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Young Black voters buck Democratic old guard

Black voters in Gen Z are especially willing to back progressives and reject establishment Democrats.

Politics & Policy

The nation&#x27;s old guard of Black leaders is still a key force for Democrats, but this year&#x27;s primaries have revealed the rising influence of Black <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Gen Z voters" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/19/civil-rights-era-young-americans-gen-z-shift" data-vars-content-id="4e0be2d7-9a60-49a2-bf34-6c56ac35d3f1" data-vars-headline="Young Black voters buck Democratic old guard" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/19/civil-rights-era-young-americans-gen-z-shift" target="_self">Gen Z voters</a> who aren&#x27;t swayed by their elders&#x27; seniority, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="civil rights credentials" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/02/voting-rights-acts-60th-anniversary-uncertainty" data-vars-content-id="4e0be2d7-9a60-49a2-bf34-6c56ac35d3f1" data-vars-headline="Young Black voters buck Democratic old guard" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/02/voting-rights-acts-60th-anniversary-uncertainty" target="_self">civil rights credentials</a> or endorsements.Driving the news: Michigan&#x27;s Democratic primary for Senate offered a snapshot of the growing generational divide among Black voters in particular.

Big Tech faces Big Resistance

Meta's settlement is the latest milestone in a decade-long unwinding of Big Tech's unfettered power.

Technology

Meta&#x27;s landmark <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="social media settlement" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/26/meta-lawsuit-settlement-states-facebook" data-vars-content-id="e56de946-4f15-4eeb-9463-432fcd9f158a" data-vars-headline="Big Tech faces Big Resistance" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/26/meta-lawsuit-settlement-states-facebook" target="_self">social media settlement</a> marks the latest milestone in a decade-long unwinding of Big Tech&#x27;s once-unfettered freedom to operate.Why it matters: The AI industry is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="watching closely" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/19/data-centers-ai-political-opinion" data-vars-content-id="e56de946-4f15-4eeb-9463-432fcd9f158a" data-vars-headline="Big Tech faces Big Resistance" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/19/data-centers-ai-political-opinion" target="_self">watching closely</a>. Its historic expansion, already fraught with job risks and public anxiety, depends on building thousands of power-hungry <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data centers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/25/data-centers-ai-electricity-water-politics" data-vars-content-id="e56de946-4f15-4eeb-9463-432fcd9f158a" data-vars-headline="Big Tech faces Big Resistance" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/25/data-centers-ai-electricity-water-politics" target="_self">data centers</a> in communities where opposition is rising fast.

"Allyship" and "birthing people": Democrats confront vocabulary problem

Several potential 2028 hopefuls say the party is alienating regular voters with "woke" rhetoric.

Unhoused people. Criminal justice-impacted individuals. Substance use disorder. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Birthing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/22/democrats-language-third-way-voters-trump-maga" data-vars-content-id="864b55f2-b92b-4e55-8951-ae5e5d273bf1" data-vars-headline="&quot;Allyship&quot; and &quot;birthing people&quot;: Democrats confront vocabulary problem" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/22/democrats-language-third-way-voters-trump-maga" target="_self">Birthing</a> people.<ul><li>Several Democrats eyeing 2028 runs for president say the party has a vocabulary problem as much as a messaging one. The left&#x27;s embrace of &quot;woke&quot; buzzwords alienated working-class voters and drove many of them to Donald Trump, they say.</li></ul>Why it matters: To get them back, they want more Democrats to start speaking more like ordinary people — and less like progressive politicos or liberal arts professors.

Big Tech's regulatory reckoning crosses the Atlantic

U.S. officials, at least state ones, are taking a page from their European counterparts.

Business

Meta&#x27;s historic <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="settlement" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/26/meta-lawsuit-settlement-states-facebook" data-vars-content-id="49bd7830-909c-4ec6-a560-e4a56b336a96" data-vars-headline="Big Tech&#x27;s regulatory reckoning crosses the Atlantic" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/26/meta-lawsuit-settlement-states-facebook" target="_self">settlement</a> with 51 U.S. state and territory attorneys general represents one of the largest government penalties ever levied on a Big Tech firm anywhere.Why it matters: For the first time, U.S. officials — at least at the state level —have proven they are as serious about policing Big Tech as their European counterparts.

FDA pick could reheat abortion politics before midterms

Republicans could dodge backlash over abortion rights by delaying.

