Running as a Democrat has proven a tough gig in Utah County over the past decade, but shaving off a 23-year beard? That's dedication to the party.

On Friday morning, a handful of members of the left together filed for seats in the state House of Representatives or Senate. The entire state House is up for grabs, as is half the Senate, the governor and one county commission seat.

Running against incumbent Brad Daw in District 60 is Boyd McAffee, whose father served two terms as a Democratic representative in the county in the '60s. A former educator and longtime director of the Clear Creek Outdoor Education Camp, McAffee would like to focus on environmental issues.

"We need the energy," he said of tapping Utah's natural resources. "[But] they're drilling holes everywhere up in our mountains. We need to control it."

He also figured he'd better lose the beard if he is going to run for office, even if his granddaughter doesn't recognize him.

The Democrats weren't alone at the county Elections Office on Friday. Also filing were Daw (who shook hands with McAffee) and Senate President John Valentine, who doesn't yet have an announced challenger. Anyone taking on the Orem Republican better have some cash, as Valentine has $140,000 in his war chest and could raise "a few hundred thousand more" if needed.

He did compliment the Democrats on what appears to be a well-organized effort to mount serious challenges compared to recent elections.

"They're really invigorated this year," he said.

Also invigorating is the race for the 3rd District seat in the U.S. House, which has been held by Rep. Chris Cannon since the mid-'90s. He's being challenged within his own party by Alpine resident Jason Chaffetz, Joe H. Ferguson of Cedar Hills and David Leavitt, a former Juab County prosecutor and the brother of former governor Mike Leavitt.

"If we expect different results in Washington, D.C., we are going to have to elect different people," Chaffetz said.

All state lawmakers from the county are expected to run again, said County Republican Party Chairwoman Marian Monnahan. She said she's unaware of anyone facing a primary challenge.

The Democrats who've officially announced they're running for office are: Ken Peay, Senate District 13; Gwyn Franson, House District 27; Steve Baugh, House District 58; Paul Thompson, House District 59; McAffee, House District 60; Deon Turley, House District 61; Claralyn Hill, House District 62; Don Jarvis, House District 63; and Boyd Petersen, House District 64.

Candidates from any party have until 5 p.m. on March 17 to file.

Any person desiring to have his name printed on the ballot shall file a Declaration of Candidacy with the Elections Office between March 7th and no later than 5 p.m. on March 17th.

Utah County Elections Office