Laura Bonham, co-chairwoman of the Utah Democratic Progressive Caucus, has announced her decision to run for vice chairwoman of the Utah State Democratic Party.

Bonham, a resident of Coalville and an active participant in local community organizations, said in a news release that she hopes to reconnect democratic values with elected leaders and avoid arguing issues created by Republicans.

"Democrats believe in the most fundamental democratic principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness," she said.

Bonham is the mother of two. She is secretary of the Summit County Democrats and a member of the Coalville City Planning Commission, Citizens Allied for Responsible Growth and the Coalville Area Business Association.

As a 2004 state House candidate for District 53, she lost to Republican Rep. Dave Ure.