Health

Past criticism of abortion pills by President Trump&#x27;s nominee to lead the Food and Drug Administration could revive an intense debate over abortion rights that the administration has largely managed to duck for the last year and a half. Why it matters: Though the Senate is unlikely to hold a confirmation vote on White House aide Heidi Overton before the midterm elections, new talk about dialing back access to the pills could work both ways politically for Republicans.

Rogan podcast doesn't paint the full picture of homelessness in SLC

Comedian Shane Gillis said he chased down by "ten homeless guys" when he was starting out in SLC's comedy scene.

Politics

Despite the viral Joe Rogan clip zeroing in on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Salt Lake City&#x27;s homelessness" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/07/utah-homelessness-falls-chronic-mental-illness" data-vars-content-id="510bddcf-803b-4079-be61-e92c12b8a880" data-vars-headline="Rogan podcast doesn&#x27;t paint the full picture of homelessness in SLC" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/07/utah-homelessness-falls-chronic-mental-illness" target="_self">Salt Lake City&#x27;s homelessness</a>, new data shows it&#x27;s actually declining.Why it matters: Homelessness is down in Utah for the first time in six years, but <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="barriers to affordable housing" data-vars-click-url="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2026/07/21/home-prices-salt-lake-county-break-record/" data-vars-content-id="510bddcf-803b-4079-be61-e92c12b8a880" data-vars-headline="Rogan podcast doesn&#x27;t paint the full picture of homelessness in SLC" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2026/07/21/home-prices-salt-lake-county-break-record/" target="_blank">barriers to affordable housing</a> remain.

Predicting Utah's Michelin mentions

Here are your best guesses for one of the most coveted distinctions in the culinary arts.

Food and Drink

We asked you to predict which Utah restaurants are likeliest to win a mention in the upcoming <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="American Southwest Michelin guide" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/12/15/michelin-guide-southwest-utah-restaurant-scene" data-vars-content-id="f89da55b-471d-46d8-a52d-af7bef4e1946" data-vars-headline="Predicting Utah&#x27;s Michelin mentions" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/12/15/michelin-guide-southwest-utah-restaurant-scene" target="_self">American Southwest Michelin guide</a>, and now we&#x27;re hungry.The big picture: Utah eateries are eligible for the famously choosy guide for the first time when its selections are announced at a Las Vegas ceremony this week.

Exclusive: Defense contractors unveil collaborative in Utah

The group could make smaller businesses more competitive in an industry where startups often don't have the resources to wait years for a big government payday.

Aerospace

Utah defense contractor CenCore has launched a coalition of businesses that plan to work together to win defense and intelligence agency contracts.Why it matters: The group — dubbed the Integrated Warfighter Ecosystem (IWE) — could make smaller businesses more competitive in an industry where startups often don&#x27;t have the resources to wait years for a big government payday, CenCore CEO Adam Fife tells Axios.

The Roadless Rule protects some of Utah's best loved hikes. Trump wants to end it

The rule shields parts of Mill Creek Canyon, the Wasatch Crest and both White Pine lakes.

News

The Trump administration has moved closer to eliminating the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Roadless Rule" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/09/05/trump-roadless-rule-utah-wildfires-logging-national-forests" data-vars-content-id="0484b979-eff2-4927-b4d7-63620046b9a4" data-vars-headline="The Roadless Rule protects some of Utah&#x27;s best loved hikes. Trump wants to end it" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/09/05/trump-roadless-rule-utah-wildfires-logging-national-forests" target="_self">Roadless Rule</a> in national forests, potentially opening vast areas in Utah to development.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="decades-old federal policy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/planning/roadless" data-vars-content-id="0484b979-eff2-4927-b4d7-63620046b9a4" data-vars-headline="The Roadless Rule protects some of Utah&#x27;s best loved hikes. Trump wants to end it" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/planning/roadless" target="_blank">decades-old federal policy</a> has protected millions of acres of wilderness from new roads and logging — to the delight of conservationists and the ire of the timber industry.

Grumpy Dough's Filipino-inspired sandwiches are a must-try

Grumpy Dough's food truck in Salt Lake City stands out for its Filipino-inspired breakfast sandwiches.

