Harrison Epstein, Daily Herald

The Utah Debate Commission announced the 2022 election calendar Wednesday with debates for U.S. House Districts 3 and 4 on June 1 in Salt Lake City, according to the release.

District 3 incumbent John Curtis is running against challenger Chris Herrod after Herrod’s win at the GOP convention on Saturday. The June 28 primary election will be the third time the two opponents have fought during a primary.

When asked how he felt about debating Herrod again, Curtis said it felt like déjà vu.

“We know each other very well and have been here before,” he said. “I am excited for the contest. Most of my relationship with Chris is running against him, so this is very easy.”

Curtis and Herrod have one thing in common; both men strongly believe they will be victorious over the other.

Harrison Epstein, Daily Herald

“I believe this will be a great chance to articulate what I’ve accomplished in Congress,” Curtis said. “Right now, the people are concerned with gas prices, inflation and war. I’ve positioned myself to be in a very important place to influence things in a way the constituents are expecting.

Curtis added that he’s excited to campaign in Utah and make his case to voters for reelection.

“I’m good at being the underdog,” Herrod said. “This is a position that I am very comfortable with. To say that it’s easy would not be truthful, but I can honestly say that we have a very good chance.”

Both candidates said campaign plans are going well, but Herrod believes he can gain ground in the race by being here, making his case to voters while Curtis works in Washington D.C.

Curtis said he doesn’t view this as a hardship, but a chance for voters to recognize his dedication to serving in Congress and representing the 3rd District.

Harrison Epstein, Daily Herald

“It does pull me out of the district, but there is still a good amount of time, and I’ll make up for that with extra effort,” Curtis said.

As a leader of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, the highest priorities for Curtis include energy, gas prices and inflation-related issues.

Herrod said his priorities align with “protecting America” by finding ways to assist the United States in being energy independent, national debt reduction and implementing stricter national boarder restrictions.

4th District

In the 4th District, first-term incumbent Burgess Owens is facing a challenge from Jake Hunsaker. This is the first debate for Owens since defeating former U.S. Rep. Ben McAdams in the 2020 General Election. Owens and his office did not respond to requests for comment.

Hunsaker expressed excitement over the upcoming debate and primary election. He is confident that he can thrive and be victorious in the June 28 primary due to hi direct involvement with issues. Owens handily won the GOP convention vote on Saturday, with Hunsaker pushing a primary election after gathering signatures on petitions.

Harrison Epstein, Daily Herald

“We believe our message is reaching the people” Hunsaker said. “It’s time for a leader in the fourth district that is involved in the issues that are uniquely Utah’s and not just the shiny national issues of D.C. We’ve been met with an overwhelming amount of support from local leaders and voters who want better leadership. I’m running because there is an absence of local presence on issues that matter here to Utahns.”

If elected, Hunsaker said he plans to cut federal overspending by setting a budget, reform congressional ethics and fight the scope of federal land ownership in Utah.

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