Democratic candidates spar in 1st Congressional District primary debate
Democratic candidates in Utah's 1st Congressional District primary debate expressed uniform opposition to a controversial data center in Box Elder County. The data center was one of several key issues the candidates discussed during their debate in Salt Lake City.
During a primary debate for Utah's newly-created First Congressional District, Democratic candidates Liban Mohamed, Ben McAdams, Nate Blouin, and Michael Farrell all expressed opposition to the controversial Box Elder County data center. The candidates, who met in Salt Lake City, also agreed on saving the Great Salt Lake and opposing an ICE detention center. While largely in agreement on these issues, they sparred over campaign finances and legislative records, with Mohamed accusing McAdams of corporate ties and Blouin of being "performative." Blouin, a state legislator, faced criticism for not passing a bill, while Mohamed was targeted for his lobbying work for tech companies. The debate highlighted differing approaches within the Democratic party as candidates vie for the Salt Lake County-centric seat.