To see the results of other rounds, use the dropdown menu above to select a round and the table will update.

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 80
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Cimmers in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

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

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Sara Cimmers, and I’m running to represent District 45 in the Utah House of Representatives. I spent 15 years as an educator, working with students with disabilities and their families, which has deepened my understanding of the challenges facing our education system and the importance of supporting both students and educators. As a mother, real estate professional, and community advocate, I strive to balance personal, professional, and civic responsibilities. I’m committed to safeguarding opportunities for every Utahn to achieve prosperity, focusing on housing affordability, strengthening public education, and empowering the next generation of leaders. I believe in elevating governance with kindness and compassion, and I’m determined to advocate for policies that make a real difference in our community.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Elevating Governance with Kindness and Compassion: I am committed to fostering a political environment where decisions are made with empathy, respect, and care for the well-being of all constituents.
Safeguarding Prosperity for Every Utahn: I believe in ensuring that every Utahn has the opportunity to pursue success and prosperity, with a focus on addressing key issues like equality, housing affordability and economic opportunity.
Empowering Utah’s Future Leaders: I am an advocate for investment in education and the next generation, to provide young people with the resources and opportunities they need to become the leaders of tomorrow.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am deeply passionate about three key areas of public policy: housing affordability, education, and economic opportunity. Housing is a fundamental need, and I believe the government should support people on their path to homeownership through incentives and programs rather than controlling the market. I’m also a strong advocate for better funding in public education, ensuring teachers receive living wages, benefits, and respect as professionals. Finally, I am committed to creating policies that foster economic growth and provide every Utahn with the opportunity to prosper, especially through small business support and fair wages.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

There are so many powerful female role models that come to mind, it's hard to name them all. However, I think most often about my mother-in-law and the deep admiration I have for her. She has raised an incredible family and welcomed me into it with open arms. Her strength, compassion, and dedication to her loved ones continue to inspire me.

I’m also incredibly grateful for the countless female mentors in my life who have guided and supported me along the way. While I haven’t had a natural mother figure of my own to emulate, these women have shaped my perspective, helping me grow into the person I am today.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

I would recommend 'The Politics of Kindness' by Dr. Brian Goldman. This book explores how empathy, compassion, and kindness can be powerful tools for leadership and governance, which aligns closely with my own political philosophy. I believe that by leading with kindness and putting people first, we can create policies that not only address immediate challenges but also build a stronger, more inclusive future for all. For a deeper understanding of how I approach issues like education, housing, and economic opportunity, I also find 'The Power Broker' by Robert Caro insightful, as it shows how decisions made in leadership can have long-lasting impacts on communities

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

An elected official should embody integrity, empathy, and accountability. Integrity is essential for building trust with constituents and ensuring decisions are made for the right reasons, not for personal gain. Empathy allows elected officials to truly understand and represent the needs of their community, approaching policy decisions with compassion and fairness. Accountability ensures that officials remain transparent and responsible for their actions, listening to their constituents and being willing to answer for their decisions. I believe these principles are the foundation for good governance and effective leadership.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I believe several qualities would contribute to my success as an officeholder. First and foremost, I have a deep commitment to public service and a genuine desire to improve the lives of my constituents. This dedication drives me to listen actively to the concerns of the community and advocate for policies that address their needs.

My colorful life experiences have shaped my perspective, allowing me to connect with a diverse range of individuals and understand their unique challenges. I have a strong ability to give voice to the voiceless, ensuring that those who feel marginalized are heard and represented.

Additionally, I value collaboration and believe in the power of teamwork. Building strong relationships with fellow legislators and community leaders is essential for creating effective solutions. My ability to communicate clearly and foster open dialogue helps bridge gaps and unite diverse perspectives.

Moreover, my resilience and adaptability allow me to navigate challenges effectively while remaining focused on my goals. I understand that the political landscape can be unpredictable, and being flexible is key to finding solutions in ever-changing circumstances.

