Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz and numerous state lawmakers showed their official endorsement for former President Donald Trump’s reelection on Monday.
In the Utah Capitol rotunda on Monday afternoon, Schultz, R-Hooper, stood alongside 14 of his colleagues, proudly holding an endorsement letter. The letter, written by the speaker and signed by more than 100 legislators and officials from across the state, served as a testament to Schultz’s broad support.
“Now, it is more crucial than ever for the United States to have a leader who can steer us towards our fundamental values and a future that is more secure,” states the letter. “Therefore, we officially declare our endorsement for the second term of President Donald J. Trump.”
The document highlights the Supreme Court nominations made by the former president, his strong stance on border security, his “realistic” approach to foreign policy, and his successful track record in the economy. These factors demonstrate that Trump actively advocated for common-sense, conservative principles that resonate with the people of Utah.
In his letter’s conclusion, Schultz highlights the contrasting approaches of Trump and President Joe Biden towards states’ rights and energy policy. These have been significant themes during the 2024 legislative session, which is set to conclude on Friday.
According to Schultz, it is crucial to have a president who can return power to the states and the people, as Utah is currently facing significant encroachment from the federal government.
“The policies of the current administration are unrealistic, unreliable, and unattainable, and their consequences will be felt for generations. President Trump, on the other hand, is a leader who can steer us in the right direction, ensuring energy independence, state land sovereignty, and economic stability for our state and nation.”
The endorsement is supported by a diverse group of officials, including state Attorney General Sean Reyes, Senate President Stuart Adams, R-Layton, five other senators, 19 representatives, Schultz, and 76 county and city officials.
In a recent development, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley received an endorsement from a prestigious group of individuals. Notably, Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson, first lady Abby Cox, and esteemed business leaders, along with state lawmakers such as Senate Majority Leader Evan Vickers, R-Cedar City, Senate Majority Whip Ann Millner, R-Ogden, and House Majority Assistant Whip Casey Snider, R-Paradise, have all voiced their support for Haley. This endorsement highlights the significant backing she has garnered from influential figures in various sectors of society.
Haley is set to visit Utah on Wednesday to attend a forum at the Gary R. Herbert Institute at Utah Valley University’s Noorda Center.
In the summer of 2023, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis received endorsements from 17 state lawmakers, including Adams. However, DeSantis ultimately decided to drop out of the race on January 21 after securing a distant second place to Trump in the Iowa caucuses.
Haley, who previously held the position of United Nations ambassador under Trump, is the sole remaining Republican contender against Trump. She was defeated by the former president with a margin of 54% to 43% in New Hampshire, and by 60% to 40% in her home state of South Carolina.
Trump currently holds 110 delegates, while Haley has 20. To secure the Republican Party’s nomination, a candidate must accumulate 1,215 delegates. Super Tuesday, taking place on March 5, will allocate nearly 900 delegates.