Meet Tiara Auxier: A New Voice in Utah’s House of Representatives District 4

In this episode of the PoliticIt Podcast, we welcome Tiara Auxier, the newly elected representative for Utah’s District 4. Tiara shares her journey from a mother and tax accountant to a passionate advocate for education and community issues, highlighting the importance of grassroots involvement in politics.

Introduction to Tiara Auxier

Tiara Auxier is a dynamic new representative for Utah’s District 4, embodying the spirit of grassroots activism. Her journey into politics began not from a desire for power, but from a genuine concern for her community and a commitment to advocacy. A mother and tax accountant, Tiara brings a unique perspective to the legislature, one rooted in everyday experiences and real-world challenges.

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Understanding District 4

District 4 encompasses parts of Morgan County, Summit County, and all of Rich County. This diverse region is characterized by its rich outdoor culture, tight-knit communities, and distinct educational needs. Understanding the unique dynamics of these areas is crucial for effective representation. Tiara’s deep ties to the community enable her to address the specific challenges faced by her constituents.

“We need to stop treating tax increases as inevitable and start treating transparency as essential.”

The Special Election Experience

Tiara’s path to the House of Representatives was paved by a special election that showcased the significance of delegate engagement. The turnout was remarkable, with over 90% of delegates present, highlighting the importance of personal connections in politics. Tiara stood out as a candidate who resonated with the values of her party and the community, proving that passion and dedication can triumph over name recognition.

Value of FaceTime with Delegates

FaceTime with delegates played a pivotal role in Tiara’s campaign. This direct interaction allowed her to convey her vision and values, making her a relatable candidate. The delegates’ decision to support her was based on personal connections and shared ideals, underscoring the importance of grassroots campaigning in today’s political landscape.

Tiara’s Background and Community Involvement

Raised in Draper, Tiara’s early experiences shaped her commitment to education and community service. Her involvement in school community councils demonstrated her dedication to improving local schools. As a tax accountant, she developed a keen understanding of fiscal issues, particularly concerning property taxes, which would later inform her legislative priorities.

Journey to Accounting

Tiara’s journey to becoming a tax accountant was not straightforward. Initially interested in international business, she discovered her passion for accounting during her general education courses. This unexpected turn led her to a fulfilling career that would enable her to support her family while maintaining the flexibility to engage in community activities.

Her education at the University of Utah solidified her love for accounting, where she thrived in the rigorous academic environment. Though she initially planned to pursue a CPA certification, family priorities shifted her focus. However, she remained committed to her profession, stepping back into the workforce during tax season to help her former employer.

Transitioning to Politics

Tiara Auxier’s journey into politics wasn’t a traditional one. It began with a deep-rooted interest in civic engagement, sparked by her upbringing and family influences. Growing up in Draper, she was surrounded by discussions of government and public service, thanks to her mother’s active involvement in political organizations.

From a young age, Tiara felt a connection to historical events, especially those surrounding the founding of the United States. Her birthday, coinciding with George Washington’s, further fueled her passion for history and governance. This early fascination laid the groundwork for her later involvement in local politics.

Writing for the Campus Paper

During her time at the University of Utah, Tiara took a bold step by writing for the campus newspaper, the Utah Chronicle. As a conservative voice on a predominantly liberal campus, she faced challenges but also found opportunities to engage her peers in meaningful discussions.

Her articles often sparked debates and garnered significant attention, demonstrating her ability to connect with readers. The experience not only honed her writing skills but also deepened her understanding of political discourse. Tiara embraced the challenge, proving that diverse perspectives are vital in any conversation about politics.

Involvement with Mount Liberty College

Tiara’s connection to Mount Liberty College is another testament to her commitment to education. After her children grew older, she sought to enrich her understanding of liberal arts and the great books. Discovering that her former political science teacher founded Mount Liberty College only strengthened her resolve to support this educational endeavor.

The college’s focus on traditional liberal arts education aligns with Tiara’s belief in the importance of a well-rounded curriculum. She actively promotes the college’s summer camps, which encourage young students to engage with classic literature and participate in thoughtful discussions.

The Importance of Great Books

Tiara believes that returning to the great books is essential for cultivating a thoughtful society. She emphasizes that these texts offer timeless wisdom and insights into human nature, virtue, and civilization. Engaging with these works fosters critical thinking and encourages discussions that transcend contemporary issues.

“The Great Books remind us who we are. They teach virtue, courage, and civic duty—things politics desperately needs.”

