Rocky Anderson

Ross Carl "Rocky" Anderson II, born on September 9, 1951, is a distinguished American attorney, author, activist, and staunch advocate for civil and human rights. He made his mark as the 33rd Mayor of Salt Lake City, Utah, serving two consecutive terms from 2000 to 2008.

Before entering public office, Anderson dedicated over two decades to practicing law in Salt Lake City. His political career began to take shape when he was the Democratic nominee for Congress in Utah's Second Congressional District in 1996. After his tenure as mayor, he became the Executive Director of High Road for Human Rights, a nonprofit organization committed to promoting human rights globally, while also resuming his legal practice, where he was known for challenging governmental policies through litigation.

In 2012, Anderson further expanded his political ambitions by founding the Justice Party and running as its presidential nominee, garnering approximately 43,000 votes from the over 129 million ballots cast in that election. In 2023, he sought to reclaim his former position as mayor of Salt Lake City but faced defeat against incumbent Erin Mendenhall, receiving 34% of the vote compared to Mendenhall's 58%. Throughout his career, Anderson has remained dedicated to advocating for social justice and human rights.