3 Pacific Islander lawmakers joining Utah Legislature
Jan 20, 2025, 10:56 AM | Updated: 7:18 pm
SALT LAKE CITY – Pacific Islanders are one of the fastest-growing demographics in Utah. However, they are drastically underrepresented in local elected offices.
This year, there’s a shift. A new generation of leaders bringing more diverse voices to the capitol. Stepping into their new role, Utah’s three Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander representatives carry a lot of pride.
“Part of the reason why we ran was the family,” said Rep. Doug Fiefia. “Part of the Polynesian culture is very family-centered.”
Fiefia is a Republican and of Tongan descent. He will represent Herriman, South Jordan and Riverton in District 48.
He’ll serve alongside Democrats, Verona Mauga of District 31 and Jake Fitisemanu of District 30 representing West Valley City.
“I’m very lucky and blessed to have a lot of support from folks who have been wanting me to run for this seat,” said Fitisemanu.
They are the first Samoan man and woman elected to any legislative seat in the continental United States.
“That’s definitely not the reason that I ran for office,” said Mauga. “It’s especially meaningful because growing up, I didn’t see many people who look like me.”
It’s a reflection of the state’s growing demographics. The Kem C. Gardner Institute reports the number of Pacific Islanders in Utah has more than doubled from 2010 to 2020. They make up 1.8% of Utah’s population. That’s he third highest share in the U.S.
“We may have our individual principles, we may have our individual values but I’m here to represent a community,” said Fitisemanu.
Their goals as lawmakers
They’ve got some lofty goals. Fitisemanu is proposing a public safety bill targeting people running red lights. Mauga is working on renter’s rights. Fiefia will focus on laws protecting children who are in the custody of the state.
For now, they’re taking in the moment and hope to usher in a new era of leadership.
“(I) walked on the house floor. In that moment, it felt so real to me,” said Mauga. “I think at the end of the day, we all want the same thing. We want a safer Utah, a better place to raise our families.”