Utah lawmakers pass new GOP-backed congressional map

Utah lawmakers on Monday approved new congressional district lines aimed at preserving the state’s all-Republican delegation after a court ordered redistricting ahead of next year’s midterms.

The proposed map splits Democratic-leaning Salt Lake County into two districts instead of four, making them somewhat more competitive while keeping the other districts solidly GOP.

Republicans defended the map as compliant with a 2018 voter-approved measure prohibiting gerrymandering and requiring compact, community-focused districts, though critics argue it reflects partisan bias.

The map still requires Gov. Spencer Cox’s signature and court approval by November 10, NBC News has reported.

Utah’s redistricting is part of a broader nationwide battle, with states like Texas, California, Missouri, and Ohio also pursuing mid-decade map changes to influence party advantage ahead of 2026.