PRIORITIES

WORKING FOR YOU IN THE LEGISLATURE

As an OB/GYN physician and Air Force veteran, Dr. Rosemary Lesser has spent her life caring for people at their most vulnerable moments. For more than three decades, she delivered thousands of babies, cared for families across generations, and made difficult decisions grounded in science, compassion, and responsibility.

When she served in the Utah House of Representatives from 2021–2024, she brought that same physician’s mindset to public policy: listen carefully, examine the evidence, diagnose the problem honestly, and pursue practical solutions that improve lives.

Rosemary understands that health does not begin in a hospital. It begins in our homes, our schools, and our communities. It depends on clean air and water, strong public education, affordable childcare and housing, economic opportunity, and access to quality healthcare. A healthy Utah requires policies that support families at every stage of life.

In turbulent political times, Rosemary has been — and will continue to be — a steady, trusted voice focused on facts, fairness, and the well-being of Utah families.
In 2026, she is running to return to the Legislature to continue that work — applying the steady judgment of a physician to the challenges facing our state. She believes Utah deserves leaders who prioritize facts over ideology, prevention over crisis, and people over politics.

HEALTHY FAMILIES

HEALTHCARE

As a physician who cared for Utah families for more than three decades, Dr. Rosemary Lesser understands that health care is not an abstract policy debate — it is deeply personal. It affects whether a child receives needed medication, whether a mother recovers safely after childbirth, and whether families can weather a medical crisis without financial devastation.

Rosemary believes health care should be accessible, affordable, and grounded in evidence-based medicine for every Utahn.

During her service in the Utah House of Representatives, she delivered practical, bipartisan solutions that made a real difference:

Improving Access to Medications

In the 2021 General Session, Rosemary passed bipartisan legislation allowing prescriptions — including certain controlled substances — to be transferred between pharmacies. This common-sense reform reduced unnecessary confusion and barriers for patients trying to access their medications. The bill was signed into law by Governor Spencer Cox.

Protecting Mothers After Childbirth

After spending her career caring for pregnant women, Rosemary understood a dangerous gap in coverage for new mothers. In 2023, she sponsored legislation to expand postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to one full year. Medical and mental health complications often arise months after delivery, and extended coverage can be lifesaving for women and their families.

Rosemary believes medical decisions should be guided by patients and their providers — not by politicians. Utah deserves thoughtful health policy that respects professional expertise, protects families, and focuses on outcomes rather than ideology.

As she seeks to return to the Legislature in 2026, Rosemary remains committed to strengthening Utah’s health care system — supporting patients, empowering providers, and ensuring that care remains rooted in science, compassion, and trust.

TAXES & ECONOMIC FAIRNESS

Dr. Rosemary Lesser believes Utah’s tax system should work for families, not against them.
Utah is a prosperous state, but too many working families feel squeezed by rising costs for housing, groceries, childcare, and healthcare. When everyday necessities become more expensive, state policy should provide relief, not make life harder.

That’s why Rosemary stood with thousands of Utahns to oppose a tax restructuring plan that would have increased the state sales tax on food. Taxing groceries hits working families and seniors the hardest. She believes no family should pay more at the checkout line just to put food on the table.

Rosemary has continued to advocate for eliminating the state sales tax on food entirely and for building a tax system that asks everyone to contribute fairly while protecting those who can least afford additional burdens.
For Rosemary, economic policy is about values. It’s about ensuring that the opportunity exists for teachers, small business owners, young families, veterans, and retirees to thrive, not just get by.

In 2026, she is running to continue fighting for a fairer, more balanced tax system that strengthens Utah’s middle class and keeps our economy working for everyone.

PUBLIC EDUCATION

Public education is not optional in Utah — it is a constitutional responsibility. Since our state's founding, Utah’s Constitution has recognized education as essential to opportunity, civic strength, and economic prosperity.
Dr. Rosemary Lesser believes a strong public education system — from early childhood through higher education — is the foundation of a thriving community.

During her time in the Utah House of Representatives, Rosemary served on the Public Education Appropriations Committee, providing oversight and making funding recommendations for Utah’s public schools. She has consistently advocated for increased, stable funding so that students and educators have the resources they need to succeed.

Rosemary believes legislative oversight should focus on accountability, transparency, and student outcomes—not on micromanaging individual classrooms. Educators are trained professionals. They dedicate their careers to child development, subject mastery, and student success. Respecting their expertise leads to better outcomes for children and stronger communities. Undermining their professionalism weakens our entire education system.

She also strongly supports higher education. Institutions like Weber State University are economic engines and community anchors, preparing students for careers in health care, technology, business, and public service. Utah’s future depends on accessible, affordable higher education that equips students with both skills and critical thinking abilities.

