Maloy and Udell Debate Key Issues for Utah’s 3rd Congressional District at Utah Tech University

Salt Lake City, UT, October 2, 2026 —

Republican Representative Celeste Maloy and Democratic challenger Kent Udell engaged in a debate at Utah Tech University in St. George, outlining their distinct visions for Utah’s newly drawn 3rd Congressional District. The discussion centered on a range of critical issues facing the region.

The candidates addressed several key policy areas, including water access, a vital concern for the arid state. They also tackled the pressing issue of housing affordability, which affects many residents across the district. Public lands management, economic development strategies, and energy policy were further topics of debate, with Maloy and Udell presenting differing philosophies on how to best govern the diverse constituency.

The event provided voters with an opportunity to hear firsthand how the two candidates propose to approach the challenges and opportunities within the 3rd Congressional District. Their differing perspectives on these significant issues highlight the choices voters will face in the upcoming election.

Both Maloy and Udell are seeking to represent a district that encompasses a variety of landscapes and economic bases, from urban centers to rural communities. Their proposals on issues like water, housing, public lands, economic growth, and energy reflect contrasting party platforms and individual policy priorities. The debate served as a platform for them to articulate these differences and to connect with voters in St. George.

Further details on the specific proposals or the candidates’ backgrounds were not elaborated upon in the summary of the event. The debate focused on the presentation of their platforms and their differing approaches to governing.

Story summarized from the original created by Frizz Flake on www.deseret.com, see more information here.

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