At a debate two weeks before the primary election, incumbent Gov. Spencer Cox and state Rep. Phil Lyman presented contrasting views on Utah’s government. The debate highlighted their policy positions on issues such as illegal immigration, abortion, affordable housing, eliminating the state income tax, and the potential return of the Olympics to Salt Lake City in 2034. Cox and Lyman differed on approaches to these issues, with Cox emphasizing state control over abortion and legal immigration, while Lyman advocated for a more aggressive stance on illegal immigration and market-driven solutions to housing affordability. Both candidates were open to eliminating Utah’s state income tax but disagreed on bringing back the Olympics. Cox supported the idea for economic benefits, while Lyman expressed concerns about the strain on infrastructure and costs. Following the debate, the candidates addressed topics such as election integrity, with Cox emphasizing the security of Utah’s elections and Lyman calling for more transparency in the election process. Both candidates pledged to accept the results of the primary election. Cox expressed his support for family access to in vitro fertilization (IVF) despite the recent ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court that embryos are considered children under state law, putting the future of IVF in uncertainty.
He hailed IVF as a remarkable technology that allows families who may not otherwise have the opportunity to have a child, to do so. Cox assured that he would veto any bills from the state legislature that align with the decision of Alabama’s high court.
The candidates’ positions on IVF were not fully disclosed during the briefing, as it concluded before the reporter could inquire about Mr. Lyman’s stance.
Both candidates seemed relieved that the debate was devoid of drama, with Cox commenting that a good debate should focus on policy rather than theatrics. Lyman described the atmosphere as tame and expressed interest in discussing the truth.
Despite their policy disagreements, Lyman commended Cox for his handling of the questions during the debate, emphasizing that his actions are not driven by political agendas.
The primary winner will compete against state Rep. Brian King (D) on November 5th. Republican candidates have historically been favored in Utah, as the state has not had a Democratic governor since 1985.
This report includes contributions from John Haughey and The Associated Press.
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