Incumbent Blake Moore and Karianne Lisonbee are set to compete in the June 23, 2026, Republican primary for Utah's 2nd Congressional District, a race occurring amidst significant changes to the state's congressional boundaries.
Redistricting and court rulings
The upcoming election follows a period of intense redistricting activity in Utah. According to Ballotpedia, a 2025 federal court ruling struck down the state's previous congressional map after determining the legislature had violated voters' constitutional rights by overturning Proposition 4. This 2018 ballot measure had originally established an independent redistricting commission.
New legislative redistricting committee
The political landscape for the 2nd District has been further complicated by the work of the 2025 Legislative Redistricting Committee. Formed following a Third District Court ruling, the committee was tasked with redrawing maps that comply with Proposition 4. As Senator Scott Sandall noted, the committee's priority was to create a fair and balanced map reflecting Utah's growth.
Endorsements and political histories
The primary features a clash of endorsements and political histories. Utah Senate President Stuart Adams has endorsed Moore, while Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz has endorsed Lisonbee.
Controversy over Moore's past role
Political friction exists regarding Moore's past role on the committee that supported Proposition 4. As Politico's Samuel Benson reported, his co-chairmanship of that committee has fueled a primary challenge, with political opponents using the nickname 'Salt Lake Blake' to suggest he run in more Democratic-leaning districts.
Candidate backgrounds and election results
Moore, who was elected to the House in 2020 and serves as vice chairman of the House Republican Conference, describes his record as one of the most effective in his class. Lisonbee, who served on the Syracuse City Council from 2011 to 2017 and was elected to the Utah House of Representatives in 2016, defeated Moore at the nominating convention with 61.5% of the vote.
Primary ratings and general election
The Republican primary is rated as solid Republican by Cook Political Report and Inside Elections, while Sabato's Crystal Ball classifies it as safe Republican. The general election for the seat is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