Through her own exploration of classics like the Iliad and the Odyssey, Tiara has found inspiration in the heroic ideals and moral questions they present. She advocates for a curriculum that challenges students to seek the good and beautiful in life, fostering a sense of purpose and direction in their education.

Civic Education and Jefferson’s Influence

Thomas Jefferson’s vision for civic education resonates deeply with Tiara. She recognizes the importance of educating citizens about their rights and responsibilities within a democratic society. Jefferson believed that an informed populace is essential for the success of the republic, a principle that Tiara strives to embody in her work.

Drawing from Jefferson’s emphasis on civic virtue, Tiara advocates for educational reforms that prioritize understanding the foundations of American democracy. By encouraging students to engage with historical texts and discussions, she hopes to inspire a new generation of informed citizens who can contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Discussion on Virtue and Humanities

Central to Tiara’s philosophy is the role of virtue in both personal and public life. She believes that the humanities provide a crucial platform for exploring moral questions and developing a sense of ethical responsibility. In her view, engaging with literature, philosophy, and history allows individuals to grapple with complex issues and cultivate a sense of empathy.

Tiara argues that discussions rooted in virtue are essential for fostering a healthy civic environment. By promoting conversations that prioritize moral considerations, she aims to create a culture that values integrity and accountability in governance.

Through her advocacy and commitment to education, Tiara Auxier exemplifies the belief that informed citizens can shape the future of their communities. Her journey continues to inspire others to engage in civic life and explore the profound connections between education, virtue, and democracy.

Tiara’s Tax Bill and Legislative Achievements

One of Tiara’s most significant legislative accomplishments this session was her work on property tax reform. Understanding the complexities of tax laws, she identified a loophole that allowed for automatic tax increases without voter approval. This oversight had resulted in a staggering accumulation of over $200 million in hidden taxes, compounding each year.

Tiara took the initiative to champion a bill that eliminated this automatic increment, ensuring that any future tax increases would require transparency and public scrutiny. Her dedication to fiscal responsibility not only aims to protect taxpayers but also to ensure that funding for essential services, such as education, is handled thoughtfully and deliberately.

Impact of Property Tax Legislation

The impact of Tiara’s tax legislation extends beyond mere numbers; it fundamentally changes how property taxes are calculated and implemented in Utah. By halting the automatic increases, she has opened the door for more equitable tax practices that reflect the true needs of the community.

Moreover, this reform sets a precedent for future legislation. It encourages a more transparent and participatory approach to fiscal policy, ensuring that taxpayers have a voice in how their money is spent. Tiara believes that empowering constituents in this way fosters trust between the government and the people it serves.

Focus on Rural Education and Funding

Tiara’s commitment to rural education is evident in her legislative efforts aimed at improving funding for schools in less populated areas. Recognizing the disparities between urban and rural educational facilities, she spearheaded a bill to create a grant program specifically for rural schools. This initiative allows schools to upgrade their athletic facilities and other necessary resources, ensuring that students in rural areas have access to the same opportunities as their urban counterparts.

In addition to the athletic funding bill, Tiara has worked on measures to ensure that rural schools receive adequate support for advanced placement (AP) classes and online educational resources. These efforts reflect her understanding of the unique challenges faced by rural educators and students, and her determination to bridge the gap in educational equity.

Future Goals and Ongoing Efforts

Looking ahead, Tiara remains focused on both property tax reform and educational equity. She plans to continue her work on property taxes by exploring ways to adjust tax rates for new growth areas. Her vision includes creating a more balanced approach that considers the unique circumstances of each community, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all solution.

Tiara also aims to expand her efforts in advocating for rural education. She believes that by fostering a more robust support system for these schools, Utah can cultivate a generation of informed and engaged citizens. Her long-term goal is to ensure that every child, regardless of their geographical location, receives a quality education that prepares them for future success.

Conclusion and Closing Thoughts

Tiara Auxier embodies a new wave of political engagement—one that prioritizes community, transparency, and education. Her journey from a grassroots activist to a legislator showcases her unwavering commitment to her constituents and the values she holds dear. Through her legislative achievements, she has not only addressed pressing issues but has also inspired others to become active participants in shaping their communities.

As she continues her work in the Utah House of Representatives, Tiara remains dedicated to listening to the voices of her constituents and advocating for policies that reflect their needs. Her story serves as a reminder that change is possible when individuals step up, engage, and work tirelessly for the common good.

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