More than maps — analyzing the special session

The Utah Legislature held a very impactful special session this week. We dive deeper into what happened and how Utahns will be affected.

New congressional maps will drive new dynamics in the upcoming election. What are insiders saying about the new boundaries? How will Judge Gibson’s decision regarding Map C affect the process?

Cowley: Republican lawmakers are frustrated to have been forced to draw new maps on an impossible timeline with very little public input. This mandate, as they perceive it, is based on judicial rulings contrary to the state constitution, which requires the Legislature to “divide the state” into congressional districts.

Now that the Legislature has begrudgingly complied, the ball is back in Judge Gibson’s court. There are three possible outcomes, all of which result in appeals and further court proceedings. She may approve the new legislatively created maps, draw her own or implement ones proposed by the plaintiffs.

Sen. Brady Brammer’s special session bill, SB1011, makes the latter two a bit less likely, but never say never when attempting to predict the judiciary. If she accepts the maps passed by the Legislature, Better Boundaries organizers will appeal or at least file a new lawsuit challenging Brammer’s bill.

Regardless of which option the judge chooses, the Legislature will pursue an appeal to the Supreme Court to correct this judicial precedent. This case could very well go all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, which means there is a possibility that new maps (drawn by the Legislature, judiciary or activists) don’t last past the upcoming election cycle.

Sen. Brammer’s bill is brilliant. Previously, seven criteria were used to draw maps, but there is no hierarchy to those criteria. A map may have little population variation and follow geographic boundaries, but it splits 20 cities. Determining which is more important is subjective. The real genius of this bill is that it imposes tests suggested by Democrats and even discussed by the original Better Boundaries committee. Be careful what you wish for.

Pignanelli: “At no moment in American history has redistricting …escaped controversy.” — Lee Drutman

This old political hack is amused by all the commotion over membership in a dysfunctional institution. The current Congress has enacted only 36 bills so far. (In 45 days, the Utah Legislature usually passes more than 500 bills.) Also, the federal government remains shut down due to congressional inaction.

The special session introduced a new dynamic to Utah once only seen in other states: drawing maps under judicial oversight. Observers noted that Sen. Brammer’s bill to implement three tests was a shrewd strategy, as two of them were suggested by Democrats earlier in the process. Judge Gibson must navigate this legislation in her ruling.

Democrats offered reasonable criticism while Republicans provided a compelling rationale. Although there were emotional pleas from both sides, the entire process was conducted in a civil manner. The National Democratic Party is asserting that the new map offers opportunities to gain one or even two seats. Political observers question how this statement supports claims of extreme gerrymandering.

As Renae notes, future judicial deliberations are likely, thereby cementing Utah’s place in America’s 237-year-old redistricting battle.

Will the recent partisan wrangling in the media have any impact on the 2026 elections and beyond?

Cowley: New maps will change the course of the election. They make CD3 competitive, prompting speculation that Rep. Kennedy may run in CD4, pitting two Republican incumbents against one another. New or familiar faces may seize electoral opportunities. Insiders are already speculating whether Brian King or Ben McAdams may run. Lastly, incumbents who have spent the last two or more years connecting with their constituency will have a new swath of voters to introduce themselves to, which comes with a hefty price tag.

Pignanelli: As Renae notes, the new map (or its rejection) will impact congressional elections in 2026. National Democrats may target additional resources, which could help some down-ballot candidates. Otherwise, the redistricting will not be an issue for voters next November.

Judicially mandated redrawing of congressional districts has dominated news coverage, but which of the 17 total bills heard do you believe was most significant?

Cowley: Several bills were touted as technical cleanups, meriting little debate. There was one bill not scrutinized nearly enough: HB1005.

This is a continuation of HB356 and is aimed squarely at Summit County. It forces the county to move from at-large county council seats to 100% districted seats. Forms of county government vary greatly across the state, so it’s hard to find a cogent argument as to why Summit is being singled out.

