Mike Kennedy — Republican Candidate for U.S. House in Utah, 2026

Mike Kennedy advocates for securing borders by completing the border wall, utilizing surveillance technology, and fully equipping border patrol. He introduced the Equal Detention Standards Act of 2025 to standardize immigration detention and the Deporting Fraudsters Act to clarify deportability for those convicted of fraud. He supports streamlining legal immigration processes and has stated that deportations are a necessary consequence of border policy.

““Sometimes dramatic actions result in some consequences that aren’t ideal,” Kennedy said. “These are the side effects when we’ve got people that have been hiding in the shadows for decades.” (Mike Kennedy, Deseret News, August 18, 2025)”

Mike Kennedy advocates for a free-market approach to healthcare, believing government should not be involved and states should develop market-based solutions. He aims to expand Health Savings Accounts and telehealth, increase cost transparency, and reduce prescription drug costs through competition. Kennedy also seeks to reform federal programs like Medicare and Medicaid by eliminating redundant systems and incentivizing healthier lifestyles.

“Government should not be in the health care business. The free market approach is preferable to leaving decisions to bureaucrats. More freedom to choose and to innovate will keep our health care the best in the world. As a physician, I will use my experience and training to push back against Obamacare. The states should be allowed to develop their own market-based answers to our health care challenges. (Mike Kennedy, Ballotpedia)”

Mike Kennedy voted against climate change legislation in 2026. He also introduced bipartisan energy bills aimed at reducing regulations to boost American energy production, citing the need for affordable, reliable energy for families. His voting record is described as showing consistent support for energy and environmental protection initiatives, and he sponsored bills in the area of environmental protection.

““Outdated permitting rules are holding back Utah’s energy potential. Families in Utah and across the country deserve affordable, reliable energy,” said Congressman Mike Kennedy (R-UT). “This bipartisan package cuts through red tape and gives producers the tools to maximize our energy production potential and meet today’s demand while positioning us for the future."”

Research pending more substantial sources.

Mike Kennedy aims to strengthen national security and America's geopolitical stance by eliminating reliance on foreign oil. He prioritizes boosting domestic energy production to ensure a stable energy supply and enhance overall energy independence. This approach is intended to bolster national security and improve America's international standing.

Mike Kennedy states that a vibrant economy relies on a well-educated workforce, advocating for continual improvements in education and support for parents and teachers. He co-introduced the 'Boosting the Rural STEM Pipeline Act' to assist rural schools in hiring trained STEM teachers through the Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program. Kennedy also led the 'United States Research Protection Act' to enhance research security by amending the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act.

“A vibrant economy depends on a well-educated work force. In order for our state to remain competitive, we must focus on continual improvement in education. In Utah, we have some of the best parents and teachers in the country. I will support them by providing the best tools available to help educate our children. — Mike Kennedy, Ballotpedia, 'Education' section of Campaign themes”

Mike Kennedy supports gun rights, as evidenced by his 92% ratings from both the Gun Owners of America and the National Rifle Association. He voted in favor of Utah's HB 219, establishing the state as a Second Amendment Sanctuary State, and supported HB 119, which authorizes incentives for teachers to carry concealed weapons in schools. He also voted to repeal fees for concealed carry permits for school employees and voted Yea on the Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act Reform Act.