Brad Carmack

Brad holds three degrees from BYU — a BS in biology, a MPA, and a JD. He’s been deeply involved in a variety of noble causes, including outreach to the LGBT community and work with Utah’s prison population. We asked Brad about how his faith and his political views complement each other.

You were raised in a Mormon family, and you put a lot of study into your decision to remain a member of the church as an adult. Which LDS doctrines are most precious to you?

I value the doctrines of atonement and theosis. These are communitarian tenets, and immense strength resides in LDS communities. I love what has been called “the grand fundamental principles of Mormonism” — truth, friendship, and relief.

Where do you consider yourself to be on the political spectrum?

That’s tough. I consider myself fiscally mildly conservative, but socially moderately liberal. Some libertarian ideals appeal to me. I do advocate for moderate government involvement in environmental, social, and international issues, and thus would place myself as a progressive.

How has your faith affected your political outlook?

I feel like my religion emphasizes friendship, love, acceptance, and community, and it’s inspired my belief in the importance of stewardship of the earth, the equality of families, and the necessity of unselfishness.

What is the most valuable thing that you’ve learned from your parents, and what do you hope to someday pass on to your children?

The most valuable lesson my parents taught me is to perceive others as people. As to what I want to pass on, I’ve been pondering that question lately, and I think my response is fairly typical: I intend to pass on the best I’ve found. Accountability, the Golden Rule, kindness, hard work, etc. Religious beliefs of friendship, truth, and relief. Political beliefs of stewardship, sustainable environmental practices, and robust rule of law created by self-rule that protects minorities and enables a healthy private sector.

Posted on September 20, 2011. Photography by Kaitlyn Janis. Video by Talk About Productions.