In a surprising twist in Utah politics, former Representative Ben McAdams might just be the Democratic Party's ticket to reclaiming a seat in the deeply Republican state. With new political boundaries drawn and the support of the influential Welcome PAC, which champions moderate over progressive candidates, McAdams is once again stepping into the limelight.

Welcome PAC has thrown its weight behind McAdams in anticipation of a newly created district, an initiative sparked by a nationwide redistricting campaign initiated under the Trump administration. An email leaked to POLITICO highlighted McAdams as a "superstar," suggesting that his past electoral success could be a harbinger of future victories for the Democrats.

Utah’s political landscape has been notoriously challenging for Democrats, with federal race margins previously soaring to +23 points. However, court-ordered redistricting has now reshaped the battleground, presenting districts with more competitive margins of R+6 and R+11. This shift offers a glimmer of hope for Democrats aiming to penetrate the Republican stronghold.

McAdams, who previously unseated the late Rep. Mia Love in 2018 and narrowly lost to Republican Burgess Owens in 2020, has filed a statement of candidacy with the FEC, gearing up for what many anticipate will be a fierce electoral battle once the new district maps are finalized.

Liam Kerr, co-founder of Welcome PAC, expressed strong support for McAdams, describing him as the most robust Democratic contender in nearly a decade. Kerr emphasized the strategic importance of backing McAdams, indicating that his potential candidacy could serve as a model for Democrats seeking rejuvenation after setbacks in the 2024 elections.

The race is still open, with other potential Democratic contenders like 2024 Senate candidate Caroline Gleich and state Senators Kathleen Riebe and Nate Blouin. However, none have formally declared their candidacy, leaving McAdams as the current frontrunner.

McAdams's political pedigree includes stints as a member of the Blue Dogs and the New Democrats caucus, as well as serving as the mayor of Salt Lake County before his congressional tenure. His centrist stance and proven electoral appeal in Utah make him a vital asset for Democrats looking to regain lost ground.

As the finalization of Utah’s congressional map looms — expected by November 10 — Democrats are rallying around the opportunity to make significant inroads in the 2026 elections. According to a Utah Democratic strategist, the party is acutely aware of the stakes and is strategically positioning itself to leverage this unexpected yet welcome electoral opening.