2026 campaign announcement State Senate District 13

A Message from Ryan L. Mahoney

Over the past several weeks, I’ve been incredibly grateful for the encouragement, conversations, and support I’ve received from friends, colleagues, and community members across our city.

Many have asked whether I would consider stepping up to run for a State House or State Senate seat. The Senate seat has been held by Democrats for decades, I believe strongly that every voter deserves a choice on the ballot. No seat in our district should go without a republican choice on the ballot, and I don’t believe in sitting out simply because the challenge is difficult or a long shot.

I recognize that this will be a grueling uphill race, but I am up for the challenge. Meaningful change, accountability, and transparency require participation, persistence, and a willingness to engage even when the odds are long.

I want to sincerely thank everyone who has reached out with encouragement, support, and trust in my ability to represent State Senate District 13. Your confidence means more to me than you know, and I do not take the responsibility lightly.

No matter win or lose, I remain committed to serving our community and working toward responsible leadership that puts Utah residents first.

Following a successful tenure working to restore order to the county central region and executive committee, I am honored to have the unanimous support of the Republican Party as the official nominee for

State Senate District 13

Sincerely, Ryan Mahoney - Central Region Chair, SLCoGOP

Welcome, Meet Ryan L Mahoney

Republican Nominee for Utah State Senate District 13

I’m a life long Utahn and proud resident of West Valley City. I’m running for Utah State Senate district 13 because I believe in protecting what makes our State strong

"safe neighborhoods, thriving families, and smart growth that honors our values."

Raised in UTAH

Growing up, I moved frequently and attended several schools across Utah, including Lake Ridge Elementary (Magna), Monroe and Farnsworth Elementary (West Valley City), Mountain Shadows Elementary (West Jordan). I went on to Brockbank Junior High in Magna and attended Cyprus High School and Clearfield Job Corps, where I Completed my GED, Diploma and studied business.

Following my studies, I spent several years working as a mechanic and A.S.E. certified automotive technician, eventually transitioning into management roles within the Company. Throughout my career, I’ve overcome personal health challenges, staying committed to growth and living life to its fullest.

Education and public service were strong values in my family. Both of my parents dedicated many years to the Granite School District—my father, Patrick Mahoney, worked as a custodian at several schools before retiring from Fox Hills Elementary, and my mother, Georgia Vallejos, served years as principal’s secretary at Cyprus High School, retiring from the same district.

I am currently pursuing pre-law studies while working toward a lighter-than-air pilot’s license and certifications in aviation inspection and repair. I remain active in my community and hope to earn the privilege of serving on the Utah State Senate.

Local Impact & Key Issues

Republican Nominee for Utah State Senate District 13

As an Automotive Fleet repair Manager, Member of the National Balloon Federation of America's Student CAAP Training Committee , Elected County Delegate, Precinct Chairman and Central Region Chair of the County GOP, I’ve had the opportunity to meet and build relationships with elected leaders and local business owners at multiple levels. These connections have positioned me to serve effectively and advocate for our community.

I successfully led a petition on behalf of local businesses opposing a high-density development construction site that was negatively impacting the area—an effort that reached Mayor Erin Mendenhall’s office and helped bring much-needed relief. I also led a safety visibility audit of the 300 West bike lane corridor and submitted a supplementary audit of the ballot processing system in coordination with the Lieutenant Governor’s Office, helping identify and address a gap in our statewide voting system.

By regularly attending West Valley City Council meetings, I’ve worked to ensure residents’ voices are heard, bringing forward real concerns and helping shape local decision-making.

If elected, I will bring that same level of effectiveness, diligence, and accountability to serving Utah State Senate District 13.

I’m committed to:

Balanced Housing: Supporting affordable, well-planned housing that meets growth needs while respecting single-family neighborhoods.
Water Conservation: Advocating for zoning that enables homeowners to use zero-scaping and other water-wise landscaping without unnecessary red tape.
Community Preservation: Protecting historic properties and local landmarks that reflect our city’s heritage.
Skilled Trades & Economic Opportunity: As a Job Corps graduate, I believe in investing in skilled trades training—especially for youth who may not choose the college path but deserve access to well-paid careers.
Public Safety: I strongly support our Military and first responders including police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. As part of my volunteer work supporting hot air balloon events, I’ve completed CPR, AED and First Aid training to ensure I’m prepared to respond in emergency situations. Public Safety and preparedness are top priorities.

