Democratic Senator Karen Mayne resigns from Utah Senate

SALT LAKE CITY — Democratic Senator Karen Mayne has submitted her letter of resignation from the Utah Senate. Mayne represents Kearns in District 12 of Salt Lake County.

The senator said her health has taken an unexpected turn, and that she does not feel she can give the full-time representation that her constituents deserve. Mayne announced in 2022 that she had cancer.

Mayne was just re-elected to her office. She also serves as a part of the Utah Senate leadership. According to Utah Senate President Stuart Adams Chair Diane Lewis, Democratic state delegates from Senate District 12 will vote in a special election to fill the seat.

In a statement, Utah Senate President Stuart Adams noted Sen. Mayne’s wisdom and fortitude.

With grace and tact, Sen. Mayne has navigated difficult circumstances and been a true champion for her district and the state of Utah. I am lucky to call her a dear friend and will miss her wisdom and fortitude in the Senate. Throughout her 15 years in the Legislature, she has passionately advocated for impactful change, including workforce safety, economic opportunity and family support.

Sen. Luz Escamilla said that Mayne’s legacy will include a dedication to compassionate public policy.

 She has consistently championed legislation to support the health, well-being, and security of working families throughout the state of Utah. Her extensive legacy is a guiding light for public policy to embrace more compassion, more care, and more attention to the people of Utah. Determination to create sincere partnerships with her colleagues to forward the most important business to lift all Utahns was always at the forefront of her work.

In her statement, Utah Democratic Party Chair Diane Lewis discussed how Mayne’s absence will be felt.

The loss of Senator Mayne’s leadership in the Senate will be felt deeply, but her legacy of public service will not be forgotten. We are sending our well-wishes to her and her family, and we sincerely thank her for her dedication and service to our state.”

Senator Mayne’s resignation will be effective January 16.

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