The Senate Government Operations and Political Subdivisions Committee convened on January 29, 2025, to discuss various legislative matters, with a significant focus on the implications of ranked choice voting. The meeting began with a motion to move the agenda, which was promptly addressed.

Senator Thatcher initiated a discussion on the controversial ranked choice voting bill, expressing strong opinions about its potential impact. He stated that the bill could either "save the universe or destroy it," emphasizing the polarized views surrounding the legislation. He noted that while some proponents claimed the bill would solve issues related to plurality, the data he reviewed suggested the opposite, indicating that plurality could worsen significantly under the proposed system.

Thatcher acknowledged the importance of considering the perspectives of individuals with disabilities, which had not been a focal point in previous discussions. He expressed concern about the influence of money and lobbyists on local governments, questioning the balance of power in decision-making processes. He highlighted the need for transparency in voting, stressing that voters should be aware of whether their ballots were counted. He argued that despite the popularity of ranked choice voting, many voters might reassess their support if they realized their votes were not counted.

The senator concluded by reiterating his skepticism about ranked choice voting, citing the unacceptable number of votes that could potentially go uncounted. His remarks prompted further discussion among committee members, with Senator Plumb and others weighing in on the topic.

The meeting underscored the complexities surrounding electoral reform in Utah, particularly the challenges of ensuring voter representation and the integrity of the voting process. As the committee continues to deliberate on this issue, the implications of their decisions will likely resonate throughout the state.