Republican contenders for Senator Romney’s vacancy discuss alliance with Trump

During Monday’s primary debate, three out of four Utah Republicans competing for Sen. Mitt Romney’s seat emphasized their loyalty to former President Donald Trump, while the front runner appeared willing to challenge party leadership.

Utah’s upcoming senate race is expected to test Trump’s influence in the state, which has been hesitant to fully embrace him. The endorsement given by Trump on the day of the convention helped a local official secure the party nomination, but it remains to be seen how much weight it carries with voters statewide.

Romney’s retirement from the Senate opens the door for more conservative candidates to step in. Voters will decide whether they want a successor whose politics align with Romney’s moderate stance or with Utah’s other senator, Trump ally Mike Lee.

While Rep. John Curtis is considered the favorite for the June 25 primary, convention victor Trent Staggs and former Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson, both Trump supporters, could potentially shift Utah politics further to the right in the post-Romney era.

Staggs, in particular, emphasized his alignment with Trump and criticized Curtis for not endorsing Trump’s reelection bid. The congressman, however, stated that he would support the party nominee, which is now Trump, but stopped short of a full endorsement.

Wilson, endorsed by Gov. Spencer Cox, highlighted his impact on Utah as a state legislative leader, focusing on tax cuts and budget negotiations. He also underscored his plans to address federal overspending and immigration policies.

During the debate, Curtis defended his record and distanced himself from hardliners in the party. He highlighted his experience in Congress and positioned himself as the candidate who understands the inner workings of Capitol Hill.

Staggs, on the other hand, garnered support by aligning with Trump and securing endorsements from his allies. The mayor of Riverton, he entered the race before Romney announced his retirement, and despite his convention victory, success in the primary is not guaranteed.

The winner of the Republican Senate primary will face Democrat Caroline Gleich in November, as Utah has not elected a Democratic senator in over five decades.

In other races, Rep. Celeste Maloy defended her brief congressional tenure in a debate with challenger Colby Jenkins. Jenkins, endorsed by Mike Lee, emphasized his support for Trump’s return to the White House, while Maloy defended her bipartisan votes.

Republican candidates for governor, attorney general, and an open U.S. House seat will also face off in upcoming debates.