Stewart leads in polls as he seeks to defend 2nd Congressional District seat

SALT LAKE CITY — Rep. Chris Stewart has an initial lead over Democrat Kael Weston in the race for Utah’s 2nd Congressional District, preliminary results show. The first look at polling numbers show Stewart leading with 58.24% with Weston trailing at 37.96%. 

Libertarian candidate Robert Latham trailing third at 3.79%. 

But these numbers are not official and will continue to be updated over the next few days. 

Weston seeks to unseat Stewart

Although there are three candidates on the ballot, the race has largely focused on the major party contenders: Stewart and Weston. 

While the two seem similar in experience — both citing military backgrounds and authoring several works — Weston has made it his campaign promise that he couldn’t be more different from the incumbent. 

During the first and only debate between the candidates Oct. 19, Weston spent the night drawing harsh lines between him and his Republican opponent. 

“This is 100% difference here tonight,” Weston said. 

Weston criticized the congressman on his performance in office, arguing Stewart hasn’t done an adequate job representing his district. 

“My opponent seems to have a low opinion of me, I didn’t realize that until tonight,” Stewart said. 

“Just a fair warning,” Weston quipped.