I may have found one of my new favorite breakfast sandwiches in Salt Lake City after mourning <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Frankie &amp; Essl&#x27;s all-too-brief run" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/03/17/salt-lake-city-breakfast-sandwich-frankie-essl-utah" data-vars-content-id="bf60c92e-9e80-4735-9d9e-774ec933e0b9" data-vars-headline="Grumpy Dough&#x27;s Filipino-inspired sandwiches are a must-try" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/03/17/salt-lake-city-breakfast-sandwich-frankie-essl-utah" target="_self">Frankie &amp; Essl&#x27;s all-too-brief run</a>.State of play: I visited <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Grumpy Dough" data-vars-click-url="https://grumpydough.com/" data-vars-content-id="bf60c92e-9e80-4735-9d9e-774ec933e0b9" data-vars-headline="Grumpy Dough&#x27;s Filipino-inspired sandwiches are a must-try" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://grumpydough.com/" target="_blank">Grumpy Dough</a>, a food truck serving up Filipino-inspired breakfast sandwiches, at the Wheeler Farm Farmer&#x27;s Market last Sunday, and I&#x27;m a convert.

Knoops announces opening date of 1st U.S. store in Salt Lake City

The U.K. chain is opening in a state home to nationally known dessert brands.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Knoops" data-vars-click-url="https://knoops.com/en-us?srsltid=AfmBOooG4Zic3u2mfiZdNNaKpGuwSFtNsalpTfeNjw8qwpg0H9A6OjGS" data-vars-content-id="66aed6d1-00a6-4cd1-86b7-1159702eda1a" data-vars-headline="Knoops announces opening date of 1st U.S. store in Salt Lake City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://knoops.com/en-us?srsltid=AfmBOooG4Zic3u2mfiZdNNaKpGuwSFtNsalpTfeNjw8qwpg0H9A6OjGS" target="_blank">Knoops</a>, an international chocolate-focused cafe chain, is opening its first U.S. location in Salt Lake City&#x27;s 9th and 9th neighborhood Aug. 21, the company <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="announced" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DbtZvizRDTp/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="66aed6d1-00a6-4cd1-86b7-1159702eda1a" data-vars-headline="Knoops announces opening date of 1st U.S. store in Salt Lake City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DbtZvizRDTp/?hl=en" target="_blank">announced</a> Thursday.The intrigue: The cafe specializes in gourmet hot chocolate and other chocolate-based drinks — and it&#x27;s opening in a state with a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="well-established penchant for sweets" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/06/01/magnolia-bakery-utah-locations-holladay-first" data-vars-content-id="66aed6d1-00a6-4cd1-86b7-1159702eda1a" data-vars-headline="Knoops announces opening date of 1st U.S. store in Salt Lake City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/06/01/magnolia-bakery-utah-locations-holladay-first" target="_self">well-established penchant for sweets</a>.

Rico Brand's next move could be its biggest yet

Fierro tells Axios he's in final talks with Costco to bring Rico Brand to the retailer's Southwest region.

You may not spot Jorge Fierro&#x27;s ready-to-eat Mexican food at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Downtown Farmers Market" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/06/04/downtown-farmers-market-opening-new-vendors" data-vars-content-id="df1d585d-e644-4e87-91fa-0fb627c940dd" data-vars-headline="Rico Brand&#x27;s next move could be its biggest yet" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/06/04/downtown-farmers-market-opening-new-vendors" target="_self">Downtown Farmers Market</a> this summer, but there&#x27;s a good chance you&#x27;ll see it at some Costcos later this year.Why it matters: Nearly 30 years after he started selling pinto beans at Pioneer Park, Fierro&#x27;s business, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Rico Brand" data-vars-click-url="https://ricobrand.com/" data-vars-content-id="df1d585d-e644-4e87-91fa-0fb627c940dd" data-vars-headline="Rico Brand&#x27;s next move could be its biggest yet" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://ricobrand.com/" target="_blank">Rico Brand</a>, is eyeing expansion in one of the nation&#x27;s largest retailers.

How to celebrate National IPA Day (or not) in Salt Lake

It's not our favorite beer, but we're in the minority.

Thursday is National IPA Day — the first Thursday of August, when connoisseurs raise their glasses to a beer that smells like weed and tastes like dandelion stains. The big picture: India Pale Ales have <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reigned supreme over craft brewing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.thetakeout.com/2102970/most-popular-craft-beer-type-in-the-us-ipa/" data-vars-content-id="de801012-3ae2-410b-9919-9b949a233591" data-vars-headline="How to celebrate National IPA Day (or not) in Salt Lake" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.thetakeout.com/2102970/most-popular-craft-beer-type-in-the-us-ipa/" target="_blank">reigned supreme over craft brewing</a> for many years in a trend that, unlike bacon on desserts, appears unlikely to die.

ICE drops plans to turn SLC warehouse into detention center

It's a sharp reversal from DHS's accelerated plans to have the warehouses operational before the end of the year.

