Utah Democrats are making history. For the 2026 election cycle, Democrats filed candidates in 88 of 98 races statewide – an unprecedented 90% coverage, marking the strongest and broadest slate in nearly two decades!
“This filing period demonstrates the breadth and depth of our party,” said Chair Brian King. “Democrats are running in urban districts, suburban communities, rural areas, and multi-county districts. We are present where we have historically been underrepresented and even uncontested, proving that Utah Democrats are organized, competitive, and building for the future.”
The historic 2026 candidate slate reflects a growing bench of leaders motivated by service, and a commitment to solving real problems facing Utahns. Across the state, candidates are stepping forward with firsthand experience and a shared focus on affordability, healthcare, and accountable government. “As a Tongan American woman growing up in Utah, I’ve worked to build strong communities over the last 20 years,” said Ofa Matagi, a candidate for House District 43. “I believe it’s time Sandy had a leader who can advocate for all Utahns up on the Hill.”
That same focus carries through races at every level of government. Araueni Olivares, running for State Board of Education District 8, emphasized the importance of listening and responsiveness in shaping public policy. “I’m so energized to be running for the State Board, and I’m ready to bring a different perspective, listen, and elevate constituent-driven ideas,” Olivares said. “I want to help ensure that every student has access to a high-quality and well-supported public education, regardless of their background or ZIP code.” In House District 10, Dr. Rosemary Lesser brings a career in medicine to her campaign, underscoring the slate’s emphasis on practical experience and problem-solving. “As a physician, I’ve spent my career caring for people and navigating our healthcare system alongside patients and families,” said Lesser. “I’m running because Utah needs leaders who understand healthcare from the inside – and who can turn that firsthand experience into practical, patient-centered solutions that improve care and lower costs for Utahns.”
This record-setting recruitment reflects a commitment to both immediate challenges and long-term solutions. The depth and breadth of candidates running in this cycle position Democrats to offer meaningful representation, deliver practical solutions, and carry forward a vision focused on accountability, opportunity, and care for the places and people they serve.
Breaking it down:
- State Senate: Democrats filed in 14 of 15 races (93%), including four races with multiple Democratic candidates.
- State House: Democrats filed in 66 of 75 races (88%), with 17 races featuring multiple candidates.
- State Board of Education: Democrats achieved 100% coverage (8 of 8 races), with 1 race featuring multiple candidates, completing a full statewide slate.
These record-setting numbers are the result of months of hard work by Candidate Recruitment Chairs, committees, county parties, caucuses, state party staff, and an army of volunteers who worked tirelessly during the fast-moving filing window. “This filing period shows what happens when a party is clear about its priorities and committed to showing up everywhere,” said Josh Warburton, Candidate Recruitment Committee Chair. “Utahns want leaders who take today’s challenges seriously and are willing to plan responsibly for the future, and this slate reflects that commitment.”
Utah Democrats are not just participating – they are leading, competing, and shaping the future of our state. By running candidates in nearly every district, the party has expanded its bench, strengthened statewide organization, and positioned itself for success in both the immediate and long-term future.
