Utah is undermining popular sovereignty through ballot initiative restrictions

By: Richard W. Vengels III

Outlets: Utah News Dispatch

Published: January 29, 2026

Words: 691

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 2 days ago

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The first three words of the United States Constitution are not symbolic. “We the people” is a statement of authority. Government power does not originate with legislatures, courts, or executives. It originates with the people themselves. That principle, known as popular sovereignty, is the foundation of American constitutional government.

Yet in Utah today, that foundation is being quietly weakened.

Three bills currently advancing through the Utah Legislature, HB160, HB167, and HB242, collectively …

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