The Department of Homeland Security is abandoning <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="plans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/03/13/ice-buys-warehouse-salt-lake-city-detention-facility-utah" data-vars-content-id="49ce9394-c032-40da-a001-1e998ce93b4b" data-vars-headline="ICE drops plans to turn SLC warehouse into detention center" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/03/13/ice-buys-warehouse-salt-lake-city-detention-facility-utah" target="_self">plans</a> to convert an empty Salt Lake City warehouse into an ICE detention center, according to a new court filing.Why it matters: The proposed facility would have marked Utah&#x27;s first immigration detention center, holding between 7,500 to 10,000 people, despite staunch opposition from local leaders.

Group founded by Tim Ballard gets big contract for immigration work

Ballard resigned amid misconduct allegations. Its new CEO is an ex-ICE agent.

The Trump administration has awarded more than $244 million in a no-bid legal services contract to Our Rescue — formerly<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" Operation Underground Railroad" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/09/20/tim-ballard-sound-of-freedom-mormon-senate" data-vars-content-id="4d2aabc6-b876-4676-827c-3ec6f98d3a62" data-vars-headline="Group founded by Tim Ballard gets big contract for immigration work" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/09/20/tim-ballard-sound-of-freedom-mormon-senate" target="_self"> Operation Underground Railroad</a>, the nonprofit whose founder, Utah celebrity activist Tim Ballard, resigned <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="amid sexual misconduct allegations" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/09/28/tim-ballard-sexual-misconduct-trafficking-our-sound-freedom" data-vars-content-id="4d2aabc6-b876-4676-827c-3ec6f98d3a62" data-vars-headline="Group founded by Tim Ballard gets big contract for immigration work" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/09/28/tim-ballard-sexual-misconduct-trafficking-our-sound-freedom" target="_self">amid sexual misconduct allegations</a>.Why it matters: The contract appoints Our Rescue to represent vulnerable migrant children under a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="federal law" data-vars-click-url="https://www.congress.gov/bill/110th-congress/house-bill/7311/text" data-vars-content-id="4d2aabc6-b876-4676-827c-3ec6f98d3a62" data-vars-headline="Group founded by Tim Ballard gets big contract for immigration work" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/110th-congress/house-bill/7311/text" target="_blank">federal law</a> requiring legal counsel for unaccompanied minors who came to the U.S. without a parent.

FrontRunner 2X moves closer to $1.3B federal grant

The federal grant would allow FrontRunner to run every 15 minutes during peak, including Sundays, by 2030.

State transportation officials are one step closer to receiving $1.3 billion in federal funding that would allow <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="FrontRunner" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/04/27/frontrunner-15-anniversary-utah-transit-authority-train" data-vars-content-id="9e2dde49-4947-4d79-ac8b-3f9f9a5bc1ed" data-vars-headline="FrontRunner 2X moves closer to $1.3B federal grant" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/04/27/frontrunner-15-anniversary-utah-transit-authority-train" target="_self">FrontRunner</a> to run more frequently — including on Sundays.Why it matters: The funding would <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="double-track 11 sections" data-vars-click-url="https://frontrunner2x.utah.gov/project-improvements" data-vars-content-id="9e2dde49-4947-4d79-ac8b-3f9f9a5bc1ed" data-vars-headline="FrontRunner 2X moves closer to $1.3B federal grant" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://frontrunner2x.utah.gov/project-improvements" target="_blank">double-track 11 sections</a> of the commuter rail line, enabling FrontRunner to run every 15 to 30 minutes, instead of every 30 minutes to one hour.

Airbnb's broader fight over regulations reaches Salt Lake City

The friction in Salt Lake City centers on the city's enforcement methods.

Airbnb&#x27;s opposition over how Salt Lake City is enforcing its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="short-term rental rules" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/07/01/short-term-rental-regulations-utah-limit" data-vars-content-id="f394a69f-f625-4a8d-b835-82c55da2ea4d" data-vars-headline="Airbnb&#x27;s broader fight over regulations reaches Salt Lake City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/07/01/short-term-rental-regulations-utah-limit" target="_self">short-term rental rules</a> is the latest in a string of objections the company has made in communities around the U.S.Why it matters: Salt Lake City&#x27;s new regulations comes as local leaders aim to increase the city&#x27;s housing supply amid soaring costs and to improve neighborhood safety.

Salt Lake bucks "accidental landlord" trend

Sellers markets don't need to rent their inventory.