I also have a compulsion to speak up when I believe something isn’t right, which drives me to advocate for justice and equity. Finally, my strong work ethic and commitment to transparency ensure that I approach my responsibilities with integrity and accountability. I believe these qualities will enable me to serve my community effectively and make a positive impact as an officeholder.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilities of a Representative in the Utah House include listening to the needs and concerns of constituents, crafting and supporting legislation that improves the quality of life in our state, and holding the government accountable to ensure it serves the people effectively and ethically. It’s essential to collaborate with fellow legislators to find solutions that benefit the community while also standing firm on principles that protect the rights and opportunities of every Utahn. Additionally, a Representative must provide transparency and clear communication, keeping constituents informed and involved in the legislative process.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to leave a legacy of empowerment and positive change within my community. I aspire to be known as someone who championed the voices of those who felt unheard and fought for policies that uplift and support all individuals, particularly the marginalized.

By advocating for access to quality education, mental health resources, and social equity, I hope to create a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. I want future generations to look back and see a community that prioritized compassion, understanding, and collaboration.

Additionally, I aim to inspire others to take an active role in their communities and encourage them to stand up for what they believe is right. It is essential to me that everyone who meets me feels that I truly love them and only want good things for them. When individuals feel empowered and supported, we can build a stronger, more resilient society.

Ultimately, my legacy will be defined by the lasting impact I make on the lives of others and the principles of justice and equity I help to instill in our community.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first historical event that I vividly remember was the Columbine High School massacre when I was 17 years old. I felt stunned and in complete disbelief that such a horrible act of violence could occur in a school like mine. This tragedy profoundly impacted me and my peers, sparking conversations about safety, mental health, and the need for change in our communities.

The fact that the same needs for safety and mental health support still exist today weighs heavily on me. It reinforces my commitment to advocating for policies that address these critical issues and ensure that our schools and communities are safe and supportive environments for everyone.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My very first job was as a sales clerk at a furniture store, where I worked for a little less than a year. This experience taught me the fundamental principles of being a responsible coworker, such as teamwork, communication, and accountability. I learned the importance of supporting my colleagues and fulfilling my responsibilities as an employee, which has shaped my work ethic and approach to collaboration in all my endeavors.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

It's so silly- but there is currently an IHOP commercial with singing syrup bottles that has been rattling around in my head for the last two days.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

I believe the ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature should be characterized by collaboration, respect, and open communication. The governor plays a crucial role in setting the state’s agenda and implementing policies, while the legislature serves as the voice of the people, crafting laws that reflect the needs and values of the community. A strong partnership between the two ensures that the legislative process is efficient and effective, allowing for a balanced approach to governance.

In this ideal relationship, both parties should work together to address the state’s challenges, seeking common ground on important issues such as education, healthcare, and economic development. Regular dialogue, transparency, and a shared commitment to serving the public will foster trust and enable more effective governance for all Utahns.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

I believe Utah's greatest challenge over the next decade will be managing rapid growth and ensuring housing affordability. As our state continues to attract new residents and businesses, we face the pressing need to provide adequate housing options that are accessible and affordable for all Utahns. This includes addressing the demand for diverse housing types, such as single-family homes, affordable condominiums, and rental properties.

In addition, we must ensure that our infrastructure, education system, and public services keep pace with this growth. Balancing development with sustainability, preserving our natural resources, and ensuring that every community has the support it needs will be crucial. By fostering collaboration between local governments, developers, and community stakeholders, we can create a thriving environment that benefits all Utahns while addressing these critical challenges.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

While previous experience in government or politics can provide valuable insights into the legislative process, I believe that it is not strictly necessary for effective leadership. What’s most important is a commitment to serving the community, a willingness to learn, and the ability to listen to constituents. Diverse backgrounds can enrich the legislature, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the table.

Individuals from various professions and experiences—whether in education, business, or community advocacy—can bring unique skills and understanding to address the needs of their constituents. Ultimately, effective legislators are those who prioritize transparency, accountability, and the interests of the people they serve, regardless of their prior political experience.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Yes, I believe building relationships with other legislators is essential for effective governance. Collaboration and communication are key to finding common ground on important issues and developing bipartisan solutions that benefit our constituents. By fostering strong relationships, legislators can share insights, learn from one another’s experiences, and work together to address the challenges facing our communities.

These relationships also facilitate a more respectful and productive legislative process, as mutual trust allows for open dialogue, negotiation, and compromise. Ultimately, a cohesive legislative body can better serve the needs of the people, advocate for effective policies, and drive meaningful change in our state

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I admire the leadership of Olene Walker, the first female governor of Utah and a former state legislator. Throughout her career, she demonstrated a strong commitment to public service, particularly in areas such as education, economic development, and women’s issues. Walker’s ability to build bipartisan support and her focus on practical solutions for the challenges facing Utahns are qualities I strive to emulate.

