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Platform Each accordion below shows one section of the platform. Expand a section to see the current language (top card) alongside the version proposed for the April 2026 Convention (bottom card).
As a delegate, you will be voting on these platform changes at convention in addition to candidates. Review them carefully and consider how they align with your precinct’s values before April 18 or April 25.

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

We the members of the Utah County Republican Party do hereby affirm our belief and trust in God and that it was through His intervention that this nation was established. The foundation of our platform is the knowledge that all people are created equal and that the role of government should be limited to protecting and preserving the God-given rights of life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness, and the ownership and control of property. And In order to identify our Party and our elected officials with certain shared values and principles, we do hereby present this platform to convention delegates and the public and invite all who share these values and principles to vote for Republican candidates.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

We the members of the Utah County Republican Party do hereby affirm our belief and trust in God and that it was through His intervention that this nation was established. The foundation of our platform is the knowledge that all people are created equal and that the role of government should be limited to protecting and preserving the God-given rights of life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness, and the ownership and control of property. Morality and virtue are the foundation of a republic and necessary for a society to be free. In order to identify our Party and our elected officials with certain shared values and principles, and in order to put these principles into governance, we do hereby present this platform to convention delegates and the public and invite all who share these values and principles to vote for Republican candidates. (Utah Constitution: Preamble; Article I, Sections 1, 2 & 22)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Individual responsibility and accountability are necessary for the government to operate within the limited powers granted by the divinely inspired Constitution of the United States of America and the Constitution of the State of Utah in keeping with the principles established by our Founding Fathers. We believe a society can only remain free when the majority of its members lead spiritually grounded and morally upright lives and are willing to become involved to preserve these values. We support the “Rule of Law” and believe in upholding the law of the land.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Individual responsibility and accountability are necessary for the government to operate within the limited powers granted by the divinely inspired Constitution of the United States of America and the Constitution of the State of Utah in keeping with the principles established by our Founding Fathers. We believe a society can only remain free when the majority of its members lead spiritually grounded and morally upright lives and are willing to participate in civic responsibilities to preserve these values. We support the “Rule of Law” and believe in upholding the law of the land. The overturning of immoral or unconstitutional laws, orders, and opinions should take legislative priority. Jury nullification is a vital check on legislation. (Utah Constitution: Preamble; Article I, Sections 1 & 2; Article VI, Section 28)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

The proper role of government at all levels is to protect each person’s unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness; and each individual’s right to own and control property. Any other rights or privileges should not be construed or applied in any way to infringe on our God-given unalienable rights.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

The proper role of government at all levels is to protect each person’s unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness; and each individual’s right to own and control property. Unalienable rights protected by the Constitution should not be subject to statutes of limitations. Any other rights or privileges should not be construed or applied in any way to infringe on our God-given unalienable rights. We believe that sexual orientation, gender identity or marital status should not receive special legal protections or privileges beyond those afforded to all individuals. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 1 & 22; Article VI, Section 28)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Our system is derived on the premise of separation of authority into three distinct but equal branches. Abduction or usurpation of another branch’s authority is an assault on the foundations of our Republic. Power designated to each branch must stay with that branch and government should never be transferred to corporations. (US Constitution: Articles I, II, & III)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

The states vest in the national government, specific enumerated powers and retain all others to themselves or the people. Therefore, the state has the right and specific duty to protect those rights for the citizens. (US Constitution: Amendment IX and X. Utah Constitution: Article 1, Section 2 & Article 1, Section 8.)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Individuals have an inherent right to expressions and demonstrations of free speech, which are foundational to a free society, and must be protected. With the exception of certain workplace conduct, government-influenced discrimination against individuals or organizations because of their political opinions or statements is a violation of this right. Government must be prohibited from social scoring, compelled speech, restriction of access to services, or tracking of activities based on speech. Government or government actors have no role in determining misinformation and may not evaluate or act upon the content of free speech. (Bill of Rights: 1st Amendment. Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 1 & 15)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Social media platforms function as modern forums for public discourse and–outside of obscene content–should not engage in viewpoint-based censorship or otherwise delegate the limits of the authority to censor. Government must not ban anonymity. Government-mandated presentation of credentials to participate on social media is a violation of privacy. Administrators of privately managed groups on social media have the right to delete, remove, block, or censor. Parents have the right and responsibility to manage their children’s access to social media. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 7, 15 & 23)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

