Two years ago, I attended the Utah Republican Convention as a neighborhood delegate. I expected spirited debate. I did not expect shouting, name-calling and candidates unable to finish their remarks because of sustained boos and personal insults.
I turned to the delegate next to me and asked what was happening. “This is just Utah politics,” he shrugged.
It shouldn’t be. We can do better.
After the convention, Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson wrote on X that the event was “no longer a family friendly environment,” describing the “vulgarity and viciousness” her young nieces witnessed. Her words echoed what many attendees felt: Name-calling, slurs and intimidation were rampant throughout the 14-hour day.
The irony was striking. The very delegates shouting down candidates held decisive voting power. They did not need to yell; they could simply vote. Convention delegates wield real influence: A candidate who earns 60% of the delegate vote secures the party nomination outright; if no one reaches that threshold, the top two advance to a primary. In some races, the difference between success and defeat comes down to only a handful of votes.
We would not allow booing and name-calling among schoolchildren, yet we tolerate it among adults wielding real power.
If this is “just Utah politics,” then Utah politics needs better delegates who model civility for those who are watching and learning from us.
The solution is simpler than many realize: Attend your neighborhood caucus and elect delegates who treat others with respect, allow voices to be heard even in disagreement, and make informed decisions without shouting down their peers.
Almost everyone complains about politics these days — at the gym, in the grocery store, even at church. There’s plenty to worry about, nationally, locally and internationally. One of the best ways to influence Utah’s political tone is by showing up at your neighborhood caucus and helping choose the people who shape the conventions.
This March 17, Utah Republicans will meet in neighborhood caucus gatherings across the state. Democratic caucus meetings will be held the same night. Attending is also a great way to get to know some of your neighbors and the people shaping your local community.
Attend. Elect delegates who act with civility, discernment and integrity. Your participation has real power.
Politics will never improve if we leave it to the loudest voices or the most theatrical personalities. But if you engage at the grassroots level, you can help ensure that Utah politics reflects the respect, thoughtfulness and community-mindedness it deserves.
Show up. Elect wisely. And help make Utah politics better, one neighborhood caucus at a time.