Incumbent U.S. Representative Celeste Malymoy and former state Representative Phil Lyman will compete in the June 23 Republican primary for Utah's 3rd Congressional District, according to official candidate lists and election records.
Convention results and primary details
The primary election follows a closely contested nominating convention held by the Republican Party of Utah on April 25. During that meeting, Maloy defeated Lyman with 51% of the vote to 49% after two rounds of voting, according to Ballotpedia. Under party rules, a candidate must reach a 60% threshold to advance unopposed; because no candidate reached that mark, both candidates advanced to the primary.
Impact of new district boundaries
The contest occurs under newly drawn congressional boundaries following a district court ruling that the state's 2021 map constituted a partisan gerrymander. As Ballotpedia reported, this redistricting has created a more conservative-leaning district, potentially providing an opportunity for Lyman to challenge Maloy.
Maloy's platform and endorsements
Maloy, who was first elected in a 2023 special election and won her first full term in 2024, is campaigning on her experience as an appropriator. She has stated she is working with President Donald Trump to secure funding for the Great Salt Lake and intends to continue reducing energy regulations to support domestic production. Maloy has received endorsements from President Trump and retiring U.S. Representative Burgess Owens.
Lyman's background and campaign focus
Lyman, a former member of the Utah House of Representatives, previously ran as both a Republican primary and independent candidate for governor in 2024. His campaign platform focuses on preserving Utah's control over public lands.
Upcoming election dates and details
The Republican primary is scheduled for June 23, 2026, with the general election to follow on November 3, 2026. The Utah Republican Party has officially listed both individuals as candidates for the 3rd District Senate seat.