God is our supreme Sovereign, and the sole source of our rights. We must, therefore, be free to worship Him in public and private. Government should not restrict public prayer or other forms of public religious expression.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

God is our supreme Sovereign, and the sole source of our rights. We must, therefore, be free to worship Him in public and private. Government holds no authority to restrict public prayer or other forms of public religious expression. (Bill of Rights: 1st Amendment. Utah Constitution: Article I, Section 4)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

The right of individuals to keep and bear arms must not be infringed.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

The right of individuals to keep and bear arms must not be infringed. The government shall not restrict the use of arms by citizens to protect themselves, others, and property. We do not support the removal, suspension, or control of this right in any way except through due process in a court of law. As a general principle, we do not support public gun-free zones. (Bill of Rights: 2nd Amendment. Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 6 & 7)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Individuals have a fundamental right to privacy and control over their data; which includes purchases, behaviors, personally identifiable information (PII)–including DNA. Our data belongs to us and not to government, agencies, or private entities. Individuals should be secure in their own–and their dependents’–persons, property, and communications. PII collected by government or corporations must be used solely for its intended purpose. The scope and use of data collected by devices or programs must be transparent and subject to the owner’s fully-informed consent. Individuals have rights over their data, including ownership, usage, updates, security, portability, privacy and destruction; as well as, transparency in algorithms and legal protections. Personal data is property and cannot be taken without consent; violations must have legal recourse. (Bill of Rights: 4th Amendment. Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 7 & 22. Utah Code 53G-6-803: Parental rights)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

We affirm privacy as a fundamental right. We acknowledge the necessity of the government to process a limited amount of personal data for essential public services. Regulation of government use of personal data is crucial and should limit types and amounts of data collected, require informed consent, provide for transparency in methods of data collection, processing, disposition and expungement, restrict data usage and sharing; and prohibit selling of personal data. We adamantly oppose unlawful government profiling or surveilling of individuals. The right to use physical identification should be guaranteed. Government processes must permit a non-tech option. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Section 7)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Government surveillance should be restricted. Although security cameras exist to protect property, surveillance violates the right to certain privacy in public. Broad use of public, facial recognition and automated enforcement of laws should be prohibited. Cameras used for electronic ticketing violate the right to face one’s accuser, the right to correction by a first offense or warning, and damage relationships with law enforcement. (Bill of Rights: 4th & 6th Amendments. Utah Constitution: Article 1, Sections 7 & 12)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Parents or legal guardians are and must be recognized as the final authority in deciding what is best for their minor children. Parents or legal guardians must receive full disclosure and give written permission for any interactions with their minor children such as: healthcare services, outside referrals, educational testing, or communications (e.g., race, gender, or sexuality). A minor child’s data must never be collected by or shared with any entity–including government–without a parent’s or legal guardian’s consent. Parents or legal guardians must be given access to audit minor children’s data without limitation. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 1 & 7)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Every individual has the inherent right to life and medical freedom, including: the right to try treatments, accept or refuse medical interventions, and receive full, transparent disclosure of risks and benefits. No person can be forced or coerced into healthcare services, including vaccinations or experimental medical procedures, by government or private entities. Fully informed consent is a fundamental right that shall not be infringed. Utah shall uphold these rights against any federal or external interference. (US Constitution: 9th Amendment. Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 1 & 7)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Every citizen has the inherent right to travel freely without government regulation beyond disability or impairment. Unwarranted tracking of individual movement—regardless of source—must not be utilized by government. Public thoroughfares and their usage are the property of all citizens and equal access to their use shall not be infringed. The government shall not restrict modes of transportation, such as personal vehicles, public transit, or air travel, regardless of age or energy source. Public-private partnerships, or non-governmental organizations do not have the authority to limit travel or modes of transportation through public thoroughfares. Goals—such as zero fatality—are unrealistic and put freedom-prohibiting ideals over needs and quality of life. (Bill of Rights: 10th Amendment. Utah Constitution: Article 1, Sections 1 & 7)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

