As the filing period for the 2026 general election in Wasatch County comes to a close, a diverse slate of candidates has emerged for various key positions at the county and district levels. This year’s elections are poised to be competitive, with multiple candidates vying for influential roles that will shape the future of the community. In a significant development, Wasatch County Attorney Scott Sweat, who began his term in 2023, has opted not to seek reelection. His decision leaves the field open for two candidates: Lauren Forsyth, representing the Democratic Party, and Jon Woodard, a Republican and Deputy Attorney for Wasatch County. Forsyth has been vocal about her commitment to community engagement and transparency in the legal process, while Woodard brings experience from his current position, emphasizing his dedication to maintaining law and order in the county. The office of Wasatch County Clerk-Auditor will also see a contested race. Incumbent Joey Granger, a registered Republican, is seeking reelection after successfully completing her first full term. She faces a challenge from Michelle Kellogg, the Recorder for Park City and also a Republican. Granger has focused on improving county services and enhancing voter accessibility, while Kellogg aims to introduce new efficiencies in the office. In a notable shift, Luke Searle, who currently holds at-large Seat A on the Wasatch County Council, will not be running for reelection. Instead, Searle has declared his candidacy for Utah House District 59. His decision has opened the door for several Republican contenders: Steve Farrell, Rachel Kahler, and William Vance, along with Democratic candidate Patrick Saucier. Each candidate brings distinct perspectives on issues ranging from local governance to economic development, ensuring a dynamic race. Current County Councilor Erik Rowland, a Republican, is running unopposed for Seat C, which covers a substantial portion of Heber City. Rowland’s focus has been on managing growth and infrastructure needs in the rapidly developing area, making his continuation in office critical for local residents. Meanwhile, incumbent Karl McMillan is campaigning for reelection to Seat F on the County Council amidst a competitive field. McMillan faces challenges from fellow Republicans Bruce Zollinger and Michael Murphy, as well as Democrat Joseph Tugaw. Each candidate has articulated visions for improving local services and addressing the unique challenges facing Wasatch County. In the race for Wasatch County Sheriff, incumbent Jared Rigby is seeking a third term in office. He faces two challengers: Jeremy Hales, the Emergency Management Director for Wasatch County, and Eric Mainord, a detective with the Summit County Sheriff’s Office. All three candidates are registered Republicans and have emphasized the importance of community safety and proactive policing strategies in their campaigns. The Wasatch County School District board is also undergoing changes, with Vice President Cory Holmes choosing not to seek reelection. Two candidates, Erin Sabey and Josh Cieslewicz, have filed to run for Seat C on the school board, indicating a commitment to addressing educational needs and responding to the community’s concerns about school funding and curriculum. Jacob Collett, who was appointed to Seat D earlier this year, is running unopposed for his first full term. It is noteworthy that school board elections in Wasatch County are nonpartisan, allowing candidates to focus on educational issues without party affiliations influencing the election dynamics. Each school board seat carries a four-year term, and the outcomes will significantly impact local educational policies. Looking to the state level, the race for Utah House District 59 is heating up as current Representative Mike Kohler has announced he will not seek reelection. Four candidates have emerged to fill the vacancy: Democratic hopefuls Celeste Johnson and Micah Kagan are competing against Republican candidates Mark Allen and Searle. This race is particularly significant, as it reflects shifting political dynamics in the area. The Wasatch County Republican Party has scheduled its caucus for March 17 at Wasatch High School, with the party’s convention set for April 7 at Rocky Mountain Middle School. Meanwhile, details about the Wasatch County Democratic Party’s caucus and convention are anticipated shortly. Notably, Utah S.B. 54 allows candidates to bypass traditional party conventions by gathering voter signatures to secure spots on primary election ballots, providing more pathways for candidates to participate in the electoral process. As the political landscape evolves, the deadline for candidates to change party affiliations is April 1. The primary election is scheduled for June 23, leading up to the general election on November 3. With a competitive field of candidates across various offices, Wasatch County residents are encouraged to engage in the electoral process and make their voices heard in this pivotal election year.