Two candidates have already declared victory in the Salt Lake City Council races following early election results on November 4, 2025. In District 5, Erika Carlsen, a political newcomer and Ballpark Community Council chair, led with 66% of the vote against opponents Amy Hawkins and Vance Hansen.

Carlsen expressed deep gratitude to voters for trusting her to represent the diverse neighborhoods in her district, which includes Ballpark, Central Ninth, Liberty Wells, and East Liberty Park. Her campaign highlighted key community concerns such as the rising cost of living, traffic, preservation of green spaces, and small business support.

In District 3, incumbent council chair Chris Wharton won a tight five-way race with approximately 51% of the vote after ranked-choice tabulation. Wharton emphasized his commitment to ongoing local priorities including housing affordability, public safety, and air quality improvements. Wharton’s experience and dedication as a sixth-generation Salt Lake City resident underscore his connection to the city’s future. His closest challenger, Blake McClary, acknowledged the challenge of running against a well-funded incumbent but noted pride in a grassroots campaign focusing on affordability and family-friendly policies.

The District 1 race remains competitive, with incumbent Victoria Petro holding a slim lead over challenger Stephen Otterstrom in early returns, with 53% to 47%. Petro, a business consultant and community advocate, has received added support from withdrawn candidate Yussuf Abdi. District 1 covers neighborhoods including Rose Park, Westpointe, and Fairpark, areas where affordable housing and homelessness are major campaign issues.

District 7 incumbent Sarah Young ran unopposed and will retain her seat.

As the races conclude, key issues across the council contests are housing affordability, homelessness, community development projects such as the Power District redevelopment, and ensuring public safety. Voters across Salt Lake City looked to elect representatives who resonate with their concerns and advocate effectively at City Hall.

For continued updates on Salt Lake City election results and related news, visit the official Salt Lake County election results page.