Her dedication to fostering inclusive policies and her willingness to advocate for underrepresented communities inspire me to approach my role as a legislator with compassion and a focus on collaboration. I aim to follow in her footsteps by promoting policies that empower individuals and strengthen our communities

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

While my primary focus right now is on representing District 45 in the Utah House of Representatives, I remain open to the possibility of serving in different capacities in the future. My commitment to public service and making a positive impact in my community drives my political ambitions. Should opportunities arise that align with my values and goals, I would certainly consider them. Ultimately, my priority is to advocate for policies that improve the lives of Utahns, regardless of the office I hold.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

I believe that the legislature should have a significant role in overseeing the use of emergency powers. While it’s essential for the executive branch to respond swiftly to emergencies, legislative oversight ensures that such powers are exercised responsibly and transparently.

The legislature represents the voice of the people and is in a unique position to evaluate the necessity and duration of emergency powers. It is also crucial that these powers remain in check by the judicial branch, which plays a vital role in upholding the rule of law and protecting individual rights. By establishing clear guidelines and parameters for the use of emergency powers, we can maintain a balance of power and prevent any potential abuse of authority. This oversight is essential to uphold democratic principles and safeguard the rights and freedoms of all citizens during times of crisis.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

If elected, the first bill I would introduce would focus on increasing funding for public education in Utah. This legislation would aim to provide essential resources for our schools, ensuring that teachers receive competitive salaries and that students have access to the materials and support they need to succeed.

Investing in education is fundamental to the future of our state and is critical for fostering an educated and skilled workforce. By prioritizing education funding, we can create a strong foundation for all Utahns, empowering our children to reach their full potential and ensuring that our communities thrive. This bill would reflect my commitment to uplifting our education system and addressing one of the most pressing issues facing our state.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Mental Health Now

Women's Democratic Club of Utah
Center for Freethought Equality
Utah Stonewall Democrats
Young Democrats of Salt Lake County
Utah Women & Politics
Planned Parenthood Action Committee
Moms Demand Action
Jordan Canyons Political Action Committee (Dual Endorsement)

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What committees interest you?

I am particularly interested in serving on committees that align with my priorities for housing, education, and economic growth. The Education Committee is of great importance to me, as I’m passionate about advocating for better funding and support for public education, ensuring that teachers receive fair wages and that students have the resources they need to succeed. I’m also interested in the Business and Labor Committee, where I can work to promote policies that encourage small business development, fair wages, and economic opportunity for all Utahns. Lastly, the Political Subdivisions Committee, which deals with local governance, would provide an excellent platform to address housing affordability and urban planning, which are crucial to the prosperity of our communities.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I believe financial transparency and government accountability are non-negotiable principles for maintaining trust between elected officials and the people they serve. Taxpayers have the right to know how their money is being spent and to expect that funds are managed responsibly. Every dollar must be accounted for with clear and accessible reporting. Furthermore, elected officials must be held accountable for their decisions and actions, ensuring that they act in the best interest of their constituents rather than special interests. A transparent government is critical to fostering trust, empowering citizens, and ensuring that leadership remains honest, ethical, and focused on serving the public.

Do you support or oppose changes to the current state ballot initiative process? If so, what kind of changes would you consider?

I strongly support the ballot initiative process as a crucial tool for direct democracy. It empowers citizens to have a voice in shaping laws and policies that directly affect their communities and lives. Initiatives allow Utahns to address issues that may not be adequately represented by the legislature, fostering a more engaged and participatory democracy.

While I advocate for maintaining this vital process, I also believe there may be opportunities to enhance its accessibility and transparency. For example, implementing measures that ensure clear communication about proposed initiatives and their implications can help voters make informed decisions.

Any changes should focus on strengthening the initiative process, making it easier for citizens to bring forward their ideas and concerns while ensuring that it remains fair and accountable. Ultimately, protecting and enhancing the ballot initiative process is essential for preserving the democratic rights of all Utahns.

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.