As someone who lives in an unincorporated part of Summit County, the original bill effectively reduced my representation in local government. Instead of having five council members I can call with concerns regarding garbage collection or cows out on the road, I will now only have one elected official to hear my weighty concerns. (Note: My firm represents Summit County.)

Pignanelli: SB1003 is a veto override of SB296, which gives the governor the authority to appoint the chief justice and establishes term limits. As Renae observed, “It isn’t every day a governor turns down more power and the Legislature responds with, ‘No, really, we insist you take it.’”

The politics of religiosity and happiness

Your columnists explore a recent trend of faith and happiness among voters.

Religious groups have always been an important voting bloc for either party to secure support from. In the most recent presidential election, Trump saw a surge in support among these groups. In light of the Charlie Kirk assassination and other events, many have reported on a resurgence or revival of Christianity in America. How could this impact politics moving forward?

Cowley: Faith is an important element in the success of any society. It’s the belief in a higher power that makes one strive to “do good,” and an understanding of heavenly and eternal accountability that deters self-interested acts of evil.

https://www.deseret.com/opinion/2025/10/01/politics-religiosity-happiness-christian-revival-voters/

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

How will the Charlie Kirk shooting affect upcoming elections?

This weekend marked the memorial for Charlie Kirk, which was attended by thousands, including President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and numerous other dignitaries. Political commentators are speculating about the impact Kirk and legislative actions on signature gathering will have on politics and elections.

A recent Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics survey revealed that 73% of Americans believe the assassination will have an impact on national politics. 81% of Utahns believe there will be some impact on local elections. Half of the respondents were familiar with Kirk. Does the tragic death of Kirk impact politics, and how?

Cowley: The assassination of Charlie Kirk impacted the lives of many and will surely be evoked on the campaign trail. My hope is that his death will not be used to score political points or assign blame for all our nation’s shortcomings to one party or the other, but rather that his life and legacy will be used to inspire and uplift all Americans.

Charlie believed that open, civil debate would stretch someone’s perceptions into new understanding. I encourage all candidates to approach this upcoming election cycle with Charlie’s optimism for the future of our country and his open invitation to opposing views.

Pignanelli: “Results show that assassinations affect political institutions and conflict.” — Benjamin F. Jones and Benjamin A. Olken, Kellogg School of Management

In my lifetime, the assassinations of high-profile figures have altered the trajectory of politics and elections. Multiple books and movies conjecture a different world with a two-term John F. Kennedy presidency. The killing of his brother, Robert F. Kennedy, shifted the 1968 elections. The murders of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King intensified the momentum in the civil rights movement. Also, the survival of Ronald Reagan and Donald Trump from attacks likely enhanced their popularity.

The deep affection and respect for Kirk among conservatives were evident in the last two weeks. Their frustration with his death and unsympathetic comments from some will energize the right. This could influence budget negotiations and lead to a government shutdown. There will likely be an impact on the redistricting battles in Utah.

History documents that the effects of abrupt changes caused by violence can last for many years.

The Legislature is moving forward with a proposal to encourage the utilization of electronic signatures for initiatives, referendums and candidates’ primary petitions. How will this impact elections and political involvement?

Cowley: Electronic signature gathering has been available to candidates and initiative organizers since 2023, but none has utilized it. Rep. Jordan Teuscher’s proposal would phase out paper packets, leaving electronic as the only option. Other states have piloted similar technologies and reported favorable outcomes.

Should this proposal succeed, paper ballots would be replaced with iPads. Signatures would still be witnessed in person (a link cannot be posted online or shared electronically), meaning signature-gathering firms aren’t going away. Lastly, signature gatherers would have to scan signers’ IDs. This final provision is the most significant. Scanning IDs would significantly reduce fraud and allow for real-time verification; however, getting someone to hand over their ID isn’t easy and may have a chilling effect on the number of individuals willing to sign.