The right to meet together in communities, of our own making and associations, in any manner for any reason shall not be infringed. (Bill of Rights: 1st Amendment)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Local governments allow for greater community involvement and are most aware of the needs of the people. Federal regulations of state and local governments should be restricted to powers specifically enumerated in the Constitution of the United States.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Local governments allow for greater community involvement and are most aware of the needs of the people. Federal regulations of state and local governments should be restricted to powers specifically enumerated in the Constitution of the United States. We uphold the principle of the lesser magistrates: when unalienable rights are infringed upon, all levels of government are responsible to protect and defend against usurpations and abuses. The jurisdiction of local municipalities includes planning, zoning, business regulation, and infrastructure. (Bill of Rights: 9th Amendment. Utah Constitution: Article I, Section 1; Article VI, Section 28; Article XI, Section 6)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

All government officials are accountable to the people. Any government agency or entity that receives public funds must be open to public audit and review. Elected officials are accountable for all taxpayer money and will not delegate appropriation authority to non-elected or appointed entities.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

All government officials are accountable to the people and must be receptive to petitions of redress. Any government agency or entity that receives public funds must be open to public audit and review. All levels of government should fully and swiftly comply with citizens’ requests for information including GRAMA (Government Records and Access Management Act) and FOIA (Freedom of Information Act). Elected officials are accountable for all taxpayer money and must not delegate appropriation authority to non-elected or appointed entities. (Bill of Rights: 1st Amendment. Utah Constitution: Article I, Section 2, Article VI, Sections 1 & 28; Article XIII)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Elected officials are in violation of their public trust if they are compensated for lobbying while holding public office. Personal advantages achieved through elected positions are an ethical violation and should be avoided while in office and after for at least a two-year cooling off period. Any votes that would financially benefit or provide a quid pro quo to the elected official, their direct family members, or close friends should be avoided by abstention or resignation. (Utah Constitution: Article V, Section 1; Article VI, Sections 9 & 10. Utah Ethics Act: Utah Code Title 67, Section 16)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

It is the responsibility of elected officials to honor their oath of office and to be individually accountable to it. Their power to act on behalf of their constituents has been given with the highest fidelity. Proactive input from constituents should be equal to or greater than that of other stakeholders. The default vote should always be a “No” vote. Only legislation that has been read and understood, with a clear benefit to the citizenry over special interests, may be eligible for a “Yes” vote. It is the responsibility of a legislator to only propose, and vote “Yes” on, single subject—and not single category—bills. Legislators should sponsor and floor sponsor as few bills as necessary and should fully understand those bills. If a vote is cast in error, or an action is made in error, it is the responsibility of the elected official to correct the error and continue efforts to right the wrong until rectified. Elected officials should continue their education in the principles outlined in our founding documents. Accessibility, coordination, and communication with Party leadership is both the responsibility of Party leadership and any elected officials. (Utah Constitution: Article VI, Sections 22, Article VIII, Section 2)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

The Utah County Republican Party is a freely associated private Party. Political Parties have the right to hold their own primaries and determine their own method of electing nominees for the general ballot. The right to regulate and control membership and the use of party labels on ballots resides with the Party and not the individual. Political parties have the right to possess, manage, and control their full member data. Parties can remove members for cause. Per United States Supreme Court rulings, government holds no authority in running the internal functions or processes of a private party. (Bill of Rights: 1st Amendment. Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 1 & 7)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

The Party supports needed legislation to ensure the integrity of the voter registration rolls and to reduce voter fraud.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