Sara Cimmers campaign contribution history
Year	Office	Status	Contributions	Expenditures
2024*	Utah House of Representatives District 45	Lost general	$7,145	$-4,074
Grand total			$7,145	$-4,074
Sources: OpenSecrets, Federal 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

External links

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Candidate

Utah House of Representatives District 45

Personal

Footnotes

↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 10, 2024

[show]

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

Thomas Peterson (R)

District 2

Mike Petersen (R)

District 3

Jason Thompson (R)

District 4

Tiara Auxier (R)

District 5

Casey Snider (R)

District 6

Matt Gwynn (R)

District 7

Ryan Wilcox (R)

District 8

Jason Kyle (R)

District 9

Jake Sawyer (R)

District 10

Jill Koford (R)

District 11

Katy Hall (R)

District 12

Mike Schultz (R)

District 13

Karen Peterson (R)

District 14

Karianne Lisonbee (R)

District 15

Ariel Defay (R)

District 16

Trevor Lee (R)

District 17

Stewart Barlow (R)

District 18

Paul Cutler (R)

District 19

Raymond Ward (R)

District 20

Melissa Ballard (R)

District 21

Sandra Hollins (D)

District 22

Jen Dailey-Provost (D)

District 23

Hoang Nguyen (D)

District 24

Grant Miller (D)

District 25

Angela Romero (D)

District 26

Matt MacPherson (R)

District 27

Anthony Loubet (R)

District 28

Nicholeen Peck (R)

District 29

Bridger Bolinder (R)

District 30

Jake Fitisemanu (D)

District 31

Verona Mauga (D)

District 32

Sahara Hayes (D)

District 33

Doug Owens (D)

District 34

Carol Moss (D)

District 35

Rosalba Dominguez (D)

District 36

Jim Dunnigan (R)

District 37

Ashlee Matthews (D)

District 38

Cheryl Acton (R)

District 39

Ken Ivory (R)

District 40

Andrew Stoddard (D)

District 41

Gay Lynn Bennion (D)

District 42

Clint Okerlund (R)

District 43

Steven Eliason (R)

District 44

Jordan Teuscher (R)

District 45

Tracy Miller (R)

District 46

Cal Roberts (R)

District 47

Mark Strong (R)

District 48

Doug Fiefia (R)

District 49

Candice Pierucci (R)

District 50

Stephanie Gricius (R)

District 51

Leah Hansen (R)

District 52

Cory Maloy (R)

District 53

Kay Christofferson (R)

District 54

Kristen Chevrier (R)

District 55

Jon Hawkins (R)

District 56

Val Peterson (R)

District 57

Nelson Abbott (R)

District 58

David Shallenberger (R)

District 59

Mike Kohler (R)

District 60

Tyler Clancy (R)

District 61

Lisa Shepherd (R)

District 62

Norman Thurston (R)

District 63

Stephen Whyte (R)

District 64

Jefferson Burton (R)

District 65

Doug Welton (R)

District 66

Troy Shelley (R)

District 67

Christine Watkins (R)

District 68

Scott Chew (R)

District 69

Logan Monson (R)

District 70

Carl Albrecht (R)

District 71

Rex Shipp (R)

District 72

Joseph Elison (R)

District 73

Colin Jack (R)

District 74

Neil Walter (R)

District 75

Walt Brooks (R)

Republican Party (61)

Democratic Party (14)

[1] Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 10, 2024

[1]

	Candidate	%	Total Votes	Transfer	Round eliminated
	Tracy Miller	53.8	42	10	Advanced (2)
	Rich Cunningham	46.2	36	6	Advanced (2)
Submit photo	Steven Roberts	0.0	0	-18	1

	Candidate	%	Total Votes	Transfer	Round eliminated
	Tracy Miller	40.0	32	0	Advanced (2)
	Rich Cunningham	37.5	30	0	Advanced (2)
Submit photo	Steven Roberts	22.5	18	0	1

	v • e State of Utah Salt Lake City (capital)
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Government	Who represents me? \| U.S. President \| U.S. Congress \| Federal courts \| State executives \| State legislature \| State and local courts \| Counties \| Cities \| School districts \| Public policy

Sara Cimmers

Contents

Biography

Elections

2024

General election

General election for Utah House of Representatives District 45

Democratic primary election

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Utah House of Representatives District 45

Democratic convention

Democratic convention for Utah House of Representatives District 45

Republican convention

Republican Convention for Utah House of Representatives District 45

Endorsements

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

Campaign finance summary

See also

External links

Footnotes

Information about voting

2025 Elections

2026 Elections

2024 Election analysis

Trending

Public Policy

Information for candidates

Get Engaged

Services

Additional analysis

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