Rosemary is a strong advocate for preparing the next generation of scientists, innovators, and problem-solvers. She secured funding for the Ogden Nature Center’s iSEE program, expanding hands-on STEM learning opportunities and inspiring curiosity about the natural world.

As she seeks to return to the Legislature in 2026, Rosemary will continue working to strengthen Utah’s public schools, defend the professionalism of educators, support higher education, and ensure every student regardless of zip code, has access to a high-quality education.

CHILDCARE & WORKING FAMILIES

Affordable, high-quality childcare remains one of the greatest challenges facing Utah families.

For parents of young children, the cost of care can rival a mortgage payment. At the same time, childcare providers operate on thin margins, and educators in early childhood settings are often underpaid despite doing some of the most important work in our communities.

Childcare is not just a family issue — it is an economic issue. When parents cannot find reliable care, they are forced to reduce hours, leave the workforce, or delay career advancement. That hurts families, employers, and Utah’s broader economy.

While federal pandemic-era support temporarily expanded childcare capacity, those dollars are shrinking. Utah cannot rely on Washington to solve this problem. We must develop durable, state-level solutions that reflect Utah’s workforce needs and family values.

Dr. Rosemary Lesser supports pragmatic policies that:

Expand access to affordable childcare
Support small childcare providers and early childhood educators
Encourage employer partnerships and innovative models
Strengthen workforce participation for parents

As a physician and former legislator, Rosemary understands that the earliest years of life shape long-term health, educational success, and economic opportunity. Investing in childcare is investing in Utah’s future.

In 2026, she is committed to advancing practical, fiscally responsible solutions that support working families and ensure Utah remains a state where parents can both raise children and build careers.

REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS

Dr. Rosemary Lesser approaches reproductive health with both professional expertise and deep compassion.

As an Obstetrician-Gynecologist for more than three decades, she has shared in some of the most joyful moments in a family’s life — announcing a healthy pregnancy, delivering a long-awaited child, watching new parents hold their baby for the first time.

She has also walked with families through heartbreaking and medically complex situations — severe pregnancy complications, fetal diagnoses, miscarriages, and maternal health crises. These moments require careful medical judgment, clear communication, and profound respect for the emotional weight families carry.

Reproductive health decisions are rarely simple. They are deeply personal, medically nuanced, and often made under difficult circumstances.

What is clear to Rosemary is this: these decisions belong in the exam room — not in the political arena.

Medical care should be guided by patients and their trusted health care providers, grounded in evidence and compassion. Politicians without medical training should not be inserting themselves into complex clinical decisions or overriding the physician-patient relationship.

Rosemary believes Utah families deserve dignity, privacy, and the freedom to make deeply personal medical decisions without unnecessary government interference. As she seeks to return to the Legislature in 2026, she will continue to advocate for policies that respect medical expertise, protect maternal health, and uphold the integrity of the doctor-patient relationship.

HEALTHY COMMUNITIES

VETERANS & MILITARY FAMILIES

Integrity First. Service Before Self. Excellence in All We Do.

These are the core values of the United States Air Force — and they have guided Dr. Rosemary Lesser throughout her life of service.

Before entering public office, Rosemary spent fifteen years on active duty as an Air Force physician, caring for service members and their families at Wilford Hall Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, and at the U.S. Air Force Hospital in Wiesbaden, Germany. She understands firsthand the sacrifices military families make — frequent moves, deployments, career disruption, and the quiet burdens carried at home.

Her commitment to veterans and military families did not end when she hung up the uniform.

In the Utah House of Representatives, Rosemary was the only Democratic member of the Veterans Caucus, working across party lines to support those who have served. In 2021, she co-sponsored legislation eliminating the state income tax on military retirement pensions, providing meaningful financial relief to retired service members. She also served as House sponsor for a resolution honoring the life and legacy of William Christofferson, a World War II veteran and lifelong advocate for Utah’s veteran community.

Rosemary continues her service today as a member of the advisory board for the Utah chapter of Blue Star Families, a nonprofit organization that supports active-duty service members, National Guard, Reservists, veterans, and their families. Through this work, she remains closely connected to the evolving needs of Utah’s military community.

In recognition of her leadership and commitment to veterans, VoteVets named Rosemary an Emerging Leader in 2021.

As she seeks to return to the Legislature in 2026, Rosemary remains committed to strengthening support for veterans and military families — expanding access to health care, promoting economic opportunity, and ensuring that Utah honors its promise to those who have worn the uniform.

Service is not a slogan for Rosemary. It is a lifelong commitment.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Ogden’s growth is a testament to what makes our community special. National publications have recognized our city as one of the most desirable housing markets in the country — and for good reason. Rosemary and her husband chose to raise their family here more than 30 years ago because of its strong neighborhoods, outdoor beauty, and sense of community.