The Party supports needed legislation to ensure the integrity of the voter registration rolls and to reduce voter fraud. We believe that in-person voting, with voter identification, clear regulations for chain of custody, and verifiability is necessary and instills the most public confidence. Accommodations for alternate paths or early voting for military, disabled, or religious missions should remain to these select groups with extenuating circumstances. Election jurisdiction should remain closest to the people. Municipal elections must remain under the jurisdiction of the local municipalities. All other elections should remain under the jurisdiction of the elected county clerk. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 1 & 17; Article IV, Sections 3 & 8)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Government at all levels should be required to live within a balanced budget. Increases in government spending should not exceed inflation and population growth.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Government at all levels should be required to live within a balanced budget. Increases in government spending should not exceed inflation and population growth. The legislative auditor and state and county auditors should have the authority to audit any entity that uses or defers tax dollars. Services and scope of government should be limited to provide only for basic public needs. Dependence on federal dollars must be avoided. (Utah Constitution: Article VI, Section 33; Article XIII, Section 5)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Ours is a sovereign nation governed solely by the Constitution of the United States of America. Our government shall not relinquish its authority to other entities, foreign or world powers.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Ours is a sovereign nation governed solely by the Constitution of the United States of America. Our government shall not relinquish its authority to other entities, foreign or world powers. The State of Utah does not have the authority to negotiate directly with foreign countries or global entities. Powers not given to the federal government are reserved to the State of Utah or its citizens. The State of Utah should reject non-governmental organization (NGO) programs that are contrary to the U.S. and Utah State Constitutions. (U.S. Constitution: Article I, Sections 8 & 10; Article II, Section 2, Clause 2; Article VI, Clause 2. Bill of Rights: 9th & 10th Amendments. Utah Constitution: Article I, Section 3)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

We affirm the principles of peace through strength and call for the rebuilding of our armed services to defend our nation. The United States of America should only be involved in armed conflicts when there is a clear and present threat to our safety or vital national interest. It is the right of the United States Congress alone to declare war.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

We affirm the principles of peace through strength and call for the ongoing development of our armed services to defend our nation. The United States of America should only be involved in armed conflicts when there is a clear and present threat to our safety or vital national interest. It is the right of the United States Congress alone to declare war. It is the right of every citizen to refuse conscription and to be a conscientious objector for any moral or religious reason. (U.S. Constitution: Preamble; Article I, Section 8, Clauses 11, 12, & 13. Bill of Rights: 1st & 2nd Amendments; Utah Constitution: Article 1, Section 4)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

The United States of America is a Compound Constitutional Republic based on the rule of law, representatives elected by sovereign citizens to exercise authority on their behalf, and a system of internal and external checks and balances.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

The United States of America is a Compound Constitutional Republic based on the rule of law, representatives elected by sovereign citizens to exercise authority on their behalf, and a system of internal and external checks and balances. The Utah caucus system is in alignment with representative government and guards against the dangers inherent in direct democracies. Political parties have the right to select their nominees through their own processes. We oppose any efforts to subvert these rights. (Bill of Rights: 1st Amendment. Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 1 & 2; Article VI, Section 1)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Public service is a sacred trust, and those who hold office—whether elected or appointed—must be held accountable to the people they serve. Party leaders have a solemn duty to enforce high standards of conduct at every level. Party members share responsibility by promptly raising concerns, challenging improper conduct, and speaking out against misconduct. When they fail to hold officials accountable for abuses or corruption, they share responsibility. Party leaders themselves must answer for their actions, uphold the Constitution, and ensure government operates efficiently, ethically, and faithfully in service to its citizens. (US Constitution: Article II, Section 4; Article VI; 1st, 4th-10th Amendment; Utah Constitution: Article 1, Section 1, 2 & 22; Article VI; Declaration of Independence as a moral framing)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

A well-educated and informed citizenry is essential to the long-term well-being of a free society. The primary responsibility for education rests with the student and the family. Parents have the right to choose whether a child is educated in private, public, or home schools, and government should not infringe on that right. To promote excellence, consumer choice in education should be encouraged. Schools or other government entities should not invade the privacy of parents or their children. We favor local accountability and control in all aspects of the public education system.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

