UPDATE: Preliminary results from the 2025 general municipal election in Utah County are signaling a dramatic political shake-up as new mayors are poised to take office. Vineyard and Orem are witnessing pivotal changes that could reshape local governance.
In Vineyard, entrepreneur Zack Stratton is leading with a commanding 58% of the vote against City Councilwoman Mardi Sifuentes, who has garnered 41%. This shift comes as current Mayor Julie Fullmer, after eight years in office, announced she would not seek reelection amid mounting criticism from council members and citizens alike. Stratton’s potential victory could herald a new era in Vineyard, especially given his backing from controversial City Councilman Jacob Holdaway.
Furthermore, Vineyard residents are also casting ballots for an additional council seat, following a recent government restructure. In the unofficial results, Parker McCumber leads with 21%, closely followed by Jacob Wood with 20.6% and David Lauret at 20.2%.
Meanwhile, in Orem, the race is heating up as incumbent Mayor David Young faces a tough challenge from Karen McCandless. With 52% of the votes, McCandless is edging out Young, who has 47%. McCandless, a former city councilor and current CEO of Community Action Services and Food Bank, is advocating for significant changes. Young’s tenure has been marked by controversies, including a failed proposal for an Orem-only school and public scrutiny regarding his family’s involvement in a recent scandal.
As these results continue to unfold, the implications for local governance are profound. Residents will be closely watching the final counts, with potential shifts in policies and leadership styles that could affect community development and services.
Stay tuned for further updates as the full results are confirmed and the political landscape of Utah County evolves.