But rapid growth has brought real challenges.

Homeownership remains one of the primary pathways to economic mobility in the United States. Protecting property values and preserving neighborhood stability are important priorities. At the same time, nearly 40% of District 10 residents rent their homes — and too many families are struggling with rising rents and limited availability.

Dr. Rosemary Lesser believes we must balance growth with affordability.

During her service in the Utah House of Representatives, she advocated for policies that promote sustainable development while protecting both homeowners and renters. In 2021, she co-sponsored legislation expanding rental expense disclosure requirements, increasing transparency and helping renters better understand the true cost of housing.

Rosemary supports practical solutions that:

Increase housing supply responsibly
Encourage mixed-income development
Protect renters from unfair practices
Preserve neighborhood character
Support pathways to homeownership for young families

Housing policy should strengthen communities — not divide them. As she seeks to return to the Legislature in 2026, Rosemary will continue working toward balanced, common-sense housing solutions that ensure Ogden remains a place where families of all incomes can live, work, and thrive.

PROTECTING PUBLIC HEALTH

Dr. Rosemary Lesser believes public health is one of the core responsibilities of state government. A strong public health system protects families, strengthens our workforce, and prepares communities to respond effectively to emerging threats.

As a physician and former member of the Utah House Health and Human Services Committee, Rosemary advocated for policies that strengthen Utah’s public health infrastructure — including access to preventive care, vaccination programs, and evidence-based disease prevention. She believes public health decisions should be guided by science, transparency, and community trust.

Rosemary has been deeply engaged in addressing Utah’s opioid crisis. As a member of the Opioid Committee with the Ogden Civil Action Network (Ogden CAN), she has worked alongside leaders across Weber County to confront addiction with urgency and compassion. She has supported collaboration between public health and public safety agencies to implement real-time overdose notification systems and expand strategies that save lives and connect individuals more quickly to treatment and recovery resources.

In recognition of her long-standing work at the intersection of health and community safety, Rosemary was honored as a Purple Champion for Weber County in 2025 — a distinction recognizing individuals who work to reduce overdose deaths and strengthen community response efforts.

Whether responding to addiction, preventing disease, or ensuring preparedness for future emergencies, Utah needs leaders who respect science, trust professionals, and focus on results.

As she seeks to return to the Legislature in 2026, Rosemary will continue working to strengthen Utah’s public health system, protect community well-being, and ensure that prevention, preparedness, and compassion remain priorities.

HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT

CLEAN AIR & RESPONSIBLE ENERGY

Clean air is essential to the health of our communities and one of the most significant challenges facing Utah.

As a physician, Dr. Rosemary Lesser understands that air quality is directly linked to asthma, heart and lung disease, pregnancy outcomes, and long-term health. For families along the Wasatch Front, poor air quality is not theoretical — it affects daily life, missed school days, and medical visits. Protecting our air means protecting our children, seniors, and workforce.

Rosemary is proud to be a member of the bipartisan Clean Air Caucus, working with colleagues across party lines to advance practical, forward-thinking strategies to improve Utah’s air quality.

She supports policies that:

Invest in efficient public transportation
Expand cleaner vehicle and fleet technologies
Encourage energy innovation that reduces emissions
Promote smart growth and responsible development

Utah is uniquely positioned to lead in responsible energy production. With abundant sunshine and significant geothermal potential, our state can expand solar generation paired with modern battery storage to provide reliable, affordable power. Rosemary believes Utah should prioritize energy solutions that are scalable, cost-effective, and deployable now — ensuring grid reliability while reducing emissions and protecting ratepayers.

Clean air and smart energy policy are about more than the environment — they are about public health, economic competitiveness, and long-term stability. Businesses and families alike want to live in communities with clean air and reliable, affordable energy.

As she seeks to return to the Legislature in 2026, Rosemary will continue advocating for practical, measurable solutions that improve air quality, strengthen energy independence, and safeguard Utah’s future.

CLEAN WATER & LONG-TERM STEWARDSHIP

Water is Utah’s most precious resource.

Persistent drought conditions, rapid population growth, and changing climate patterns make responsible water policy essential to our state’s future. Protecting our water supply is not just an environmental issue — it is fundamental to our economy, agriculture, public health, and quality of life.

Dr. Rosemary Lesser believes Utah must plan boldly and responsibly to ensure future generations have access to clean, reliable water.

She supports policies that:

Promote water conservation and efficiency
Encourage smart growth and responsible land-use planning
Invest in infrastructure to reduce waste and modernize delivery systems
Protect critical ecosystems, including the Great Salt Lake
Ensure fair and sustainable water access for communities across the state

Clean water is also a public health issue. Safe drinking water, protected watersheds, and healthy lakes and rivers support everything from recreation and tourism to agriculture and local business. The natural beauty of Utah — its lakes, rivers, and streams — is part of our identity and a major driver of economic opportunity.

