Kennedy and Larsen Will Debate in Utah 4th District

The Utah Debate Commission will host candidates on October 8 to discuss key platform issues at Snow College.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Elections

Kennedy and Larsen Will Debate in Utah 4th District

Live Poll

Do you trust the candidates running for office in your district to lower local living costs?

Candidates Mike Kennedy and Jonny Larsen will participate in a debate on October 8, 2026, at Snow College. The discussion will focus on critical platform issues including housing, healthcare, and affordability within Utah's 4th Congressional District.

Why it matters

This debate provides a platform for voters to evaluate the candidates as the district prepares for its upcoming midterm election. It follows significant changes in the local political landscape, including the redrawing of congressional maps in 2025 and the departure of incumbent Burgess Owens.

A September 2026 poll shows Mike Kennedy leading the race with 41.7% support compared to 32.9% for Jonny Larsen. The remaining 25.4% of the electorate remains undecided or favors other candidates.

The players

Mike Kennedy

He is the current U.S. Representative for Utah's 3rd Congressional District.

Jonny Larsen

He is a candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives in Utah's 4th District.

Donald Trump

He is the current President of the United States.

Burgess Owens

He previously served as the U.S. Representative for Utah's 4th Congressional District.

Utah Debate Commission

This is a nonpartisan organization that facilitates debates for political candidates in Utah.

The details

Candidates are expected to address pressing local and national concerns, including healthcare, housing, and general economic affordability. The district, which spans portions of Salt Lake, Utah, and Tooele counties, has been a focal point for electoral attention since the 2025 map redistricting.

November 2025: Utah congressional district maps were redrawn.
May 9, 2025: Jonny Larsen filed his candidacy.
March 2026: Burgess Owens announced he would not seek reelection.
June 18, 2026: Donald Trump endorsed Mike Kennedy.
October 8, 2026: Kennedy and Larsen will debate.

Political Context

Opponents of the current district configuration argue that the redrawn 2025 maps have altered the competitive balance across the state. Critics frequently highlight the decrease in safe Republican districts in Utah, from four down to three, as a primary point of partisan contention.

Voters residing within the 4th Congressional District should monitor the debate to understand how each candidate intends to address housing and healthcare costs. The policy positions articulated during the event will directly influence the regulatory priorities affecting the district's residents after the election.

The takeaway

The upcoming debate serves as a critical opportunity for voters to discern the policy differences between Kennedy and Larsen. Residents should review the candidates' specific proposals on affordability to prepare for their participation in the upcoming election.