Fiscal Responsibility: I am committed to fiscal responsibility by prioritizing essential infrastructure improvements while ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. I believe in investing where it matters most roads, utilities, and public safety. Not in subsidizing city owned properties that consistently operate at a deficit or funding non essential programs raising the cost of Property taxes state wide. I am focused on long-term value for all of our residents.

This campaign is about community. Let’s build a strong, sustainable, and united Utah, together.

UTAH HONOR FLIGHTS - (R)

Creating Utah History Together

I believe we can do better than campaigns that produce materials destined for the trash. Too often thousands of dollars are spent on, signs, flyers, and promotional items that serve a short-term purpose and end up in our landfills, leaving nothing meaningful behind. I am committed to keeping campaign materials to a bare minimum and instead investing in something that reflects the values of Utah stewardship, respect for our land, and a deep appreciation for those who have served our country.

In place of waste, I am working to create something lasting: a

"Utah Honor Flights" program centered around a historic Utah flag hot air balloon. This balloon is not just a project, it is a vision for a living landmark in our skies, a symbol that represents our state’s heritage and honors the veterans who defended it. As it travels across Utah, it will stand as a powerful and visible reminder of service, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of our communities.

(My Promise)

When you donate to this campaign, you are not funding disposable materials you are directly helping bring this mission to life. The majority of all contributions will go toward launching this historic initiative, paying it forward by providing Utah veterans with meaningful flight experiences that recognize their service in a truly unforgettable way. This is more than a campaign, it is an opportunity to create something lasting, to honor our veterans, and to leave a legacy in the skies of Utah for generations to come.

This mission is designed to outlast this campaign and stand as a lasting tribute in Utah’s skies.

Utah Re-Districting Maps

SLCoGOP Members and Friends,

As many of you are aware, the effort to gather signatures for the Initiative Petition to place Proposition 4 on the ballot is now underway. This initiative simply repeals the code sections regarding the Independent Redistricting Commission and returns redistricting authority to the Legislature, as outlined in the Utah State Constitution.

We have until February 15 to collect 170,000 signatures statewide, with required thresholds in 26 Senate Districts. This is a major undertaking, and it will take all of us working together to meet the deadline.

If you would like a packet to gather signatures—or if you would like to sign the petition yourself—please contact me directly. I am happy to meet with anyone to distribute packets.
Please remember: once you begin collecting signatures in a packet, only you may use that packet, and it must be returned within 30 days of the first signature. All signatures must be witnessed, properly dated, and packets must remain stapled and intact.

If you or someone you know would like to be paid to collect signatures, I can send the link to enroll.

This process will require commitment and coordination, but I know our team is up to the task. Your help—whether by gathering signatures or simply signing—is greatly appreciated.

If you want to sign the petition, please reach out to me before the deadline. Feb 13th 2026 Together, we can get this done.

Ryan Mahoney
Central Region Chair, SLCoGOP

Little Cottonwood Canyon gondola project

I oppose the proposed Little Cottonwood Canyon gondola project. While improving access and safety in the canyon is important, committing approximately $1.4 billion in taxpayer funds to a single fixed-guideway system is not fiscally responsible. Those dollars would come from the state’s general fund, funded by sales taxes on groceries, school supplies, and everyday items—meaning Utah families across rural, suburban, and urban communities would shoulder the cost, even if they never use the gondola.

In addition to construction costs, the ongoing operations and maintenance would create a significant, long-term burden for taxpayers. I believe Utah should prioritize more flexible and cost-effective transportation solutions—like enhanced bus service and targeted road safety improvements—that serve the broader public while respecting principles of limited government and responsible budgeting. Transportation investments should meet the needs of all Utahn's, not just a few.