Rosemary believes stewardship is a shared responsibility. By making smart decisions today, Utah can protect its natural resources while supporting continued growth and prosperity.

As she seeks to return to the Legislature in 2026, Rosemary will continue advocating for forward-thinking water policy that safeguards our communities, strengthens our economy, and preserves Utah’s extraordinary landscape for generations to come.

CLEAN ENERGY & ECONOMIC INNOVATION

Utah’s energy future should be innovative, reliable, and economically smart.

Dr. Rosemary Lesser supports policies that responsibly expand clean energy while ensuring grid reliability and protecting ratepayers. As technology advances, renewable energy sources — particularly solar paired with battery storage and geothermal — are becoming increasingly cost-competitive and scalable for Utah’s needs.

Ogden is among the communities leading the way through participation in the Community Renewable Energy Program, which allows cities to work collaboratively with Rocky Mountain Power to pursue net-100% renewable energy goals. Local leadership like this demonstrates that clean energy and economic growth can move forward together.

Rosemary also supports the groundbreaking work being done by the Energy and Sustainability Office at Weber State University. Their research and implementation efforts show that renewable energy investments can reduce long-term costs, improve efficiency, and position Utah as a leader in next-generation energy solutions.

Clean energy is not just about environmental responsibility — it is about economic competitiveness. Businesses increasingly seek reliable, affordable, and sustainable power sources when deciding where to locate and invest. Expanding renewable energy strengthens Utah’s ability to attract jobs, support innovation, and reduce long-term energy costs.

As she seeks to return to the Legislature in 2026, Rosemary will continue advocating for practical energy policies that support responsible transition, protect workers, encourage innovation, and ensure Utah families benefit from affordable, dependable power.

HEALTHY DEMOCRACY

HEALTHY DEMOCRACY & CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS

A healthy democracy depends on balance, transparency, and respect for the rule of law.

For more than a century, the Utah Constitution has guaranteed the people the power to participate directly in their government — including through the citizen initiative and referendum process. The right to petition government is foundational to self-governance.

Recent events surrounding proposed Amendment D highlighted the importance of that principle. The amendment was ultimately withdrawn after concerns were raised about inadequate public notice and ballot language that was determined to be biased and confusing. That episode underscored why transparency and neutrality in constitutional matters are essential.

Dr. Rosemary Lesser believes that any constitutional amendment placed before Utah voters must be written clearly and neutrally. Ballot language should be drafted by nonpartisan legislative attorneys — not political leadership — so that voters can make informed decisions without confusion or influence.

She also believes strongly in preserving the independence of the judiciary. Courts exist to interpret the law and uphold constitutional rights without political pressure. Efforts to erode judicial independence or shift the balance of power between branches of government weaken public trust and undermine our constitutional framework.

Rosemary firmly supports the right of Utahns to petition their government and opposes attempts to make citizen initiatives or referenda more difficult to pursue. While reasonable safeguards are appropriate, the people’s voice must remain protected.

Our Constitution does not belong to politicians — it belongs to the people.

As she seeks to return to the Legislature in 2026, Rosemary is committed to protecting the balance of power, defending judicial independence, and ensuring that Utah’s democratic institutions remain strong, transparent, and accountable.

ELECTION INTEGRITY & ACCESS

Utah’s vote-by-mail system has long been recognized as one of the most secure and efficient in the nation.

Dr. Rosemary Lesser firmly supports Utah’s mail-in voting program and believes it strengthens both election security and voter participation. Ballots are verified through signature matching, secure tracking systems, and chain-of-custody protections. Voting by mail — or through secure drop boxes — has been shown to be safe, reliable, and cost-effective for local governments.

Utah’s model works. It increases convenience for voters, reduces administrative costs for counties, and maintains strong safeguards against fraud.

Rosemary is concerned about recent legislative efforts that reduce access to the ballot without evidence of widespread problems. Election policy should be grounded in facts, not fear. Protecting election integrity and protecting voter access are not opposing goals — they go hand in hand.

In 2022, Rosemary sponsored funding for the Olene Walker Institute of Politics and Public Policy to provide ongoing training and updates on election law and procedures for election officials across the state. Supporting professional, well-trained election administrators strengthens public trust and ensures consistent standards statewide.

Rosemary believes every eligible Utahn should be able to vote securely, conveniently, and confidently. As she seeks to return to the Legislature in 2026, she will continue defending secure vote-by-mail, responsible election administration, and the fundamental right of citizens to participate in their democracy.