Today, Judge Dianna Gibson ruled that the Utah Legislature violated the Utah Constitution when it repealed Proposition 4, the voter-approved initiative creating an independent redistricting commission.
The court’s decision restores Prop. 4 in full, blocks the gerrymandered 2021 maps from future elections, and orders the Legislature to produce new congressional maps by September 24, 2025, in strict compliance with Prop. 4’s guidelines.
“Today, Utah voters won,” said Caroline Gleich, professional athlete, environmental advocate, and former U.S. Senate candidate. “This ruling restores power to the people, where it belongs. Unfair maps silence voices. This decision gives Utahns the power back”
Gleich framed the decision as a reaffirmation of Utah’s integrity and fairness:
“This is the Utah way – integrity, fairness and listening to the people,” Gleich said. “By restoring Proposition 4, this ruling honors that tradition and ensures that Utahns, not politicians or special interests, decide our future.”
Utah’s ruling comes amid a wave of redistricting battles nationwide, from Texas to California. At the heart of each case lies the same question: Do politicians pick their voters, or do voters pick their leaders?
“With this decision, Utah joins a growing national movement to defend democracy and protect the power of every vote,” Gleich said. “It’s a reminder that our voices matter and that ordinary people can push back against entrenched power.”
Gleich urged lawmakers to approach the redraw process with transparency and accountability:
“This is more than lines on a map. It’s about who gets a seat at the table and whether every community has a voice,” Gleich said. “Utah deserves leaders who will fight for fair maps, defend our democracy, and tackle our biggest challenges, from protecting public lands and clean air to solving our housing and healthcare crises.
Utahns are paying attention, and so am I.”
