Trisha Beck

Trisha Beck is very active in Utah politics, including eight years of service in the Utah State Legislature. Her political views are strongly influenced by her religion and her experiences as a mother of six.

How does the gospel affect your life?

I love the gospel of Jesus Christ. I can’t imagine raising a family without the Gospel.

You have six kids and you’re currently serving as a Primary President. Can you talk a bit about your family?

I’m married to Ron Beck, and we have 5 sons, 1 daughter, and 1 granddaughter. Our two youngest sons are both serving missions right now. One is in Chile, and the other just entered the MTC on his way to Mexico City. Currently, I’m taking a Spanish Class so that I can understand the Spanish phrases our sons write in their letters. Who knows, maybe someday my husband and I will be called to serve a Spanish speaking mission too! Our second son, Richard, has Down Syndrome; he is the reason I became involved in politics.

Where do you fall on the political spectrum?

When I was an elected official and people asked me, “What is your political party?” I always responded, “I’m a conservative UTAH Democrat.” On the “D” scale, I’m a Moderate.

How do your political and religious beliefs fit together?

I believe in compassion and charity. I’ve never had trouble squaring my political and religious beliefs together.

I have found that oftentimes, I need to explain my positions on abortion and same-sex marriage — I am opposed to abortion and believe that marriage is between a man and a woman. Personally, I have twice had to face the decision of whether or not to abort a pregnancy due to a serious blood clot. Those two pregnancies are my sons who are currently serving missions. Fortunately, we all survived.

Do your family members share your beliefs?

We are all practicing members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a mother, I’ve always taught our children to think for themselves. Some of them are registered as Republicans, however, they often vote for Democrats. Members of my extended family also often vote for Democrats because they have gotten to know Utah Democrats and have seen what wonderful people they are. My family has always been very supportive of me and my political work.

As a mother, I hope to encourage my children to think for themselves and not let talk radio hosts or other personalities think for them. I hope they’ll study out the candidates who are running for office and vote for whoever will best represent them. I feel very grateful to have such wonderful kids who truly love the gospel.

What do you love most about your state and country?

I love that most of the people have a desire to serve others. I am a history buff and appreciate what others have done for us so that we can have our freedoms. I appreciate the women who worked so hard to make it possible for women to vote. I appreciate the Civil Rights Movement, and I truly believe that our Creator made us all equal.

Sadly, I do have grave concerns about the Tea Party movement. I believe that our government should be working for the common good of the people of this great state and country.

Posted on December 22, 2011. Photography by Kaitlyn Janis. Video by Talk About Productions.