Some argue costs for signature gathering may be lower, but if voters are more reluctant to scan their ID, signature-gathering firms will likely charge more for their services. I am less compelled by arguments for cost savings. Our founders prioritized secure elections, not cheap ones, but I applaud measures that make political involvement more accurate and secure.

There will always be glitches and vulnerabilities with technology, but this concept is a move in the right direction for election integrity. Furthermore, if Utah requires an ID to sign a petition or signature packet, we should have the same requirement for voting.

Pignanelli: I spent the first half of my life using a landline telephone and hold dear to some traditional methods. The marvels of 21st-century technology abound, and the potential for reduced costs helps candidates of lesser means. Not surprisingly, this curmudgeon is more comfortable with the old ways.

Although candidates and ballot measure sponsors use signature-gathering firms, human interaction occurs between those seeking approval and those who provide written consent to the verbal request. Requiring a “pen to paper” enhances this exchange. I understand the electronic version requires signatories to scroll through initiatives and referendums. But I hold the perception that a bulky document alerts the citizen to pay heed.

How will these factors and others impact the cost of elections?

Cowley: The union referendum, redistricting and Amendment D all have the attention of out-of-state groups looking to protect or upend Utah’s red wall. If congressional districts shift, incumbents will have entirely new swaths of voters to ingratiate themselves with, while challengers may see opportunities that didn’t exist before.

Rarely before has Utah been at the center of discussions regarding congressional control, but now it’s center stage. All of these factors will result in Utah’s most expensive election cycle yet for candidates up and down the ballot.

Pignanelli: High-stakes control of the U.S. House of Representatives and restrictions on legislative interference with initiatives guarantee the attention of national special interest groups. Hopefully, a slew of unimaginative television commercials sloppily created by overpaid consultants will be avoided.

Take it from us — differences make us stronger

A letter to our readers:

Your humble authors are separated by generation, geography, gender and political beliefs, but united in our love for Utah and the United States. There are many differences we point to that could erode the respect we have for one another, even breed hate. Instead, we choose to embrace these differences.

This makes our writing stronger and our business thrive. We use our varied backgrounds and ideologies to learn from one another and even strengthen our written arguments or perspectives. We make these differences work for us every day, and we believe the country can, and should, do the same.

In light of the anti-American assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk, we wanted to offer our perspectives.

Kirk was a provocateur whose words impacted millions, including your columnists.

Frank was born in the later years of the Eisenhower administration, when segregation was still practiced. The fight for equality in the 1960s was a common discussion in the Pignanelli household. So when Kirk disparaged Dr. Martin Luther King and the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Frank was apoplectic. His animated response was, “I hope someone challenges that view so Kirk understands what was happening back then and why the law was meaningful to so many.” His reaction was to debate, not to strike.

Renae grew up in a conservative household where Rush Limbaugh or Fox News were continuously playing. Political debates around the dinner table were commonplace, where, for the sake of argument, her mother would assume the opposing view, just to help her daughters explore their own beliefs or expose holes in their adolescent ways of thinking. More recently, when people were criticized for not posting a black square or had the audacity of committing the thought crime of questioning government-sponsored “science,” she expressed curiosity for opposing opinions, not desires for violence.

With our different perspectives, we have common observations of the shooting investigation press conferences and the appalling responses from numerous individuals.

Although the family members of the alleged perpetrator were mentioned, they have not received the appropriate level of attention and appreciation they deserve. For a relative to contact authorities, knowing it could be a death sentence for their loved one, is an expression of loyalty to the nation, compassion to the victim’s family and a commitment to community. We sincerely express our gratitude for their courageous act and encourage political and law enforcement leaders to do the same.

Regardless of political differences, all Utahns should be proud of the role Gov. Spencer Cox is playing. President Donald Trump asked him to participate in all the national media conversations over the weekend. He expressed appropriate outrage tempered with compassion. Many previously mocked his “Disagree Better” campaign, an effort to increase civility and discourse. His wisdom and foresight at this moment in time are commendable.

