Why an anti-incumbent wave swept major Utah mayor seats

Utah voters ousted mayors across the state on Tuesday, including in Provo and St. George, highlighting concerns over rapid growth and expensive city projects, which made all the difference in low-turnout elections.

Challengers defeated Cottonwood Heights Mayor Mike Weichers, Orem Mayor Dave Young, Provo Mayor Michelle Kaufusi and St. George Mayor Michele Randall — all running for a second term, except Kaufusi who was seeking a third.

Incumbent mayors also lost in the cities of Clinton, Farr West, Harrisville, Hurricane, Mapleton, Monticello and Tremonton, marking a surprising number of upsets statewide in what had been dubbed “the mayoral year” by local politicos.....

The common denominator included persistent frustration with a lack of affordability amid inflation and a federal government shutdown, according to McKell. But each losing incumbent also faced unique controversies that motivated opponents to get out the vote.


https://www.deseret.com/politics/2025/11/07/utah-voters-oust-incumbent-mayors-across-state-for-big-spending-and-growth-management/