Around 1.5% of the Salt Lake metro&#x27;s rental listings on Zillow are from sellers the platform calls &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="accidental landlords" data-vars-click-url="https://www.zillow.com/research/accidental-landlords-36151/" data-vars-content-id="e56352b5-e07d-4de9-8f8a-e6565ac3d814" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake bucks &quot;accidental landlord&quot; trend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.zillow.com/research/accidental-landlords-36151/" target="_blank">accidental landlords</a>.&quot;Why it matters: That&#x27;s one of the lowest shares in the nation of people who pulled their homes off the market and rented them out instead.

$1,500 now gets you less apartment space in Salt Lake City

We landed in the middle of the pack nationally for how much space $1,500 a month can buy.

For $1,500 a month, renters can expect a 737-square-foot apartment in Salt Lake City, 2.35% less space than a year ago, according to a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="RentCafe analysis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.rentcafe.com/blog/rental-market/market-snapshots/rental-space-for-1500/" data-vars-content-id="5df121fd-09ac-47ad-9be5-ce6288d71f0d" data-vars-headline="$1,500 now gets you less apartment space in Salt Lake City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.rentcafe.com/blog/rental-market/market-snapshots/rental-space-for-1500/" target="_blank">RentCafe analysis</a>.The big picture: Utah&#x27;s capital ranked No. 120 out of 200 U.S. cities for how much space $1,500 a month can buy.

Salt Lake City tightens short-term rental requirements

The enhanced regulations will improve safety and reduce nuisances, city leaders say.

Beginning July 1, Salt Lake City will start requiring business licenses for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="short-term rentals" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2022/07/06/utah-short-term-rentals-rising" data-vars-content-id="be666e35-3c25-4018-899f-9ea8a3a494d0" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City tightens short-term rental requirements" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2022/07/06/utah-short-term-rentals-rising" target="_self">short-term rentals</a> listed on Airbnb, Vrbo and other similar platforms.Why it matters: The enhanced regulations will improve safety and reduce nuisances, city leaders say.

Whiskey Street secures $1 million to rebuild after blaze

The loan comes about a year after a fire tore through downtown's nightlife hub, destroying Whiskey Street.

Whiskey Street&#x27;s owners were awarded a $1 million loan by the city this week to install a new rooftop patio as the beloved bar and eatery undergoes a nearly $4 million rebuild.The big picture: The funding comes about a year after a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fire tore through downtown&#x27;s nightlife hub" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/08/12/salt-lake-city-downtown-fire-bars-restaurants-recovery" data-vars-content-id="05c38e69-6fe1-4fee-979d-9384f315288b" data-vars-headline="Whiskey Street secures $1 million to rebuild after blaze" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/08/12/salt-lake-city-downtown-fire-bars-restaurants-recovery" target="_self">fire tore through downtown&#x27;s nightlife hub</a>, destroying Whiskey Street and other neighboring businesses.

Outdoor Retailer lives on after Salt Lake City

The massive trade show used to turn SLC into a party. That changed after political fights and COVID.

The Salt Palace was quiet Wednesday as one of its mainstay events <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="kicked off" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/19/outdoor-retailer-minneapolis-trade-show" data-vars-content-id="9bd6c3e1-ad98-4870-a338-e1453d5e8245" data-vars-headline="Outdoor Retailer lives on after Salt Lake City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/19/outdoor-retailer-minneapolis-trade-show" target="_self">kicked off</a> in another time zone.State of play: After more than 20 years in Salt Lake, the Outdoor Retailer trade show is now underway in Minneapolis.

Salt Lake City's unemployment rate dipped to 3.6% in June

Utah's capital added 22,900 jobs since last June, according to new federal data.

Salt Lake City&#x27;s unemployment rate declined to a seasonally adjusted 3.6% in June, matching national trends, new federal data shows.Why it matters: Half of the cities and metro areas tracked in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="jobs report" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bls.gov/news.release/metro.nr0.htm" data-vars-content-id="c9543578-8bd6-4571-9b9a-917f230fcce7" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City&#x27;s unemployment rate dipped to 3.6% in June" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bls.gov/news.release/metro.nr0.htm" target="_blank">jobs report</a> posted higher unemployment rates, but Salt Lake City&#x27;s low figure suggests its labor market remains solid.