A well-educated and informed citizenry is essential to the long-term well-being of a free society. The primary responsibility for education rests with the student and the family. Parents have the right to choose whether a child is educated in private, public, or home schools, and government must not infringe on that right. To promote excellence, consumer choice in education should be encouraged. Schools or other government entities should not invade the privacy of parents or their children. Public education’s sole imperative is to educate; social and welfare functions are not the responsibility of the education system. We favor local accountability and control in all aspects of the public education system. Public schools must abstain from teaching promiscuity, favoring any group over another, or providing or facilitating pornography in any form. Teaching any ideology that is subversive or destructive to our Constitutional Republic must be ended immediately. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Section 3; Article X, Sections 1,2,3 & 8. Utah Code 53G-6-803: Parental Rights)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Funding for Utah’s public higher education institutions should be based on the number of students currently attending that college or university and the type of degrees offered, and not on past history.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Institutions of Higher Education should be self-funded. Institutions that currently receive public funding should provide degrees of value that enrich the community, teach Constitutional principles, and maintain political neutrality. They should not provide ongoing credentialing, engage in social engineering such as DEI and critical theory, and should not be used as a front for other government programs. (Utah Constitution: Article X, Sections 1,2,3 & 4)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

The proper role of government in economic development is to create an environment in which innovation, investment and risk-taking can thrive. In order to create such an environment, we believe the following principles:

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

The proper role of government in the economy is to promote free enterprise, and enforce a level playing field. Risk and innovation are for the private sector. In order to create such an environment, we believe the following principles: (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 2 & 24; Article VI, Section 28; Article XII, Section 20)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Utah’s economic growth should be sustained through the principles of free enterprise. We encourage the privatization of public services where appropriate.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Utah’s economic growth should be sustained through the principles of free enterprise. Government exists to serve the people as a whole, not a privileged few. Its role in industry is to create fair, open, and competitive conditions in which anyone can succeed through effort, innovation, and integrity. Government is not a business, nor should it shape tax policy, regulation, or public spending to favor wealthy individuals or entrenched interests. Any business that receives public funds, subsidies, contracts, or special incentives must be subject to full transparency, public oversight, and accountability. Public resources demand public trust. Government should not extend special interest rates to select corporations. Government must never create monopolies, contracts without expiration, protected markets, or preferential arrangements that prevent others from competing or participating. Long term beneficial relationships between government and private corporations (public-private partnerships) subvert the protections inherent in both. A healthy economy depends on equal opportunity and fair rules where success is earned—not granted through political influence. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 2, 7 & 23; Article VI, Section 28; Article XII, Section 20)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

We oppose excessive and restrictive government regulation. Regulation should be minimized, or eliminated, unless a convincing case can be made that the collective good is clearly improved by such regulation. Regular review of regulatory goals is necessary to insure their effectiveness.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

We oppose excessive and restrictive government regulation. Regulation should be minimized, or eliminated, unless a convincing case can be made that the collective good is clearly improved by such regulation. Ongoing review of regulatory goals is necessary to ensure effectiveness. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 1 & 24)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

The fruit of an individual’s labor should not be perpetually diminished by layered taxation. Taxation should be as fair, equitable, simple, and minimal as possible. Limited government dictates that taxpayers should keep the overwhelming majority of their money instead of giving it to the government. Utah’s system of taxation has improved and government should continue to refine and improve it. Appropriate tax policy is essential if Utah is to compete globally.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

The fruit of an individual’s labor should not be perpetually diminished by layered taxation. Taxation should be as fair, equitable, simple, and minimal as possible. Limited government dictates that taxpayers should keep the overwhelming majority of their money instead of relinquishing it to the government. Taxation should avoid targeting specific industries or activities for special treatment. Personal property and estate taxes are incompatible with the American Dream and should be eliminated. Individuals should be able to own, and/or pass to their heirs, their property without the threat of tax debt confiscation. Property liens should be prohibited for unrelated debt, including medical debt. We oppose tax structures that compound the government’s claim on the same earned income through multiple mechanisms. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 1,2,7 & 22; Article XIII, Sections 2 & 3)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

The government should not steal—seized assets should be kept only when directly tied to a criminal conviction. Otherwise the assets must be returned with interest.

