SALT LAKE CITY – In a major political shift, Utah Senator Dan Thatcher has officially left the Republican Party, announcing his decision to join Utah Forward on the final day of the 2025 Legislative Session.
Thatcher, who has represented District 11 since 2011, covering Tooele County and parts of West Valley, was last elected unopposed in 2022. His current term runs until 2026, when he will be up for re-election.
Thatcher’s Frustrations with the Utah Legislature
During a press conference, Thatcher expressed his concerns over what he described as a growing disconnect between lawmakers and the public. He argued that the legislative system in Utah allows only a small group of people to determine who holds office, limiting broader voter influence.
“You’re not crazy. You’re not imagining it,” Thatcher said. “The legislature isn’t listening to you. We don’t have to, because you’re not the ones electing us.”
His dissatisfaction was highlighted earlier in the 2025 session, when he delivered an impassioned speech against a controversial public union bill. He noted that many of his constituents have reached out, feeling that their voices are ignored.
With this move, Thatcher becomes the only third-party member currently serving in the Utah Senate or House of Representatives.
What is the Utah Forward Party?
The Utah Forward Party is the state branch of the national Forward Party, a political movement launched by former presidential candidate Andrew Yang. The Utah chapter was founded in 2023 and fielded its first candidates in 2024.
The party promotes a pragmatic, non-partisan approach to governance, emphasizing problem-solving over division.
According to its platform, Utah Forward is focused on:
✅ Environmental sustainability, including preserving the Great Salt Lake
✅ Expanding affordable housing and addressing homelessness
✅ Rejecting political extremes in favor of common-sense solutions
“We’re not here to replicate the dysfunction of existing parties,” the Utah Forward website states. “Our goal is to push American politics forward with innovative, collaborative, and inclusive leadership.”
The party welcomes diverse perspectives and emphasizes tolerance and constructive dialogue in working with political colleagues.
Thatcher’s decision to join Utah Forward signals a shift in Utah’s political landscape, raising questions about how independent and third-party candidates will shape future elections .
