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The Long Decline — and Possible Revival — of Utah Democrats

Macy Lipkin
/
KUEr

Utah Democrats minted a new leader in Brian King over the weekend. But with the party relegated to the political margins in a state dominated by a Republican supermajority, some are wondering if anyone can  turn its fortunes around.

According to insiders, the Utah Democratic Party has reached an historic low point — politically speaking, it’s on life support. No Democrat has held statewide office in a generation. The party holds no legislative seats outside of Salt Lake County, its longtime stronghold, and even there, its grip is slipping, with recent candidates unable to secure key victories. Some observers blame the extended losing streak on cultural misalignment. Or on internal divisions. Or structural disadvantages, poor candidate recruitment, limited fundraising ability and a toxic brand. It’s a long list. Yet, amid the bleakness, find glimmers of hope. The political consultants and influencers Gabi Finlayson and Jackie Morgan actually think Utah could be the next red state to turn blue. And King, the new party chair, also sees the party's glass as half-full. It won’t be easy, he says, but if Democrats can thread the needle between progressive values and Utah's conservative culture, reconcile pragmatism with principle, and learn to speak to Utahns in a language that resonates, then they could begin to bring balance to Utah’s political playing field.

 

GUESTS —

Robert Gehrke | Reporter at The Salt Lake Tribune

Brian King | Utah Democratic Party Chair

 
Airdate: Thurs., June 5, 2025 at 9 a.m. and Sat., June 7, 2025 at 11 a.m. 

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