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Funding shall be formula-based to provide an adequate source of funding to develop and maintain Utah County’s infrastructure. Decisions need to be made now on how to build the necessary infrastructure to handle growth, or future economic development could be lost, and our quality of life rapidly diminished.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

The ownership and accessibility of infrastructure must belong to the public and be under the authority and control of elected officials. Private management arrangements must not grant corporations control over access to essential public resources. Future plans should be conservative, transparent, and responsible. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Section 2; Article VI, Section 28; Article XI, Section 5)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Local municipalities should have primary jurisdiction over planning and zoning—not federal, state, or county governments. A fair and open market should determine pricing. Government-driven mandates, such as density, energy efficiency, and sustainability, undermine consumer preferences, oversimplify complicated market variables, restrict individual and municipal freedom, and perpetuate housing issues. Large corporations and foreign entities should have limits on housing ownership. (Utah State Constitution: Article I, Sections 1 & 22)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

All rights are endowed by God to the individual. While we support the traditional legal protections granted to corporations, we do not believe in nor support the concept of corporate personhood. The inherent flaw of corporate personhood is that individuals and corporations have the same legal rights and privileges. This flaw can allow individuals to multiply their representation unfairly through investments and allows non-citizens to gain access to our system. Corporations are not people and should not be entitled to the same rights and privileges. (Declaration of Independence. Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 1 & 2)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Consumers have the right to repair and modify their own property without facing legal penalties or having manufacturers deliberately disable or impair the product’s functionality. Physical money is legal tender and must be accepted. Process patents, including software, stifle inventors and must be prohibited. (Utah Constitution: Article XII, Section 20)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

The government should never seize private property unless it is absolutely necessary for a critical public need and only after every reasonable alternative has been exhausted. Eminent domain is an involuntary and deeply disruptive action that upends lives. When property is taken, compensation must be generous—reflecting high-market value plus substantial additional payments for inconvenience, emotional hardship, relocation costs, and all related legal expenses. (Bill of Rights: 4th & 5th Amendments. Utah Constitution: Article 1, Sections 7, 14 & 22)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Individuals have the right to plant, grow, raise, and maintain food production on their private property—as long as it doesn’t unreasonably interfere with their neighbors. Seeds legally bought that naturally cross-pollinate are not a violation of patents. Individuals have a right to know the ingredients in and origin of their food: labeling and public information should include all ingredients. Food and water should be as natural as possible. (Utah Constitution: Preamble; Article 1, Section 1; Article XVII, Section 1)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

There must be a balance between the economic benefits of growth and the need for clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment. We are stewards of the earth, and we should leave our posterity an earth in better condition than we started with. Market forces should be considered when managing environmental issues.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Energy and environmental policy must consider both the economic benefits of growth and responsible environmental stewardship. Market forces and quality of life should be considered when managing environmental issues. As energy consumption rises, maintaining affordable energy for Utah residents and localized businesses must be prioritized over the needs of outside business interests and the allocation of resources for out-of-state consumption. Societal participation based on individual environmental impacts must be prohibited. We believe in informed and dispassionate discussions on the scientific processes including empirical, measurable, and objective facts that influence complex public policy. We support policies that establish, promote and maintain Utah’s leadership in energy production and exports. We do not support energy policies based on political trends and propagandized environmental language, such as sustainable or renewable, for corporate advantages or global agendas. Carbon is a fundamental and necessary element of existence. The measuring, reporting, tracking and commoditization of carbon usage must be prohibited. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 1 & 7; Article VI, Section 28)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

State and local governments are granted the responsibility of protecting land, water, and other natural resources for the betterment of the citizenry. This responsibility includes protection from global, federal or conservation acquisitions or partnerships in perpetuity. (Utah Constitution: Article XVII, Section 1; Article XVIII, Section 1; Article XX, Section 1)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Law enforcement agencies and the judiciary should strictly uphold the law in the exercise of their duties and work with citizens to maintain free and safe communities.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