Cox encouraged Americans not to characterize actions as either the “radical left” or “radical right.” He encouraged the disuse of political labels, advocating for the alternative ”radical action.” Individuals associated with both right and left-wing ideologies have committed or attempted political assassinations. No one faction owns this terrible blemish. It belongs to all.

The latest YouGov poll illustrates a disturbing trend. Thirty-four percent of very liberal or liberal young voters believe it is always or usually acceptable to be happy about the death of a public figure. This sentiment is the singular greatest tragedy of recent events and cannot be allowed to proliferate, especially in the hearts of young Americans.

The First Amendment guarantees citizens the freedom of speech. It does not mean freedom from the consequences of those words. Individuals calling for more violence should expect consummate and severe repercussions. Those celebrating this tragic killing or expressing anything but compassion for the victim’s family should be unabashedly challenged and reprimanded. We believe in zero tolerance for political violence or support of such barbaric actions. These macabre statements are deserving of harsh and severe consequences, even legal recourse where appropriate.

When Charlie debated college students on campus, he would often say that opposing views are not just welcomed; they’re invited. In the wake of this tragedy, we hope that one of the lessons learned is that disagreement over ideals should not propel someone to permanently silence the other side, but to openly and respectfully participate in an exchange of ideas.

Resorting to fisticuffs and bullets undermines a key tenet of our Constitution and what makes us uniquely American. Respectful debate is how understanding is built and consensus reached, not through censorship or murder. Constitutional ideological expressions, even of unpopular ones, should be questioned, examined and challenged through civil discourse, not violence. It is with this civility and curiosity that we approach opposing views, which makes our country unique in our freedoms.

The job of all citizens who care about the future of our country is to take up the cause. When someone endorses violence or cruelty toward anyone expressing an opinion, it should be firmly discouraged, while open, civil debate should be encouraged. Civility is more than just good table manners; it is how we defend our democracy.

GOP faces mounting challenges as fractures begin to show

We explore the potential fissures in the Republican party, examining their implications both nationally and in Utah.

The Utah Legislature is dealing with some harsh blows from the courts, the most recent being a district court judge’s ruling requiring them to redraw congressional districts. At the National Press Club, Gov. Spencer Cox issued a warning to the Legislature: “I will say we risk, as the Republican Party in Utah, not listening to people … they did run an initiative, and they felt like they’re being ignored.” Does this imply cracks within local Republican ranks?

Cowley: Voters (by a very slim margin, I might add) supported a redistricting committee to recommend maps to the Legislature. They did not vote for a Salt Lake congressional district gerrymandered for Democrats. If voters thought the outcome of this altruistic-sounding commission would be to reinstate Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the House, they would have soundly rejected the ballot proposition.

Now the Legislature is being forced back to the drawing board, without public input and frankly, without a lot of direction from the judge other than “try again.” This judicially mandated, hastened process doesn’t comply with the language passed in Prop 4 either, so I have to wonder, what’s the goal here?

It’s unlikely the Legislature will draw maps that create a Democratic district, so initiative organizers will inevitably be upset. It isn’t clear what the judge expects the new maps to look like, so there’s a good chance she rejects them. Worst of all, the public is completely cut out of this rushed and haphazard process, so if the governor is suggesting that voters haven’t felt heard before, this will only exacerbate the situation. I fear we are headed for a no-win situation.

Pignanelli: “Persuasion is a vital part of politics.” — James Druckman

Electoral dominance of state and local governments by a political party is a common feature throughout our country’s history. However, democratic ideals compel leaders benefiting from such status to assume a responsibility to the voters who empowered them.

The three initiatives on the 2018 ballot contained serious flaws. The Medicaid expansion proposal mandated budget-busting automatic pay increases for providers. The marijuana proposition allowed recreational use. The Better Boundaries measure established a commission with ridiculous membership prohibitions that excluded many of the best and brightest Utahns. (Even my mother was banned because she committed the sin of being a former elected official.) Yet, the Republican establishment (which is much more than legislators) offered nominal resistance to these efforts.

