New candidate joins 3rd Congressional District race against Chaffetz


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SALT LAKE CITY — There is a newcomer to the 3rd Congressional District race against U.S. Rep. Jason Chaffetz. His name is Brian Wonnacott, and he isn’t surprised that you don’t know who he is.

It is almost a month away from Election Day, but Democrat Brian Wonnacott is only now hiring a campaign manager and beginning to buy campaign signs. Even though time is short, he believes it is still important to join the race.

Wonnacott does not act like the stereotypical candidate for office, though, and admits that he is shy.

Wonnacott’s decision to run for office has given the voters of the 3rd Congressional District a different choice. Wonnacott feels strongly that America's privacy isn't being protected enough and that climate change isn't being taken seriously. Lastly, he feels Chaffetz is divisive and is also critical of Chaffetez’s actions before the government shutdown.

Chaffetz is known for being outspoken on the Secret Service scandal, Benghazi, Iraq and other topics. His campaign also has a lot of money.

Wonnacott is in a different position.

“It's completely beyond his power to win this race. Whether he had $2 million and was very media friendly, it would be almost impossible to beat Jason Chaffetz,” said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics.

However, Wonnacott says he has to try, in part because no one else will challenge Chaffetz like he can.

“Its clear he's catering to the radical right and there's a lot of anger and division created,” Wonnacott said.

Chaffetz and Wonnacott will meet for the first time in person on Tuesday during a live televised debate at Utah Valley University. This event is another first for Wonnacott.

Contributing: Sara Jarman

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