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Perspective: The dream of 'Blutah' can still come true for Democrats

Perspective: The Dream of a Blue Utah Can Still Come True

In the heart of the American West, Utah stands as a bastion of conservative values, deeply rooted in its Mormon heritage and Republican dominance. For decades, the state has been painted a deep shade of red on electoral maps, with Democrats often relegated to the sidelines, their voices drowned out by the overwhelming influence of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a political culture that prizes traditional family values, fiscal conservatism, and limited government intervention. Yet, beneath this seemingly impenetrable facade, there flickers a persistent dream among progressives and moderates: the vision of a "blue Utah," where Democratic ideals gain traction, progressive policies take hold, and the state evolves into a more balanced political entity. This perspective piece argues that, despite recent setbacks, this dream is far from dead—it's evolving, adapting to the state's unique dynamics, and showing signs of potential fruition in the not-too-distant future.

To understand the feasibility of a blue Utah, one must first grapple with its historical context. Since joining the Union in 1896, Utah has been a Republican stronghold, with only sporadic Democratic successes, such as during the New Deal era or the governorship of Scott Matheson in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The state's population, heavily influenced by the LDS Church, has traditionally aligned with GOP principles on issues like abortion, same-sex marriage, and religious freedom. This alignment was epitomized in figures like Orrin Hatch, who served as a senator for over four decades, embodying the fusion of faith and conservatism. However, cracks in this monolith began to appear in the 21st century. The rise of Donald Trump in 2016 exposed divisions within Utah's Republican base. Many Latter-day Saints, valuing decorum and moral integrity, recoiled from Trump's brash style and personal controversies. In that year's election, Trump won Utah but with a narrower margin than expected, thanks in part to independent candidate Evan McMullin, a Mormon and former CIA officer, who siphoned off 21% of the vote—mostly from disaffected Republicans.

This undercurrent of dissatisfaction has fueled optimism among Democrats. The state's rapid population growth, driven by an influx of tech workers, young professionals, and retirees from liberal strongholds like California and Colorado, is reshaping its demographics. Utah's Wasatch Front, encompassing Salt Lake City and its suburbs, is becoming more urban, diverse, and educated. According to recent census data, the non-Mormon population has surged, now comprising nearly half of the state's residents, up from about a third two decades ago. This shift is particularly evident in Salt Lake County, where Democrats have made inroads, flipping seats in local elections and even capturing the mayor's office in Salt Lake City multiple times. Figures like Ben McAdams, who won a congressional seat in 2018 by appealing to moderate voters with a message of bipartisanship and pragmatism, demonstrate that Democrats can compete when they tailor their platforms to Utah's values—emphasizing family, community, and environmental stewardship rather than polarizing national issues.

Environmental concerns, in particular, offer a fertile ground for Democratic gains. Utah's stunning natural landscapes, from the red rock canyons of Moab to the snow-capped peaks of the Wasatch Range, are under threat from climate change, air pollution, and unchecked development. The state's infamous inversion events, where smog blankets the valleys, have galvanized public opinion, with polls showing broad support for cleaner energy initiatives. Democrats have capitalized on this by advocating for renewable energy, conservation, and sustainable growth—positions that resonate even among conservative voters who cherish outdoor recreation as part of their lifestyle. Moreover, the LDS Church's own evolving stances, such as its support for LGBTQ+ nondiscrimination laws and emphasis on caring for the environment as stewardship of God's creation, provide openings for progressive arguments framed in moral and religious terms.

Yet, the path to a blue Utah is fraught with obstacles. The state's Republican supermajority in the legislature ensures that gerrymandering and voter suppression tactics—such as restrictive ballot initiatives and redistricting—maintain the status quo. The 2022 midterm elections underscored this reality: Despite high hopes, Democrats failed to unseat incumbents like Senator Mike Lee, who fended off a challenge from independent Evan McMullin (backed by Democrats in a strategic alliance). Lee's victory, albeit by a slimmer margin than in previous cycles, highlighted the enduring loyalty of the GOP base, particularly in rural areas where economic ties to industries like mining and agriculture align with conservative policies. Additionally, internal divisions within the Democratic Party—between progressive activists pushing for bold changes on issues like healthcare and inequality, and moderates advocating a more centrist approach—have sometimes alienated potential swing voters.

Despite these challenges, there are compelling reasons for optimism. The retirement of moderate Republicans like Mitt Romney, who has often criticized his party's extremes, could create vacancies that Democrats or independents might exploit. Romney's own 2018 Senate win, followed by his principled stands against Trump, including voting for impeachment, has modeled a brand of conservatism that appeals to Utahns weary of partisanship. Emerging Democratic leaders, such as state representatives like Brian King or emerging figures in the tech sector, are building coalitions that bridge urban-rural divides. Youth voter turnout is another bright spot: Utah's universities, including Brigham Young University, are producing a generation less tied to traditional party lines, with many young Mormons embracing social justice causes influenced by global movements like Black Lives Matter and climate activism.

Furthermore, national trends could tip the scales. As the Republican Party nationally veers further right under influences like MAGA ideology, Utah's unique brand of conservatism—more libertarian and less authoritarian—may lead to a realignment. Polling from organizations like the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah shows increasing numbers of independents and unaffiliated voters, who now make up over 40% of the electorate. If Democrats can harness this group by focusing on kitchen-table issues like affordable housing, education funding, and healthcare access—issues that transcend ideology—they stand a chance of making inroads.

In envisioning a blue Utah, it's not about a complete partisan flip but rather a purple evolution, where competition fosters better governance. Imagine a state where environmental protections are robust, where women's rights are safeguarded amid national debates on reproductive freedom, and where economic innovation thrives without leaving behind the working class. This dream is bolstered by grassroots efforts, such as the Better Boundaries initiative, which successfully pushed for independent redistricting before being partially overturned by the legislature. Activists continue to fight for fair maps, voter access, and campaign finance reform, laying the groundwork for future victories.

Ultimately, the dream of a blue Utah persists because the state itself is changing. Its people, known for their resilience and community spirit, are not monolithic. As one local commentator noted, "Utahns vote with their values, not just their party." By aligning progressive policies with those values—faith, family, and freedom—Democrats can turn aspiration into reality. The road may be long, winding through the canyons of political inertia, but the horizon shows promise. In a nation divided, Utah could emerge as a model of how moderation and progress coexist, proving that even the reddest states can harbor shades of blue. (Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full Deseret News Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/perspective-dream-blutah-still-come-030000052.html ]