Concerted efforts to engage with voters may have altered the outcome. But Republican leaders defaulted on the assumption that legislators could handle any problems. Instead of the eternal fight over delegates versus signature gathering, the GOP should have been more interactive with Utahns on the ballot questions, especially regarding redistricting.

Voters deserved a robust discussion in the public arena, not to watch from the sidelines as the courts opine. This is a valuable lesson to those who enjoy overwhelming electoral support.

MAGA had a tough week. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. endured harsh criticism from a Senate committee (including Republicans). President Donald Trump suffered several major court losses regarding his use of National Guard troops in LA, unilateral tariffs and deportations, and received a miserable August jobs report. Does this signal fractures in the GOP and the beginning of Trump’s downfall, right before midterms?

Cowley: Public policy is a constant back-and-forth refinement between branches of government. It appears messy, but it works and works well. The executive branch is testing the limits of its power, trying to fulfill campaign promises by ambitiously and unapologetically pursuing the things Trump was elected to do. As these cases make their way through the judicial system, only the Supreme Court’s decision really matters, and even then, the legislative branch will have a chance to act by either passing bills that will restrict or empower said actions in the future.

RFK Jr. has always been a black sheep, even within his party of origin. He has made a name for himself by questioning the long-held norms of government-implemented science and public health. Policies directing vaccines, COVID response, FDA approvals and food safety standards spark strong and varied opinions. It’s not surprising that as he gets closer to upending this house of cards, individuals from both sides of the aisle will voice objections. Questioning generationally accepted standards, especially from the government, is a healthy exercise.

Pignanelli: The Trump administration is banking on the Supreme Court overturning these decisions — a huge gamble. Conversely, many traditional Republicans are quietly hoping otherwise. They understand that high inflation and unemployment caused by tariffs are the biggest threats in the upcoming elections. Thus, many GOP incumbents may create distance from Trump to survive.

Will Democrats take advantage of this shift in political winds?

National issues are putting Utah on the map

Utah District Court Judge Dianna Gibson ordered the Legislature to redraw congressional maps in accordance with the 2018 Proposition 4 initiative. President Trump shared his disapproval of the ruling, yet Senate President Adams and Speaker Schultz acknowledged they will comply while pursuing other legal remedies. What possible outcomes are predicted?

Cowley: Under normal redistricting circumstances, political cartographers would have months to create maps and solicit public input, yet the judge has placed a 30-day shot clock on map-making. With the extremely short timeline, the Legislature has no choice but to comply while awaiting the outcome of their appeal to the Supreme Court. There is an anticipated special session in September where new maps and related legislation may be presented.

The same people that drew the disputed maps are in the driver’s seat to revise them. It’s unlikely the Legislature will create a Democratic district. Utah could gain a new seat after the next census, which would also be Republican-leaning. Republican domination in Utah will not diminish anytime soon.

https://www.deseret.com/search/?q=Renae+Cowley+%26+Frank+Pignanelli

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

New and old political challenges — redistricting, drought and mail-in voting

By Renae Cowley, Frank Pignanelli

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

Three issues that could challenge Utah’s success have received recent media attention. We offer hope to readers.

According to a Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll, more than 80% of Utahns approve of the ballot mailing system in some form. Yet, President Donald Trump recently promised an executive order eliminating vote-by-mail across the country. Is our preference for electioneering in jeopardy?

Cowley: President Trump blames vote-by-mail for his 2020 loss. Cox stated Trump is right to be suspicious of mail-in ballots due to the increased risk of fraud. Both are correct, but Utah has successfully implemented universal by-mail balloting for almost a decade and does it right.

Last session, HB300 passed, requiring voters to opt-in for by-mail voting and to renew this preference every eight years. Thankfully, the process is easy. This will help clean up voter rolls, ensuring only eligible Utahns cast ballots, reducing fraud.

