Babka kicks off race for Congress

Beau Babka invited reporters to his home Wednesday to kick off his campaign challenging Rep. Chris Cannon, R-Utah, in the 3rd Congressional District.

Babka, a Democrat, said he wanted the conference to take place in his Draper home to demonstrate that as congressman, his door would always be open to new ideas on how to make life better for those who work hard to earn a living.

Babka has worked for more than 12 years as a police officer and for nine years as an instructor at Salt Lake Community College.

"I'm a regular guy," Babka said. "I'm the average Beau, instead of the average Joe. I'm working two or three jobs and I have a family, and I feel as though I'm very versed in local leadership."

Babka highlighted three points one which his campaign will focus: creating jobs, bolstering education systems and supporting military and law enforcement.

Babka said he is concerned about the erosion of support of police departments and other public services that work to keep communities safe.

Originally from California, Babka put down roots in Utah, earning a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and psychology from Weber State University and a master's degree in public administration from Brigham Young University.