Salt Lake City Holds Primary Election

Outside groups fund majority of ads for Democratic and Republican candidates

Apr. 19, 2026 at 3:04am

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A photorealistic painting of an empty ballot box sitting on a downtown sidewalk, with warm sunlight and deep shadows creating a sense of isolation and contemplation.The quiet, solitary ballot box stands as a symbol of the local democratic process, even as outside money floods the airwaves.Salt Lake City Today

Salt Lake City residents headed to the polls today for the city's primary election. According to data from AdImpact, around 70% of the funding for advertisements supporting the Democratic and Republican candidates has come from outside groups rather than the campaigns themselves.

Why it matters

The high level of outside spending in the Salt Lake City primary election raises concerns about the influence of special interests and wealthy donors on the political process. Voters may be concerned that candidates are beholden to these outside groups rather than the local community.

The details

The primary election in Salt Lake City features a number of key races, including contests for mayor, city council, and other local offices. AdImpact, a firm that tracks political advertising, reported that a significant majority of the funding for ads supporting the various candidates has come from outside groups rather than the campaigns themselves.

  • The Salt Lake City primary election took place today, April 19, 2026.

The players

AdImpact

A firm that tracks political advertising and spending data.

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What’s next

Voters will return to the polls for the general election on June 14, 2026. The winners of the primary will advance to face off in the general election.

The takeaway

The high level of outside spending in the Salt Lake City primary election highlights the growing influence of special interests and wealthy donors in local politics. Voters will need to carefully evaluate the candidates and their funding sources to ensure their elected officials are truly representing the interests of the community.