State House District 71 in Utah State House District 71, Utah

2026 Primary Election

• Thomas Loveheart — Social worker in UT

  Thomas Loveheart is a Democratic candidate for the Utah House of Representatives, seeking to represent District 71 in the 2026 general election. He is challenging incumbent Rex Shipp. Loveheart advanced from the Democratic convention held on March 17, 2026, and later advanced from the canceled Democratic primary without appearing on the ballot. He holds a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, which he earned in 2020, and previously graduated from South Hills High School. His professional background includes experience as a social worker.

• Rex P Shipp — Incumbent Utah House of Representatives, District 71 in UT

  Rex P. Shipp is an incumbent Republican member of the Utah House of Representatives, representing District 71. He assumed office in January 2023, with his current term ending in January 2027, having previously served District 72. Shipp is seeking re-election for District 71 in 2026, advancing from the Republican convention. His platform centers on a free market, empowering entrepreneurs, and fiscal responsibility. He champions limiting government overreach, ensuring local decision-making, and maximizing tax dollars. As a legislator, he has sponsored various bills on topics ranging from animal depredation to natural resources and child welfare. He is set to face Thomas Loveheart in the November 2026 general election.