Accessibility is one of the fundamental responsibilities of elected officials. For many, this takes the form of a town hall — a gathering where citizens can ask questions, share concerns and hear directly from those who represent them.
In theory, it’s democracy at its best. In practice, lately, it hasn’t always worked that way.
Increasingly, we’ve seen town hall meetings hijacked by a few loud voices determined to dominate the room. It seems to me they arrive not to ask questions, but to cause a scene. The goal isn’t dialogue; it’s disruption. The result? Those who genuinely came to listen, learn and engage are pushed to the sidelines. And elected officials are left unable to offer thoughtful, fact-based answers to reasonable questions.
It’s time to reimagine what a town hall could be.
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During my seven years in Congress, I’ve hosted more than 400 town halls. Along the way, I’ve learned a few things about how to make them more meaningful — and, frankly, more civil.
My favorite format is simple: I start by sharing a few updates on what I’m working on in Washington. Then, I meet with constituents one-on-one for five-minute conversations. No microphone, no stage, no grandstanding — just an old-fashioned conversation.
There have been nights when I’ve done these back-to-back for two hours straight and while Utahns wait, my team is on hand to help solve problems — whether it’s a Social Security issue, a passport delay or a question about a federal program. And yes, sometimes we hear great ideas for legislation.
I’ve been amazed by who shows up. I’ve had people speak to me in those five-minute meetings who might never dream of raising their hand in a crowded auditorium. But given a quiet space and a respectful exchange, they open up — and I get the kind of insights that help me better serve them and represent their interests.
Some of the best town halls don’t happen in a hall at all. Last week alone, I logged over 1,000 miles across Utah, meeting with school superintendents, business owners, elected officials, students — and yes, even protesters. In my book, that was a week-long town hall. We didn’t need a podium. We had honest, productive conversations in the places where people live and work.
Now, I want to invite all 3.5 million Utahns to join me on a journey as we reimagine what accessibility looks like — at a scale we’ve never tried before. Using new tools, new ideas and a shared commitment, I believe we can make it work.
So, when people say, “We want more town halls,” I understand what they’re asking for. They want accessibility. They want answers. They want to be heard. But let’s be honest — if your real goal is to scream, cause a ruckus and get your picture in the paper, then what you want isn’t a town hall. It’s a stage.
What I’m committed to is accessibility that works — for everyone.
I’ll continue to offer meaningful, measurable ways for constituents to engage with me. I’ll continue listening to every person willing to have a reasonable, respectful conversation — even if we disagree, especially if we disagree. Frankly, some of my most important lessons have come from constituents who challenged me.
For those asking me to do more town halls — I hear you. And I will continue to hold as many as I’ve done in the past. That commitment hasn’t changed. What has changed is our congressional schedule, which has kept us in Washington more than usual. But even with that, when I’m back in Utah, my goal remains the same — to be accessible.
I’m also committed to visiting all 29 counties — not just by driving through and filling up the gas tank, but by actually spending time in communities, meeting with local leaders and listening to the people who live there. And yes, I still need to try to carve out a little time for my family and my garden while I’m at it.
I’ll keep testing new formats — including tele-town halls and other creative ways to connect — because I know there are 3.5 million Utahns who want to have my ear. And I want them to know that I’m listening.
This isn’t about headlines or hashtags. It’s about public service. It’s about sensible solutions and real results. And it’s about making sure every voice has a chance to be heard — not just the loudest ones.
(John Curtis) John Curtis is a U.S. senator for Utah.
John Curtis is a U.S. senator for Utah. Visit curtis.senate.gov for updates on upcoming events.
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