'Heavy heart': Republican announces resignation weeks after winning re-election

A Republican state lawmaker in Utah abruptly resigned Thursday less than two months after winning re-election.

Rep. Kera Birkeland was appointed to the Utah House of Representatives in April 2020 and was elected to a full term later that year. On Nov. 5, she won another term with 60 percent of the vote over Democratic challenger Kris Campbell.

But on Thursday evening, she said her constituents deserve better.

"The residents of District 4 have granted me a profound opportunity; in several elections, they entrusted a young mother like me to be their voice. Their steadfast support, along with their commitment to hold me accountable, has been a profound source of motivation for me. My deep affection for each member of this District drives me to recognize that they merit a representative who can provide them with even more than I am currently capable of offering," said Birkeland.

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She added: "It is with a heavy heart that I announce my decision to resign from the Utah House of Representatives, effective January 10th, 2025.

Birkeland cited family and professional obligations that have "increasingly required my attention away from home," and said she expects that trend will continue for at least a year or two.

"This choice was not made lightly; it has weighed heavily on my mind for some time, partly, because I feel that my work here is far from complete. Nevertheless, the present circumstances demand that I focus on other significant responsibilities," she said.

Birkeland supported anti-trans and anti-abortion bills, according to local media reports. Three years ago, she proposed legislation to ban trans athletes from competing in girls’ sports in the state, then proposed an even more restrictive bill last year. This year, she was the top sponsor of a transgender bathroom ban that passed this year.

Birkeland campaigned on development projects and affordable housing.