Utah loses top pollster

Utah’s preeminent pollster has died. Dan Jones, 84, succumbed to congestive heart failure that he had battled for several years, according to his wife, businesswoman and former legislator Pat Jones. Mrs. Jones said that he was surrounded by his family when he died on Nov. 2.

Best known for his polling firm, Dan Jones & Associates, Jones taught at the University of Utah for more than 52 years. He received his Ph.D. from the university and was a life-long ardent supporter of the school’s athletic programs. {mprestriction ids="1,3"}

Both Dan and Pat Jones had a lasting impact on the Utah political landscape and Utah politicians immediately responded to his passing.

U.S. Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, said, “Dan was a remarkable man who had a profound impact on Utah’s political landscape. But most importantly, he was a great friend. Elaine and I will miss him dearly. My prayers are with Pat and the Jones family at this difficult time.”

Mitt Romney called Jones a “political institution in Utah” in a statement last week. “For years his good work kept our political system on a straight and honest path. He will be missed, but his influence and impact will be felt by our state for years to come,” Romney said.

U.S. Rep. Mia Love, R-Utah, also tweeted, “My friend Dan Jones was an icon in Utah politics and he will be missed. My sincere condolences to his wonderful family and friends.” The Utah Republican Party tweeted, “We’re sorry to hear of the passing of Dan Jones. We, too, offer our sincere condolences to his wife, Pat, and their family at this difficult time.” 

“Dan was a remarkable man, in Utah’s political arena, and also as an educator, policymaker and influencer who readily shared his wisdom and passion with everyone he met,” said Derek Miller, president and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber in a prepared statement.

As a professor at the UofU, Jones conducted his first survey in 1959 and co-founded Dan Jones & Associates with his wife in 1980. In addition to his educational and political careers, he was also a captain in the U.S. Army. 

Pat and Dan Jones have seven children and 16 grandchildren. He was buried at the Mountain View Cemetery in Cottonwood Heights following his funeral last on Nov. 10.{/mprestriction}