All branches of government must strictly uphold the law in the exercise of their duties and work with citizens to maintain free and safe communities. The federal and state constitutions supersede all laws, and it is the responsibility of these agencies to fully know and understand these documents. Administered Constitution exams for law enforcement, appointed judges, and federal, state, and local legislators should be required. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 2, & 26; Article 4, Section 10)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

The primary defense against crime is a stable and responsible family life that emphasizes personal accountability and respect for the law. Swift and certain punishments with just and appropriate penalties are essential deterrents to crime. We support reducing recidivism by actively engaging families, friends, and communities to support reintegration.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

The primary defense against crime is a stable and responsible family life that emphasizes personal accountability and respect for the law. Swift and certain punishments with just and appropriate penalties are essential deterrents to crime. We support reducing recidivism by actively engaging families, friends, and communities to support reintegration. For first time nonviolent offenders, alternatives to incarceration provide cost-effective solutions that uphold personal responsibility using limited government intervention. Politically-motivated prosecution or punishment due to any perceived political nature of a crime should never occur. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 1, 7, 8 & 12)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Victims’ rights are always superior to criminals’ rights. Victims’ rights of restitution should be required of criminals.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Victims’ rights are always superior to convicted criminals’ rights. Victims’ rights of restitution should be required of criminals. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 7 & 12)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Each individual is entitled to a trial by jury in both criminal and civil cases. It is the duty of juries to rule on the law as well as the facts of a case. We call upon the judiciary to reestablish this process and to inform juries of this duty. State senators must hold thorough hearings for all judicial nominees, and members of the Judiciary should undergo regular reviews. The results of such reviews should be a matter of public record. We support the appointment of judges who respect traditional family values and the sanctity of human life. Judges should not make statute but apply it.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Each individual is entitled to a trial by jury in both criminal and civil cases. It is the duty of juries to rule on the law as well as the facts of a case. We call upon the judiciary to reestablish this process and to inform juries of this duty. State senators must hold thorough hearings for all judicial nominees, and members of the Judiciary should undergo regular reviews. The results of such reviews should be a matter of public record. We support the appointment of judges who respect traditional family values and the sanctity of human life. Judges should not make statute but apply it. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 10 & 12)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

This is a new plank in the proposed 2026 platform — no equivalent exists in the current platform.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Legislation from the bench in the form of precedent can re-establish both good and bad rulings; therefore, precedent must not be the basis for law or used to deny the rights of citizens. Referencing previous rulings can be used as a tool in legal evaluation. (Bill of Rights: 6th Amendment. Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 7 & 12)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Juveniles who are charged with a serious violent crime should be tried as adults, acknowledging that in some instances the judicial system must use discretion when dealing with young offenders. We support adult punishment for the conviction of adult crimes. We call for swift, just, and appropriate punishment for adults who aid in the commission of crimes by juveniles.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Juveniles who are charged with serious, violent, or heinous crimes should be tried as adults, acknowledging that in some instances the judicial system must use discretion when dealing with young offenders. The justice system must first protect the community at large. We value the rehabilitation of juvenile offenders when possible. We call for swift, just, and appropriate punishment for adults who aid in the commission of crimes by juveniles. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 7 & 9)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

We support an immigration system that is legal, safe, orderly and humane, and protects our national security. We support the Constitutional mandate for the federal government to protect and secure our national borders from illegal immigration and to enforce current immigration laws. We oppose the use of taxpayer funds to provide benefits for illegal immigrants. We welcome immigrants who enter America through legal avenues. America is a stronger and better nation because of the immigrants’ hard work, and entrepreneurial spirit, of immigrants.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

