Rep. Kera Birkeland, a Republican lawmaker in Utah, unexpectedly resigned Thursday, less than two months after securing re-election. Birkeland, who was first appointed to the Utah House of Representatives in April 2020 and later elected to a full term in 2020, had just won a new term on November 5 with 60 percent of the vote, defeating Democratic challenger Kris Campbell.
In a statement Thursday evening, Birkeland explained that her decision to step down was driven by her belief that her constituents deserved more. “The residents of District 4 have granted me a profound opportunity; in several elections, they entrusted a young mother like me to be their voice.
Their steadfast support, along with their commitment to holding me accountable, has been a profound source of motivation for me. My deep affection for each member of this District drives me to recognize that they merit a representative who can provide them with even more than I am currently capable of offering,” she said.
Birkeland announced her resignation would take effect on January 10, 2025. “It is with a heavy heart that I announce my decision to resign from the Utah House of Representatives,” she added. The lawmaker cited growing family and professional obligations that had begun to pull her attention away from her role.
She expressed that these commitments were likely to increase over the next year or two. “This choice was not made lightly; it has weighed heavily on my mind for some time, partly, because I feel that my work here is far from complete. Nevertheless, the present circumstances demand that I focus on other significant responsibilities,” Birkeland stated.
Birkeland had been a staunch supporter of conservative policies, including anti-trans and anti-abortion legislation. She proposed a bill to ban trans athletes from competing in girls’ sports in Utah in 2020, followed by a more restrictive version in 2021. This year, she was the lead sponsor of a transgender bathroom ban, which successfully passed the legislature.
During her campaign, Birkeland also focused on development projects and affordable housing, addressing issues important to her district. Despite her resignation, her departure leaves a significant gap in local conservative politics.