Salt Lake this weekend: Lunar eclipse, Legos, fashion and festivals

It&#x27;s a big weekend here in the 801!🌘 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Lunar eclipse" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/WillardEcclesAstronomyObservatory/posts/pfbid0SYH4vQgYHBxoPfx4Kzwfk3YsYdL1yNYPjZxyxLpV5BMupn9vMEGzSKjQwwnvQWdfl" data-vars-content-id="af1c5392-d4e4-46e1-a5aa-153f30e2bfe8" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake this weekend: Lunar eclipse, Legos, fashion and festivals" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/WillardEcclesAstronomyObservatory/posts/pfbid0SYH4vQgYHBxoPfx4Kzwfk3YsYdL1yNYPjZxyxLpV5BMupn9vMEGzSKjQwwnvQWdfl" target="_blank">Lunar eclipse</a>: The weather is iffy — but not totally <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="hopeless" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/11/perseid-meteor-shower-utah-weather-lunar-eclipse-2026" data-vars-content-id="af1c5392-d4e4-46e1-a5aa-153f30e2bfe8" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake this weekend: Lunar eclipse, Legos, fashion and festivals" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/11/perseid-meteor-shower-utah-weather-lunar-eclipse-2026" target="_self">hopeless</a>! — for Thursday night&#x27;s near-total Sturgeon Moon eclipse.

Utah's tourism generated $13.7 billion in visitor spending

Visitor spending grew slightly despite dips in parks visitation, air travel and skier days, per a new report.

Utah&#x27;s travel and tourism sector generated a record $13.7 billion in visitor spending last year, according to a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="report" data-vars-click-url="https://d36oiwf74r1rap.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/TT-Report-Aug2026.pdf" data-vars-content-id="cc9f8ff5-abc4-4a7f-9111-70dd4adfbdf3" data-vars-headline="Utah&#x27;s tourism generated $13.7 billion in visitor spending" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://d36oiwf74r1rap.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/TT-Report-Aug2026.pdf" target="_blank">report</a>.<ul><li>That&#x27;s up 0.6% from the year prior when adjusted for inflation.</li></ul>

Monte in South Salt Lake wins Utah's first Michelin star

A mention in the famously choosy guide is a huge boon for a restaurant's reputation and business.

Utah scored its first Michelin star in the new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="American Southwest Michelin Guide" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/24/utah-michelin-star-predictions" data-vars-content-id="47025b31-2160-469a-ab13-4dfa167bed94" data-vars-headline="Monte in South Salt Lake wins Utah&#x27;s first Michelin star" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/24/utah-michelin-star-predictions" target="_self">American Southwest Michelin Guide</a>, which launched with a ceremony Wednesday.Why it matters: A mention in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="famously choosy guide" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/12/15/michelin-guide-southwest-utah-restaurant-scene" data-vars-content-id="47025b31-2160-469a-ab13-4dfa167bed94" data-vars-headline="Monte in South Salt Lake wins Utah&#x27;s first Michelin star" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/12/15/michelin-guide-southwest-utah-restaurant-scene" target="_self">famously choosy guide</a> is a huge boon for any restaurant&#x27;s reputation and business.

Utah among U.S. states to secure settlement with Meta

Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, will impose new restrictions for youth as part of the settlement.

Utah is set to receive about $212 million as part of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Meta&#x27;s multistate settlement" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/26/meta-lawsuit-settlement-states-facebook" data-vars-content-id="17e532f6-3e97-42dc-a761-8b01e57ab705" data-vars-headline="Utah among U.S. states to secure settlement with Meta" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/26/meta-lawsuit-settlement-states-facebook" target="_self">Meta&#x27;s multistate settlement</a> over allegations that Facebook and Instagram were designed in ways that harm children.Why it matters: The settlement represents a victory for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Utah&#x27;s attempts to hold social media companies accountable" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/06/30/utah-lawsuit-snapchat-youth-safety-children-teens" data-vars-content-id="17e532f6-3e97-42dc-a761-8b01e57ab705" data-vars-headline="Utah among U.S. states to secure settlement with Meta" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/06/30/utah-lawsuit-snapchat-youth-safety-children-teens" target="_self">Utah&#x27;s attempts to hold social media companies accountable</a> for their perceived mental health impacts on young people.

Orem's University Place Mall is now open Sundays

It's a landmark change in a county where "honor the Sabbath" was a longtime business norm.

University Place Mall began opening on Sundays for the first time this month. Why it matters: Utah County is broadly seen as the cultural center of Mormonism — a faith that generally instructs believers not to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="work or shop on Sundays" data-vars-click-url="https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1996/04/the-sabbath-day-and-sunday-shopping?lang=eng" data-vars-content-id="86685ce2-1528-45ba-bd4c-1fd0fc561251" data-vars-headline="Orem&#x27;s University Place Mall is now open Sundays" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1996/04/the-sabbath-day-and-sunday-shopping?lang=eng" target="_blank">work or shop on Sundays</a>.

