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Becker Launches Campaign Platform, Criticizes Biskupski

Brian Grimmett
Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker launches his general election campaign, standing alongside Salt Lake County Mayor Ben McAdams, Former Lt. Gov Greg Bell, and State Representative Brian King

Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker launched his re-election campaign Tuesday with a passionate speech outside of the Salt Lake City County building.

Standing with a large crowd of supporters and flanked by prominent local, county, and state leaders, Ralph Becker shared his blueprint for how he wants to continue to improve Salt Lake City. His plan includes five focus areas, including economic development, energy and sustainability, and transportation. But beyond just defining his vision, Becker also called out his opponent, Jackie Biskupski, for attacking his character.

“I have sat back long enough as I have been accused of not listening and not being collaborative," Becker said. "My style might not be slick or flashy, but enough is enough with that type of campaign attack.”

But Biskupski said she’s only raising concerns that she’s heard from voters, and hasn’t gone after Becker in any way that should be considered negative campaigning.

“We are clearly talking about concerns; reasons why I decided to run," she said. "Kind of showing that all is not well at city hall, but not in some slanderous way.

Becker came in second to Biskupski in August’s primary election, trailing his opponent by more than four thousand votes. But Becker says he hopes his accomplishments during the past 7 years in office will be enough to push him over the top come November. 

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