Opinion: Holding judges accountable matters for Utah

By Rep. Matt MacPherson

Guest Opinion, Deseret News
Published November 20, 2025

Utah’s Constitution gives the Legislature authority over congressional redistricting, and the state’s system of checks and balances depends on each branch of government remaining within its constitutional role. In this guest opinion, Rep. Matt MacPherson argues that the handling of Utah’s redistricting case by 3rd District Judge Dianna Gibson warrants legislative action and accountability.

MacPherson focuses on the timeline and procedures used in the redistricting case, arguing that the 13-month period between the Utah Supreme Court’s remand of the case and the district court’s next significant action placed the Legislature under unnecessary time pressure. He contends that the subsequent 30-day deadline to produce new congressional maps left limited opportunity for public hearings, analysis and community input.

The article also examines the court’s November 2025 decision to reject the Legislature’s map and require the state to use a map proposed by the plaintiffs. MacPherson argues that the timing of the ruling — issued shortly before a statutory certification deadline — prevented the Legislature from pursuing a meaningful appeal before the deadline.

MacPherson argues that these actions raise broader questions about separation of powers, legislative authority and judicial accountability. He contends that while appeals can address questions about the underlying law, impeachment serves a different purpose by addressing alleged misconduct or abuse of office.

The article emphasizes the importance of preserving public participation and the constitutional roles of each branch of government in decisions affecting Utah’s congressional representation.

“When a judge abuses procedural control to block oversight, the Legislature has a responsibility to act.”

MacPherson concludes by arguing that the Utah House should consider impeachment as a means of protecting the integrity of the state’s elections and the Legislature’s constitutional role in determining congressional districts.

Read the full opinion at Deseret News:
Opinion: Holding judges accountable matters for Utah

Originally published by Deseret News on November 20, 2025. Written by Rep. Matt MacPherson, who represents District 26 in the Utah House of Representatives.