Elizabeth Smart launches new podcast that focuses on survivors

"The Survivor Files With Elizabeth Smart" weekly podcast premiered Monday.

Elizabeth Smart has launched a new true crime podcast that flips the script by placing survivors at the center of their harrowing stories.Driving the news: &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Survivor Files With Elizabeth Smart&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-the-survivor-files-with-e-340549681" data-vars-content-id="cb08fe08-9aa0-438b-aa72-6a47b57ac30f" data-vars-headline="Elizabeth Smart launches new podcast that focuses on survivors" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-the-survivor-files-with-e-340549681" target="_blank">The Survivor Files With Elizabeth Smart&quot;</a> weekly podcast premiered last week and is slated to feature 48 episodes.

True crime TV series highlights missing Utah man

A Utah missing person case from 2009 is getting another look with the Freeform <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="true crime" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/07/15/my-favorite-murder-podcast-to-tour-in-slc" data-vars-content-id="2bcfe0cd-9e59-4f1b-9f87-e69ba8bf8419" data-vars-headline="True crime TV series highlights missing Utah man" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/07/15/my-favorite-murder-podcast-to-tour-in-slc" target="_self">true crime</a> series &quot;Somebody Knows Something,&quot; streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.Driving the news: A 42-minute <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="episode" data-vars-click-url="https://www.disneyplus.com/play/effca214-e61a-4d19-abf3-d24f0409368a" data-vars-content-id="2bcfe0cd-9e59-4f1b-9f87-e69ba8bf8419" data-vars-headline="True crime TV series highlights missing Utah man" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.disneyplus.com/play/effca214-e61a-4d19-abf3-d24f0409368a" target="_blank">episode</a> released this week reviews the disappearance of then-30-year-old Steve Koecher, a St. George man who was last seen Dec. 13, 2009 on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="surveillance footage" data-vars-click-url="https://news3lv.com/news/local/the-search-for-man-who-went-missing-in-henderson-in-2009-continues" data-vars-content-id="2bcfe0cd-9e59-4f1b-9f87-e69ba8bf8419" data-vars-headline="True crime TV series highlights missing Utah man" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://news3lv.com/news/local/the-search-for-man-who-went-missing-in-henderson-in-2009-continues" target="_blank">surveillance footage</a> in Henderson, Nevada.

Utah's vaccine exemptions spiked amid measles outbreak

Immunization counts also fell below herd immunity for whooping cough — and, in some aras, polio.

Utah&#x27;s kindergartners had the nation&#x27;s second highest rate of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="vaccine exemptions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/08/04/utah-vaccine-exemption-rate-second-highest" data-vars-content-id="0aae2516-3a07-4011-ab93-c34eb0f48f30" data-vars-headline="Utah&#x27;s vaccine exemptions spiked amid measles outbreak" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/08/04/utah-vaccine-exemption-rate-second-highest" target="_self">vaccine exemptions</a> last year.Why it matters: Utah&#x27;s waiver rate grew faster than in any other state — despite an active measles outbreak as kids returned to school in fall 2025, per <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="CDC data" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/17/kindergarten-vaccine-rates-fall" data-vars-content-id="0aae2516-3a07-4011-ab93-c34eb0f48f30" data-vars-headline="Utah&#x27;s vaccine exemptions spiked amid measles outbreak" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/17/kindergarten-vaccine-rates-fall" target="_self">CDC data</a> released this week.

Hide & Seek keeps ultra-fine dining hush hush

It's apropos for a speakeasy — but this hidden Salt Lake gem deserves more attention.

There&#x27;s a good chance you haven&#x27;t heard of one of Salt Lake&#x27;s highest-caliber restaurants.<ul><li>Yes, but: That&#x27;s part of the fun.</li></ul>

Salt Lake weekend events: Grid City Music Fest and Tony Hawk's Vert Alert

Also: Sports cards and memorabilia on display.

With grids, crossroads and Vert, all lines are pointing toward a busy weekend in and around SLC.🛹 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tony Hawk&#x27;s Vert Alert" data-vars-click-url="https://www.thvertalert.com/" data-vars-content-id="ab3401f1-034d-4fcc-bd90-4c6ab7d73d89" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake weekend events: Grid City Music Fest and Tony Hawk&#x27;s Vert Alert" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.thvertalert.com/" target="_blank">Tony Hawk&#x27;s Vert Alert</a>: The annual skateboarding competition is free to watch at the University of Utah&#x27;s Huntsman Center on Friday and Saturday.

