Gov. Spencer Cox (R) is the projected winner of Utah’s gubernatorial race over state Rep. Brian King (D), in keeping with The Hill/Choice Desk HQ.
His victory comes after the incumbent narrowly received the GOP major earlier this 12 months, with out an endorsement from the Utah Republican Social gathering. His challenger on the time, Phil Lyman, obtained that assist as an alternative.
The governor, who has been thought of too reasonable by some within the social gathering, was booed throughout his remarks on the state’s GOP conference. Political consultants have steered social gathering representatives within the Beehive State choose their candidates largely based mostly off their assist for former President Trump within the White Home race.
The Utah Republican stated he hasn’t voted for a serious social gathering presidential candidate since 2012.
Cox, earlier this 12 months, stated he wouldn’t solid his vote for the previous president, arguing that each events could be making a “huge mistake” by paving a path for a rematch between Trump and President Biden. However, simply days earlier than Biden withdrew from the race, the governor seemingly reversed his stance and endorsed the GOP presidential nominee.
He additionally got here below scrutiny earlier this 12 months for utilizing images of Trump at a wreath-laying ceremony in Arlington Nationwide Cemetary as a part of a marketing campaign e mail. In line with federal legislation, marketing campaign or election-related actions are prohibited inside the cemetery.
Cox was first elected to succeed former Gov. Gary Herbert (R) in 2020, successful greater than 60 p.c of the vote over his Democratic challenger.
He beforehand served as lieutenant governor and as a state lawmaker.
