Utah Legislature Approves Revised Congressional Map, Potentially Boosting Democratic Chances

Utah’s state Legislature yesterday approved a new congressional map that could modestly improve Democrats’ prospects in the 2024 election, though the state remains heavily Republican.

The revised map, mandated after a judge struck down the previous version for violating standards designed to prevent partisan gerrymandering, places Salt Lake City within a single district extending into rural areas. Redistricting experts, like those at the Brennan Center for Justice, note this is the least competitive option lawmakers considered, but still an improvement over the prior map. “Although it’s not as competitive as I think the plaintiffs would want, I think it’s far better than the map that currently exists — a stark improvement,” said Jonathan Cervas, a redistricting expert at Carnegie Mellon University.

Despite the changes, Republicans still hold a significant advantage in all four of Utah’s congressional districts. The move comes as national Democrats seek to regain control of the House of Representatives, needing to net just three seats in the 2024 election. Ken Martin, chair of the Democratic National Committee, called the new map a “prime pickup opportunity,” while Republican state Sen. Scott Sandall expressed confidence the judge would approve it. The previous map had significantly divided Salt Lake County, a Democratic stronghold, leading to consistent Republican victories.

Lawmakers also amended Proposition 4, a 2018 voter-approved ballot initiative, requiring new districts to align with Utah’s overall statewide election results, a move voting rights groups argue is an attempt to “change the rules of the game.” Judge Dianna Gibson will now review the map, and if rejected, a legal battle over the court’s authority to create its own map is anticipated. Read more about the implications of redistricting here.

The map must be reviewed by a judge, who is expected to approve a new map by November.