Our government depends on free and fair elections. This requires a secure process to safeguard our democracy. Our nation also benefits from greater voter participation, which vote-by-mail yields. We don’t have to give up one to get the other. Sen. Lee is right. It should be “easy to vote” but “hard to cheat,” but that doesn’t require the full elimination of by-mail ballots. I, and many of my fellow Utahns, will continue to ardently defend our right to perform our civic duty in fuzzy slippers.

Pignanelli: “Our country … was set up by the Constitution to be a federation of sovereign States, not administrative districts of a Federal Government that retained all the power itself.” — Ronald Reagan

In a Truth Social post, President Trump threatened an executive order to eliminate mail-in voting. He stated, “The States are merely an ‘agent’ for the Federal Government in counting and tabulating the votes.”

It is intriguing (to be kind) how few defenders of the Constitution objected to this convoluted understanding of federalism.

The Constitution authorizes states to appoint electors who will cast ballots for president and vice president without reference to public approval. Indeed, general elections were not used by most states to select electors until 1824. The role of states in determining the president and vice president is almost sacred in this representative democracy.

Utah honors this fundamental right of sovereignty by conducting efficient elections that are almost entirely free from fraud, thanks to a well-managed mailing system. Utahns have worked hard to achieve this success and will retain the benefits, regardless of any potential executive order.

All of Utah is in a drought condition. Parts of the state have faced similar challenges for most of the last 20 years. Lawmakers have been aggressive in funding and altering laws to save the Great Salt Lake and promote greater efficiency. But more is needed. Will it happen?

Cowley: I know firsthand the severity of this year’s drought conditions. My horse pastures have suffered, and our irrigation is getting shut off early. This is a casualty of living in a high, arid desert.

The Great Salt Lake, critical to our ecosystem and lifestyle, contributes to the greatest snow on earth, but experts say it will need an additional 770,000 acre-feet of water annually to reach ideal levels. That is more than twice the capacity of Jordanelle Reservoir.

We can’t legislate our way out of living in this climate. What we can do is be responsible and thrifty with the resources we have. Lush lawns and water-intensive landscaping need to be sacrificed to ensure we meet the bare minimum requirements for drinking water.

Pignanelli: Former speaker Brad Wilson deserves gratitude and respect for how he focused the attention of the Legislature on addressing the Great Salt Lake in water issues. Along with Gov. Spencer Cox and Senate President Stuart Adams, our state leaders adjusted funds and policies towards better use of our water resources. As a result, Utahns overwhelmingly responded by limiting their usage of water in many conservation efforts.

However, if nature continues a measly allocation of precipitation, further modifications to public policy regarding usage will be necessary, especially because of predicted growth. This will require sacrifice and a total collective readjustment towards this precious resource. Utah’s renowned legacy and commitment to excellence will drive practical and successful solutions.

Utah’s Supreme Court just ruled that Utah will need to draw new congressional district maps. Pending an appeal by the Legislature, these new maps will need to be finalized by November so that election officials can prepare for the election. What impact might this have on the upcoming election cycle?

Cowley & Pignanelli: This case will be appealed to the Utah Supreme Court, and possibly the U.S. Supreme Court, which will delay a decision for months, if not years.

Regardless of legal machinations, candidates will file for office in January. Many are already fundraising and readying campaign plans. This uncertainty on congressional maps is compounded by legislative election pressures — increased union involvement (an unavoidable outcome of the referendum) and a left-wing special interest group’s attempt to flip 10 districts from red to blue. If this ruling stands, we will be engaged in an interesting but turbulent election cycle.

NOTE: We recently passed the one-year anniversary of Renae participating in this column. Many readers, including me, are grateful for her perspective.

Utah’s legislative process remains strong

By Frank Pignanelli, Renae Cowley

Republican Renae Cowley is a political consultant, lobbyist, social media influencer and professional rodeo athlete. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature.

