Gov. Spencer Cox and members of congressional delegation push for party unity: “We are not a selfish party ... and it’s time to act like it,” Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said.
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox told the 1,904 delegates in attendance at the Utah Republican Party’s Organizing Convention on Saturday that they need to spend more time volunteering and coming together.
Cox, and Sen. Mitt Romney received boos and obvious disapproval at moments from some in attendance, but they and other political leaders continued to emphasize the need for unity as the state convention to select a new party leader got underway.
“Government was never designed to solve all of our problems,” Cox said. “If we want smaller government, we need bigger people.”
He encouraged Utah’s GOP to engage in better behaviors — “instead of protesting at the home of a local health care leader,” serve at the local food bank; and “instead of listening to another talking head on some radio or news program,” engage a new neighbor in uplifting conversation.
Cox touted some of the state’s accomplishments amid erratic boos and shouts from passionate republicans in attendance, including low unemployment, kids in school the greatest number of days, and a stellar economy despite the ongoing pandemic and the state’s reaction to it.
He said, “I know some of you hate me for some of the decisions that have been made,” but he encouraged all to come together.
“We are not a selfish party ... and it’s time to act like it,” Cox said on Saturday. The newly elected governor, who’s approval ratings have continued to climb throughout his months-long administration, said he’s made good on many of his campaign promises, including cutting taxes, cutting regulations and dealing with the pandemic.
He said that at the end of this school year, students will no longer be required to wear face masks, drawing strong positive reaction from the crowd.
“And there will be no more masks this fall. That is done,” Cox said to widespread applause.
The crowd at the Maverick Center in West Valley City turned on Sen. Mitt Romney when he appeared on stage, to the point of having to be told by outgoing party chairman Derek Brown to “be respectful.”
“Aren’t you embarrassed,” Romney chided, adding that he knows some people don’t like him.
“I’ve expressed my mind as I believe is right and I’ve followed my conscience as I believe is right,” he said, also calling himself “an old-fashioned Republican.”
“If we divide our party, we’re going to be a losing party,” Romney said. “The only way we’re going to win is by coming together.”
Sen. Mike Lee, as well as Representatives Chris Stewart, Blake Moore and Burgess Owens also addressed the crowd, garnering strong support as they expressed pride for the Republican Party.
“We love our country, God, family and respect women and authority,” Owens said, prior to denouncing racism and bigotry.
Lee thanked the crowd for being there.
“It’s a sign that you have faith in our future ... that you’re optimistic about our future,” he said before criticizing U.S. President Joe Biden for increasing American dependence on government, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for being “all about the control and not much about the disease.”
Biden this past week addressed the nation and announced growth in government programs that would total trillions of dollars, drawing criticism from Republicans and concern from some Democrats worried about the cost.
Stewart, who wasn’t at the convention, had members of his staff talk about his accomplishments. They played video and radio messages from Stewart, after emphasizing that the congressman hopes Americans can debate and disagree, but respectfully.
“I am troubled by the thunder of contempt that surrounds us,” Stewart said, adding that such contempt “is tearing at the fabric of our democracy.” He said people need to “speak with kindness, disagree with respect and listen” to others.
Freshman Rep. Blake Moore thanked the many who put him on the political path, then outlined his priorities — “military, public lands and county assistance,” while pushing to bring down federal spending.
And, Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes, who also endured a mixed reaction from the crowd, said he has withstood various attempts from “cancel culture” to shut him down.
“I’m still here, fighting for you,” he said.
Saturday’s convention aims to elect a new party chairperson, vice chairperson, secretary and treasurer, as the current leadership is moving on.
This story will be updated.
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