Lt Governor Deidre Henderson’s pushback on a Department of Justice’s request for our voter rolls and Judge Gibson’s reinstatement of Proposition 4 (Better Boundaries) as Utah law stand as beacons of hope in the midst of accelerated assaults on our democracy. Administration efforts to restrict ballot access and promote partisan gerrymandering are central to those efforts and go to the foundational core of government “of the people.”
As noted, the DOJ requested state voter rolls, inclusive of sensitive data. Beyond noting that the conduct of elections is a state responsibility, it seems probable that DOJ’s intentions include extensive voter purges and inappropriate use of sensitive information. Lt Governor Henderson’s pushback is commendable, as were her recent efforts to educate Utah legislators on the robust safeguards and processes her office uses to ensure the integrity and accuracy of our voter rolls.
Judge Gibson’s decision to restore Prop 4 and invalidate our gerrymandered Congressional districts is a huge win for true representation. Utah districts deliberately drawn to dilute the voice of Salt Lake County voters have harmed all Utahns. Her ruling just gave Utahns the right to fair, un-gerrymandered districts. It couldn’t have come at a better time, as Trump’s demand that Texas give him five more Republican Congressional Representatives has launched an unprecedented mid-cycle national redistricting war. The clearly stated goal is that of entrenching one party rule.
Join me in urging our Legislators to take the high road and stop tampering with Utah’s election processes–they are among the most accessible and secure in the country. They must respect the independence of our judiciary and not attempt to hamstring it further. Urge them to drop the appeals, respect voters, and create fair Congressional Districts for the 2026 elections. Competitive districts will ensure real representation for all.
Dr. Ellen Brady is a retired physician with a public health degree. She spent most of her career in the pharmaceutical industry. She currently serves as the Issues Director for the Women’s Democratic Club.
