Survey explores what would boost Utah voter confidence

SALT LAKE CITY — With the 2025 General Session coming up, Utahns were asked what policies would increase voter confidence in the elections process.

 

The data comes from the Sutherland Institute and Y2 Analytics. It found 74% of Utah voters prefer to stick with elected officials running the state elections instead of appointing someone.

Another policy that voters are interested in is requiring a photo ID when voting by mail. Those surveyed would be 31% more confident in the election if this policy was implemented.

“Requiting photo ID when you return your ballot in the mail or ensuring that election results are reported more quickly on Election Day or by election night… Voter confidence grows under those scenarios, in significant ways,” said Sutherland Institute Chief Growth Officer Derek Monson.

Monson said they also discovered some turnoffs for voters.

“When there are policies put forward that would restrict how people can return their ballots [like] eliminating the ability to mail in the ballot or … trying to shoehorn people into voting in person, that knocks their confidence down,” Monson said.

These suggestions were all part of an election policy discussion hosted by the Sutherland Institute on Wednesday. Making elections more secure has been listed as a top priority for members of the state Legislature for 2025.

Related: What’s on tap for Great Salt Lake in the 2025 Utah General Legislative Session