Technically, the dog days of summer concluded, but the weather and politics remain hot. We explain this current heat wave.

The media has published several stories of some demanding the resignation of Senate President Stuart Adams. They are alleging that SB213, Criminal Justice Modifications (passed in 2024), was used to help a family member at a sentencing hearing. Was the legislative process thwarted?

Cowley & Pignanelli: “Information is the currency of democracy.” — author unknown

We passionately believe in, and have consistently advocated for, an open and transparent process in government. This experience confirms that state law cannot be altered outside the established process. Every bill must receive affirmative support through every step. No step can be skipped, nor can a majority opposition be bypassed at any point. Otherwise, the legislation fails.

Senate Bill 213 was introduced on February 8, 2024, and contained many amendments to the criminal justice system. On the front page, in the highlighted provisions, was a summary of language modifying the crime of adolescent sexual activity by an 18-year-old enrolled in high school.

The bill was heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee and passed 3-0. It passed the Senate 17-5-7 and no objection to this provision was offered. The language was reviewed in the House Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice committee and passed 6-0-6. The House of Representatives discussed SB213 on February 27, during which a question was raised about this provision. The House sponsor read the provision to the body, and it passed 67-4-4. Due to a House amendment unrelated to this issue, the bill was sent back to the Senate, where it passed 20-4-5. The governor signed SB213 on March 19, 2024.

Special interest organizations, prosecutors, defense lawyers and others reviewed the legislation during the process. (The public can view the legislative history at https://le.utah.gov/~2024/bills/static/SB0213.html.)

Many lawmakers sponsor legislation based on the input of constituents, friends, colleagues, family members and others. Regardless of where the concept originated, all bills undergo the same process, which allows for both discussion and debate.

The modification to public policy criminalizing sexual conduct between an 18-year-old high school student and a minor was approved in an open and transparent process. Those who disagree with the new policy can request a legislator to file legislation and submit it to the same examination SB213 underwent.

Because of the openness and transparency throughout the legislative consideration of SB213, the process was not thwarted. President Adams fulfilled his duties as a lawmaker by submitting this policy change to the scrutiny of a robust and transparent legislative process.

Last week, the primary results were finalized, or filing deadlines closed, in cities with ranked choice voting. What are the hotly contested municipal elections that politicos are watching?

Cowley & Pignanelli: Salt Lake City is maintaining the ranked choice voting system (RCV). Thus, there is no primary, only the general election on November 4. Two of the four city council races promise to be vigorous battles. Usually, incumbents have the advantage. However, due to RCV, a strong sentiment of anti-incumbency can have a greater impact. Therefore, observers are watching the elections in two council districts.

In District 1 (Fairpark, Jordan Meadows, Rose Park and Westpointe), incumbent Victoria Petro is challenged by Yussuf Abdi and Stephen Otterstrom. In District 3 (Avenues, Capitol Hill, Federal Heights, Guadalupe and Marmalade), incumbent Chris Wharton will face Blake McClary and Elizabeth Huntsman in the general election.

Municipal primaries, especially for at-large seats, serve as an electoral warm-up or audition for many candidates, where strategies are tested and voter turnout is scrutinized. We highlight a few such races.

The Provo mayoral primary was a tight two-way finish with just over a 2.5% margin between incumbent Mayor Michelle Kaufusi and former State Representative Marsha Judkins. As these women advance to the ballot in November, expect both to ramp up campaign efforts.

Highlighting a smaller city contest, the Vineyard municipal race is shaping up to be a faction fight where all candidates are aligned as either the “Hatfields” or the “McCoys.” Primary results yielded success from both sides. It will be interesting to see how these results impact each camp’s strategies in the lead-up to the general election.

Public disputes between Salt Lake City and state government leadership percolated last week. Some observers are wondering if the state government mirrors the Trump administration by assuming control of Los Angeles or Washington, D.C. Does this happen?