Utah Democrats may be positioned to achieve their most significant legislative gains since 1986, according to an analysis from the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.
Potential for Legislative Gains
The Hinckley Institute of Politics, which provides political analysis and research, noted that the current political landscape could allow for unprecedented progress for the Democratic party within the state legislature. This potential shift represents a major milestone for the party, as the last time such gains were observed was in 1986.
Hinckley Institute Leadership
The Institute's leadership includes several professionals with extensive experience in public sector policy and legislative affairs. Jason Perry, JD, serves as the Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics and is also the Vice President for Government Relations for the University of Utah. Perry has over 25 years of experience in the public sector, having worked with policy makers at local, state, and federal levels.
Perry's Public Sector Career
Perry's background includes serving as the Chief of Staff to Governor Gary Herbert and as the Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development under Jon Huntsman. During his tenure under Huntsman, Perry was recognized as CEO of the Year by Utah Business Magazine. His career also includes work in the Attorney General’s office and roles as an intern and staff member for Senator Orrin Hatch.
Institute Administration
The Institute is supported by a diverse team of administrators and specialists. Morgan Lyon Cotti, PhD, serves as the Associate Director and manages local and legislative internships while contributing to political analysis and research. Natalie Tippets, MS, also serves as an Associate Director for Government Relations at the University of Utah and acts as a producer of The Hinckley Report.
Internship and Development Programs
Other key members of the Hinckley team include Gina Shipley, MPA, who has served as the Managing Director of National Internships and Development Officer since 2014. She oversees both the national and DC internship programs and manages development and alumni relations. Jean Oh, M. Ed., serves as the Managing Director of Global Internships, a role she has held since 2017 after previously serving as the Director of UAC Student Services and Main Campus Operations.
Community and Marketing Efforts
The Institute's outreach and marketing efforts are led by Brooke Doner, the Director of Marketing, and Chase M. Nelson, MPA, the Community Engagement Manager. Nelson, who joined the Institute in 2025, leads community engagement, coordinates public forums and special events, and cultivates relationships with stakeholders. Isabel Spencer serves as the Outreach Coordinator.
Global and Legislative Engagement
Global engagement is supported by Keith Grover, MEd, EdD, a Global Engagement Specialist. Grover, a current member of the Utah Senate and a former Representative for 10 years, has been involved in international programs for five years, including the establishment of the Utah Asian campus in Songdo, Korea. He previously served as a teacher and administrator in the Jordan and Alpine public education districts for 25 years.
