Kent Udell

Kent Udell is the Democratic nominee for Utah's 3rd Congressional District, challenging Republican Rep. Celeste Maloy. A retired professor of mechanical engineering who taught at the University of Utah and UC Berkeley, he has also served on federal advisory boards and says corruption in federal politics prompted his run.[1][2][3]

Udell was born in Lehi, Utah, and now lives in Moab.[1][2] He earned a master's degree and a doctorate from the University of Utah; KSL reports that his undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering is from Utah State University, while his Ballotpedia profile lists a bachelor's degree from the University of Utah.[1][2]

Udell built his career as a professor of engineering, teaching at the University of California, Berkeley and the University of Utah, and he has served on federal advisory boards.[1][2] He also worked in the petroleum industry, which he told the Deseret News would help him act as a bridge between the federal government and the district's communities, including Uintah County, coal country and the tourism industry.[2]

Udell entered the race after retiring, saying he was prompted by what he described as corruption of big money in politics and of the political system itself.[2] He advanced to the general election without appearing on a primary ballot after the June 23, 2026 Democratic primary was canceled.[1]

Researched from the cited sources on 2026-10-21.