Imagine a group of everyday people, driven by their deepest beliefs, stepping up to challenge the very way their state draws its political maps—maps that could decide who represents millions in Congress. It's a story of faith meeting democracy, and it's unfolding right now in Utah. But here's where it gets controversial: what if this push for fairness is seen as meddling by those in power? Stick around, because this tale reveals how one lawsuit is shaking up redistricting nationwide.
Emma Petty Addams, a skilled pianist and instructor who's put her musical passions on hold, finds herself at the heart of this drama. 'That's really me at my core,' she shared with a chuckle during our chat. 'But for now, something bigger is calling—our democratic republic needs attention.' As co-executive director of Mormon Women for Ethical Government (MWEG), Addams is leading a charge that's forcing Utah's lawmakers to redraw the lines for the state's four congressional districts.
We sat down in her cozy suburban home in Salt Lake City, where she was joined by Vicki Reid, another MWEG member and a key plaintiff in the lawsuit. Reid, a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, views this fight as an extension of her faith. 'One hymn that always resonates is "Do what is right, let the consequences follow,"' she explained, pointing to the sheet music resting on Addams' piano. And those consequences? They're unfolding this very week in the Utah Legislature, with potential ripples across the entire country.
This redistricting effort is happening against the backdrop of a heated national battle sparked by President Trump. He's urging Republican-led states to redraw their maps to bolster their party's grip on Congress. Trump has blasted the court's decision, claiming Utah residents should be 'furious with their activist judges.' Yet, Utah's Republican lawmakers are complying, albeit reluctantly. State Rep. Candice Pierucci voiced her frustration in an interview, arguing that legislators better reflect the state's will than plaintiffs tied to 'their own donor networks and memberships.' 'They don't answer to Utah voters,' she insisted.
Normally, states tweak their district boundaries every decade after the census. But Trump has already prompted changes in places like Texas and Missouri to favor Republicans, and more states might join in. And this is the part most people miss: MWEG's involvement predates this political storm.
Laura Eyi, Vicki Reid, and Emma Petty Addams of Mormon Women for Ethical Government gathered in Addams' home. (Photo: Saige Miller/NPR)
MWEG has been advocating for fair redistricting for years. Founded in 2017 in response to what they call 'dehumanizing actions' in politics, the group boasts around 9,000 members nationwide, mostly from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Addams notes that about 40% identify as Republicans—like herself—while 34% are Democrats, with the rest independents or from third parties. Public relations manager Laura Eyi highlights how their shared faith fosters unity despite differences. 'When church members engage in community and political issues, they do so respecting everyone's dignity, even those they disagree with,' she said. 'It stems from our beliefs.'
Their focus on strengthening democracy led them to redistricting. 'In states like Texas, it's often a partisan clash between Democrats and Republicans,' Addams clarified. 'But in Utah, we're uniting across parties for a principled approach to create the best representative government possible.'
Back in 2018, Utah voters approved an independent commission to handle redistricting, aiming to curb partisan gerrymandering—that's when districts are drawn oddly to favor one party, like twisting a map to pack opponents into fewer seats or spread them out thinly. For beginners, think of it as rigging the game board to make sure your team wins more spots. However, Utah's Republican-dominated Legislature reclaimed control, effectively ignoring the voter initiative. They crafted a map that fractured Salt Lake County, the state's most Democratic stronghold, across four other districts.
In 2022, MWEG, the League of Women Voters, and individual plaintiffs filed a lawsuit. A Utah district court judge ruled the Legislature exceeded its authority, mandating the current redistricting. The new map, approved by the legislature on Monday, boosts Democrats' odds of securing a House seat in this staunchly Republican state for the 2024 elections. It still awaits judicial review.
Vicki Reid, who describes herself as a moderate Republican, partnered with her Democratic husband in the suit. 'Utah is a red state, sure, but over half the voters supported fair maps,' she pointed out. 'Lawmakers have a duty to heed the people, and that wasn't occurring.' Republicans counter that the state constitution assigns map-drawing solely to the legislature. 'Period,' Pierucci emphasized to NPR, vowing appeals if necessary.
For the moment, the legislature's map heads back to the judge for scrutiny, with MWEG and others able to provide input. Addams argues it still falls short of the non-partisan standards voters demanded. 'MWEG stands with thousands of Utahns who voiced opposition to the legislature's partisan gerrymandered map, which breaches those standards,' she stated in a press release.
Now, here's the controversial twist: Is this a noble stand for fairness, or an overreach by activists? Some might argue that faith-based groups like MWEG are injecting religion into politics, potentially biasing outcomes. Others see it as a vital check on power. What do you think—should courts override legislatures on redistricting, or does that undermine democratic processes? Do you agree that Trump's push for redistricting is a fair strategy, or does it smack of manipulation? Share your thoughts in the comments; I'd love to hear if you side with the plaintiffs, the lawmakers, or somewhere in between!
