Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
It's Election Day.
Even if you're not particularly civic-minded, chances are you vote in the U.S. presidential elections. In fact, more than 85% of registered voters in Utah cast a ballot in the 2024 race. But when it comes to local elections in Utah, voter turnout can be a little sparse.
Utah voter turnout
If primary municipal elections in Utah for 2025 are any indication, your neighbors aren't as motivated to vote in so-called off years. In the primaries of multiple cities, Utah voter turnout averaged 20% to 30%, depending on the district.
Admittedly, it's easier to get swept up in the excitement of national elections, whether for a new president or U.S. lawmaker. There's usually steady media coverage and televised debates between the candidates. Supporters display yard signs, flags and bumper stickers. You'd be hard-pressed to scroll through social media without seeing lively discussions.
What local elections include
While national officers play an important role for the country as a whole, municipal elections allow you to choose the people who directly shape your community. Utah elections for 2025 will include candidates for roles such as mayor, city council member, county commissioner and school board member.
These are the individuals who will determine how local budgets are allocated and approve local ordinances. They decide educational goals for your children's schools. Municipal elections in Utah often include bond decisions, too, which may influence your local taxes.
Low voter turnout may imply that people don't feel local elections are important. However, researchers suggest that when regular citizens choose to skip municipal elections, special interest groups are more likely to influence the results.
Tell us your voting habits
What kind of voter are you? Do you regularly vote in municipal elections? Do you only vote when there's a candidate or issue you care about? Tell us your voting habits in this week's poll on Instagram or in the comments below: Do you vote in municipal elections — always, sometimes or never?
