Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
Richard Piatt Reporting Political candidates in Utah are breaking a sweat this week. Several current office holders are in a fight for their political lives. That fight takes place tomorrow, primary election day.
The race that has become a symbol for 'incumbents in trouble' is in Utah's Third Congressional District. In that race, Republican Chris Cannon is genuinely concerned fellow Republican John Jacob might end his political career tomorrow.
It's been eight years since Cannon faced a serious challenge like this. Now he's shaking hands with as many people as he can. He's going to as many public events as he can. He's trying to get his supporters to vote tomorrow, and remember what he's done over the last 10 years.
Rep. Chris Cannon, (R) Utah: "In a world where lots of things are happening, I hope people realize these other things are also important, will turn out and vote for me."
Today, challenger John Jacob says he feels confident, but he is also battling an election-day enemy: apathy. Turnout in Primaries is historically low. He's hoping the energy he's infused in the race--taking a hard line on immigration--will translate into votes.
John Jacob, (R) Candidate for Congress: "It's more than immigration, but this is ground zero here. And that's the message that will be sent back to Washington."
Republicans are also in tight races for some Legislative seats. In the Utah State Senate there is an inter-party fight for Al Mansell's seat. Bryson Garbett and Wayne Niederhauser are in a race that's too close to call right now. Ogden Senator Dave Thomas is also facing a serious challenge from Jon Griener.
In the State House, Jim Ferrin has a fight on his hands with Stephen Sandstrom. Sheryl Allen is in a close race with challenger Mark Jacobs in her Bountiful district. Peggy Wallace is also at risk, facing an aggressive campaign from challenger Jim Bird.
And Democrats have their own interparty fight: Christine Johnson and Josh Ewing are duking it out in the liberal 25th House District.
It all adds up to a primary worth watching.
