12/22/2025
Eva Lopez Chavez, the first Mexican-American elected to the Salt Lake City Council, announced Monday that she is running for Congress, positioning herself as part of a new generation of leadership in Utah.
In a statement shared on social media, Chavez said her decision comes from a desire to âstop the cycle and defend our communities,â calling for leadership that reflects the lived experiences of everyday Utahns. She emphasized unity and grassroots momentum, encouraging supporters to join her campaign and learn more about her platform.
Chavez is the eldest daughter of a working-class Mexican immigrant family and was born in Salt Lake City before being raised in southern Idaho. She was elected to the Salt Lake City Council in 2024 and has since focused on community engagement and local advocacy.
A member of the LGBTQ+ community, Chavez has worked as a consultant for businesses and organizations and previously served as a Mayorâs Office liaison and outreach specialist. She attended the University of Utah, where she studied political science.
According to her bio, Chavezâs leadership is guided by three core principles: inclusivity, sustainability, and community. Her campaign aims to ensure diverse voices are represented in decision-making and that all residents have equal access to opportunity.