Joseph Bracken Lee (January 7, 1899 – October 20, 1996) was an American political figure in the state of Utah.

[2] During World War I, Lee served in the U.S. Army, lying about his age and passing up his high school graduation in order to enlist.

During training in California, the Army kept him there as a trainer for the soldiers going to Europe, believing that he had the excellent people skills needed for this job.

Another way he tried to save money was by eating only one hamburger and drinking a quart of milk a day.

Lee was an avid hunter and outdoorsman, particularly enjoying the high desert in eastern Utah near Price.

In addition to his fierce opposition to the income tax, he opposed foreign aid and the United Nations.

In 1956, he lost the Republican primary, which caused him to run a strong but unsuccessful race as an independent.

W. Cleon Skousen had served as Salt Lake City, Utah, police chief for four years before being fired.

[3] This happened shortly after Skousen raided an illegal poker club, where Lee was in attendance.

With age having moderated his temper somewhat, he was more effective in office while remaining true to his principles.

While many point to his temper, opinionated personality, and battles with educators as problems, he is also generally praised for his fiscal responsibility, and for the fact that Utah enjoyed a prosperous economy during his administration.

Even Lee's political opponents respected his integrity and honest, open and straightforward ways of dealing.