We support an immigration system that is legal, safe, orderly and humane, and protects our national security. We support the Constitutional mandate for the federal government to protect and secure our national borders from illegal immigration and to enforce current immigration laws. We oppose the use of taxpayer funds to provide benefits for illegal immigrants. All immigration should be for the benefit and well-being of the citizenry. We welcome immigrants who enter America through legal avenues. America is a stronger and better nation because of the immigrants’ hard work, and entrepreneurial spirit, pursuit of the American Dream, and support of our Constitutional Republic. Communities should encourage policies of assimilation. (U.S. Constitution: Article IV, Section 4. Utah Constitution: Article I, Section 3)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid have become entitlements far beyond the minimal safety net they were intended to be.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid are far beyond the minimal safety net they were intended to be. “Entitlement” programs such as Medicaid and Social Security Disability (SSD) are separate and distinct from Social Security and Medicare. Earned benefit programs are funded through their contributors and should be repaid to their beneficiaries. Medicaid and Social Security Disability are entitlement programs and are separate from earned benefits. Means testing to deny earned benefits is theft. We call for urgent and significant reform which returns to the principles of free-market choice and financial self-reliance.

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

We believe that marriage consists only of the legal union between a man and a woman and that no other domestic union should be recognized as a marriage or given the same or substantially equal legal effect. Parents have the right to bear children (or otherwise add children to their families), to determine their own family size, and to determine what is in their best interest without interference from government. We encourage all efforts to strengthen the moral character of our children and oppose policies, practices, and public expressions that degrade humanity and the sanctity of family relationships. We oppose efforts to include sexual orientation as a protected class.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

We believe that marriage consists only of the legal union between a man and a woman and that no other domestic union should be recognized as a marriage or given the same or substantially equal legal effect. Parents have the right to bear children (or otherwise add children to their families), to determine their own family size, and to determine what is in their best interest without interference from government. We encourage all efforts to strengthen the moral character of our children and oppose policies, practices, and public expressions that degrade humanity and the sanctity of family relationships. We oppose efforts to include sexual orientation as a protected class. The family is the fundamental unit of a healthy society. Although exceptions occur, circumstances differ, and outcomes vary, traditional roles are the societal ideal in the rearing of children. (U.S. Constitution: Preamble. Utah Constitution: Article I, Section 1; Article I, Section 29)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

We affirm the fundamental, unalienable right to life for both the born and the unborn. We oppose using public funds for abortion or to support any organizations that promote abortion. Abortion should be illegal except where the life of the mother is at serious risk, or the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest. All people should be protected from abuse and exploitation.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

We affirm the fundamental, unalienable right to life for both the born and the unborn. We oppose using public funds for abortion or to support any organizations that promote abortion. Abortion should be illegal except where the life of the mother is at serious risk, the fetus will not be viable at birth, or the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest. All people should be protected from abuse and exploitation. We are committed to empowering mothers through compassionate support, access to resources, and alternatives to abortion. We strongly support adoption as a life-affirming option and advocate for policies that protect the vulnerable and uphold the dignity of every human life. Government should never serve as a barrier to adoption. Furthermore, respecting life at all stages also means opposition to the legalization and practice of assisted-suicide. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Sections 1, 4, & 9)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Individuals have the primary responsibility for their own welfare. Family, church, and private organizations should provide secondary support when needed. The focus of assistance programs should be the development of self-reliance.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Individuals have the primary responsibility for their own welfare. Family, church, and private organizations should provide secondary support when needed. The focus of assistance programs should be the development of self-reliance. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Section 1)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

We oppose all efforts to legalize gambling in any form.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

We oppose all efforts to legalize formal gambling. (Utah Constitution: Article I, Section 27)

Current Platform — as adopted April 2011

Pornography is destructive to the individual, family, and the community. We support the vigorous prosecution of those who create, distribute, or promote pornographic materials, especially in connection with children. Local communities have the right to establish moral and ethical standards.

Proposed for April 2026 Convention

Pornography is destructive to the individual, family, and the community. We support the vigorous prosecution of those who create, distribute, or promote pornographic materials, especially in connection with children. Local communities have the right to establish moral and ethical standards. (U.S. Constitution: Preamble)
Cross-reference these platform planks with the Candidate Vetting Questions tool, which links each question to the relevant platform sections.