Your Daily Guide

Early election results are in, and there's a lot to unpack. Remember, it isn't over until every vote is counted by the final canvass on Nov. 17, and some smaller races could be determined by just a handful of votes! Still, here’s our read of the initial results, as of 5 a.m. Wednesday.

Democrats Sweep the Ballot

• Congress: Democrat Ben McAdams is headed back to Washington, after the Associated Press named him the winner in the 1st Congressional District race. It's the first time in eight years that Utah voters went blue in a federal election (the last time was also for McAdams). His victory follows the redrawing of the state's congressional map. He'll definitely join Republican incumbent Rep. Celeste Maloy, and likely Reps. Blake Moore and Mike Kennedy.
• Salt Lake County Council: Dems are poised to take control of the county's legislative body for the first time in 15 years. Early returns show Zach Robinson (D) ahead of Kathleen Anderson (R) for the countywide At-Large A seat, and Luke Maynes (D) leading Mike Bird (R) for District 3. Republicans could hold onto District 5, where Traci Crockett (R) leads Sara Cimmers (D).
• Legislature: Even the supermajority GOP Legislature couldn’t escape the blue wave. In Salt Lake County, multiple seats in both the House and Senate appear likely to flip from Republican to Democrat, including House District 26 in West Valley, where GOP Rep. Matt MacPherson lost to Democratic challenger Michael Finch.

Voters Knock Amendment B

Amendment B — the Legislature's proposal to increase the approval threshold to 60% for ballot initiatives that raise taxes — has failed, with just 38% of voters supporting the proposal. That's after opponents spent $3 million on anti-amendment messaging in the run-up to Election Day. Amendment A, which changes publication requirements for amendments, is faring better, with 60% approval.

Salt Lakers Support Parks Funding

Voters seem hyped on Salt Lake County's $128 million parks and recreation bond, with 60.8% approval. The money would pay for new projects, upgrades, and repairs throughout the county system. The support isn't surprising, considering residents' longtime approval of the Zoo, Arts, and Parks tax and Salt Lake City voters' approval of 2022's $85 million parks bond.

Want even more analysis? Listen to this morning's podcast, where host Ali Vallarta and I chat about what these results say about the state of Utah politics.

Submit a Film for Festival

Do you have a compelling story to tell? The Wasatch Mountain Film Festival is now accepting film submissions for its 2027 event. Organizers seek entries that push boundaries, spark curiosity, and provide fresh perspectives. Submit your film by Dec. 31. [Wasatch Mountain Film Festival]

Get Your Utilities Paid For

The Home Energy Assistance Target is a federal program that may help you pay your heating bill this winter. It helps cover part of the utility bills for low-income families. If you qualify, you could get a one-time payment of up to $500. Utah residents can apply for HEAT assistance online now. [KSL, Utah Department of Workforce Services]

Old Cuss Calls It Quits

Utah vegetarian restaurant Old Cuss Cafe is shutting down after years of financial difficulty. If you're feeling nostalgic, you can buy a piece of it or even the whole business. The owner is selling furniture, recipes, and equipment. [Instagram]