Inside the U.S.'s 1st Knoops in Salt Lake City

Knoops founder tells Axios that the brand is well-suited in Utah, where its products appeal to people who avoid coffee and alcohol.

Knoops, a British cafe serving chocolate-infused drinks, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="opens its first U.S. location" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/06/knoops-chocolate-first-us-store-opening" data-vars-content-id="184085dd-3f64-44b4-9710-dd1c35891764" data-vars-headline="Inside the U.S.&#x27;s 1st Knoops in Salt Lake City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/08/06/knoops-chocolate-first-us-store-opening" target="_self">opens its first U.S. location</a> in Salt Lake City Friday — and Axios got a behind-the-scenes look inside.The big picture: Knoops&#x27; arrival comes as artisan cocoa-based beverages <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gain steam" data-vars-click-url="https://www.miamiherald.com/living/food-drink/article313138672.html" data-vars-content-id="184085dd-3f64-44b4-9710-dd1c35891764" data-vars-headline="Inside the U.S.&#x27;s 1st Knoops in Salt Lake City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.miamiherald.com/living/food-drink/article313138672.html" target="_blank">gain steam</a> nationally, fueled by viral social media trends and greater consumer demand for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ethically sourced chocolate" data-vars-click-url="https://rawmanticchocolate.com/blogs/rawmantic-chocolate-blog/why-consumers-are-switching-to-artisanal-chocolate?srsltid=AfmBOoqbXIGK-PcA7cuGpftZibFJFRcXBilas1XhQgfHNUnemqaFupnz" data-vars-content-id="184085dd-3f64-44b4-9710-dd1c35891764" data-vars-headline="Inside the U.S.&#x27;s 1st Knoops in Salt Lake City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://rawmanticchocolate.com/blogs/rawmantic-chocolate-blog/why-consumers-are-switching-to-artisanal-chocolate?srsltid=AfmBOoqbXIGK-PcA7cuGpftZibFJFRcXBilas1XhQgfHNUnemqaFupnz" target="_blank">ethically sourced chocolate</a>.

Salt Lake weekend events: Arts fests, Indian food, monster trucks and more

There&#x27;s a whole lotta weekend happening in and around Salt Lake.🎪 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Big Top Diaper Drive" data-vars-click-url="https://www.homeaidutah.org/diaperdrive" data-vars-content-id="930aabda-837a-4a3e-820a-a057d41b7761" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake weekend events: Arts fests, Indian food, monster trucks and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.homeaidutah.org/diaperdrive" target="_blank">Big Top Diaper Drive</a>: Bring diapers to join in the games, petting zoo, face painting and more 10am-2pm Friday at The Other Side Village.

Lisa Barlow featured in "Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip"

The housewives' coast-to-coast trip celebrates the franchise's 20th anniversary.

If you need a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reality TV fix" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/11/14/rhoslc-hits-the-road-for-bravocon" data-vars-content-id="cf131116-5bd0-4731-ac80-632c0c64cd01" data-vars-headline="Lisa Barlow featured in &quot;Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/11/14/rhoslc-hits-the-road-for-bravocon" target="_self">reality TV fix</a>, Lisa Barlow is representing Salt Lake City in the fifth season of &quot;Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip.&quot;How it works: The &quot;Roaring 20th&quot; trip sends Barlow with six other housewives around the country to reminisce on two decades of the Real Housewives franchise.

A new film festival is coming to Park City

The first-ever Park City Film Festival will run Oct. 23-25.

Park City is hosting a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new film festival" data-vars-click-url="https://parkcityfilm.org/festival/" data-vars-content-id="cc70300f-1a67-4a04-8714-ca47331ff657" data-vars-headline="A new film festival is coming to Park City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://parkcityfilm.org/festival/" target="_blank">new film festival</a> this fall after the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Sundance Film Festival left Utah" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/01/29/sundance-ends-utah-run-boulder-next" data-vars-content-id="cc70300f-1a67-4a04-8714-ca47331ff657" data-vars-headline="A new film festival is coming to Park City" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/01/29/sundance-ends-utah-run-boulder-next" target="_self">Sundance Film Festival left Utah</a> for Colorado.State of play: The first-ever Park City Film Festival will run Oct. 23-25, featuring a &quot;curated selection&quot; of movies, Q&amp;As and panel discussions.

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Salt Lake this weekend: Lunar eclipse, Legos, fashion and festivals

Utah's tourism generated $13.7 billion in visitor spending

Monte in South Salt Lake wins Utah's first Michelin star

Utah among U.S. states to secure settlement with Meta

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