Utah’s U.S. Representative John Curtis has secured a victory in the U.S. Senate race, succeeding Mitt Romney after a decisive win over Democratic opponent Caroline Gleich. Curtis, known for his work in climate policies as the leader of the Conservative Climate Caucus, defeated Gleich in a race that focused on each candidate’s stance on environmental issues.
Curtis, who began his political career as a county-level Democratic Party official, is seen as a moderate in Utah’s political landscape. He plans to bring his own brand of conservatism to the Senate, with a focus on climate change and bringing Republicans to the table on environmental issues.
His victory was celebrated at a watch party in Provo, where Curtis was once mayor, surrounded by his family and supporters. Mitt Romney congratulated Curtis on his win, highlighting his integrity and commitment to representing the interests of Utahns.
Curtis’ win also marks a shift in Utah’s political landscape, with moderate Republicans like him prevailing in statewide elections. The state has not elected a Democrat to the Senate since 1970, and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a significant voting bloc in Utah, have been hesitant to embrace Trump and his allies.
In addition to Curtis, Republican Mike Kennedy also won election to the open U.S. House seat, succeeding Curtis in the 3rd Congressional District. Kennedy, who has served in the state Legislature since 2013, will begin his first term in Congress. Both Curtis and Kennedy’s victories signal a continuation of Republican dominance in Utah politics.
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