Proposal to Amend Utah Constitution - Electoral Votes
Summary
H.J.R. 5 proposes a constitutional amendment to the Utah Constitution concerning how presidential electors cast their votes. The amendment would prohibit requiring or compelling an elector for President and Vice President to vote for any particular candidate based on the results of the vote in other states or nationwide. In practical terms, it is aimed at preventing Utah’s electors from being bound by interstate vote totals or similar multi-state voting outcomes when selecting presidential electors.
Because this is a joint resolution, it does not itself change statutory law; instead, it sends a proposed constitutional amendment to Utah voters for approval at the next regular general election. If approved by voters, the amendment would be added as Article XXII, Section 6 of the Utah Constitution and would take effect on January 1, 2027. The resolution also directs the lieutenant governor to place the measure on the ballot in the manner required by law.
Impact
The bill would amend the Utah Constitution by adding a new provision governing presidential electors, limiting any requirement or compulsion tied to voting results in other states or nationwide. Its effect would be on the rules for appointing and directing electors for President and Vice President, rather than on ordinary state statutes. If adopted by voters, it would constrain any future state law or policy that attempted to bind electors based on interstate vote totals, and it would become part of Utah’s constitutional framework beginning January 1, 2027.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and the absence of committee transcripts or recorded votes, there is no documented debate or formal vote history to indicate divided sentiment. The resolution’s framing suggests support for elector independence and a preference for Utah to avoid being tied to national or out-of-state voting outcomes. Overall, the available record is neutral and procedural, with no evidence in the provided materials of organized opposition or amendment.
Contention
The main point of contention, based on the substance of the proposal, is whether Utah should prohibit any requirement that electors follow nationwide or other-states’ vote results when casting presidential electoral votes. Supporters would likely view the measure as protecting state autonomy and elector discretion, while critics might argue it could conflict with efforts to coordinate presidential electors through broader interstate voting arrangements or reduce the influence of popular vote outcomes. No specific individuals or groups are identified in the provided materials as taking either position.