Herbert, Cox announce details of upcoming gubernatorial transition of power
(KUTV) — Gov. Gary R. Herbert joined Lt. Gov. Spencer J. Cox and Senator Deidre M. Henderson, recently elected as Utah’s next governor and lieutenant governor, to announce details related to their upcoming transition.
The gubernatorial race in Utah was called by the Associated Press almost as soon as the polls closed in Utah. Cox maintained a lead over Democratic candidate Chris Peterson, who conceded the race Tuesday night.
As of Wednesday evening, more than 64% of ballots counted in Utah were for Cox and his running mate Henderson, a Republican state senator from Spanish Fork.
“Over the past seven years, Gov. Herbert has shown me up close what good governance looks like and how critical it is to always put Utahns first in our decision making. I am immensely grateful for his mentorship and will forever cherish the years I have spent at his side,” said Cox.
As Lt. Gov.-elect Henderson and I traveled to every corner of the state during our campaign, we learned a lot about what Utahns want and expect from their government. We will never forget those experiences and pledge to follow through with our commitment to improve upon the successes of the past. We are deeply humbled by the trust voters have shown us, and we are honored to move forward with fresh eyes as we transition toward governing.
Henderson, who has served as state senator representing District 7 since 2013, said she is honored and excited to join Cox in developing the administration’s leadership team and policies, and working closely with state legislators to craft solutions that will strengthen Utah families and expand opportunities for all.
“Utahns are known throughout the country as can-do people who do not shy away from opportunities to build and innovate,” Henderson said. “I look forward to working with Gov.-elect Cox to bring Utahns together and improve quality of life for all.”
Cox announced two key staff positions on Thursday. Jon Pierpont, former executive director of the Utah Department of Workforce Services, will be appointed into the joint role of chief of staff and chief operating officer beginning in January. Jennifer Napier-Pearce, former executive editor of The Salt Lake Tribune, will be appointed as senior advisor to the governor and director of communications.
“Jon and Jennifer are talented individuals who are dedicated to the ideals Utahns hold dear. They have the experience and judgment needed to lead our team into the future, and to confront head on the challenges we face as a state,” said Cox. “They are the right people for these important leadership roles. I can’t wait for them to get to work for Utah.”
Cox announced he has been working with a small group of volunteers to coordinate an effective transition process. Lynne Ward, former deputy chief of staff for former Utah Gov. Olene Walker, and Steve Starks, CEO of the Larry H. Miller Group of Companies, will serve as co-chairs of the transition effort. Other members include Austin Cox, Natalie Gochnour and Rich McKeown.
Cox and Henderson also announced that they are assembling a team of more than 100 community leaders with broad expertise to review all state government agencies and provide recommendations related to major policy priorities, including education and public health.
Leading and participating in various committee efforts are Pamela Atkinson, Bonnie Jean Beesley, Mark Bouchard, Jeff Burningham, Lisa-Michele Church, Amanda Covington, Sophia DiCaro, Kristen Edwards, Francine Giani, Mia Love, Susan Madsen, Crystal Maggelet, Lavanya Mahate, Steve Neeleman, Val Oveson, Jon Pike, Lester Rojas, Byron Russell, Aimee Winder Newton, Heidi Walker and Thomas Wright. Others will be enlisted over the next several days.
Herbert congratulated Cox and Henderson and pledged his commitment to an orderly transition of power.
“It has been a privilege working alongside Spencer these past seven years as we’ve built a resilient economy and tackled some of the state’s most pressing challenges,” Herbert said. “The peaceful transition of power is a hallmark of our society, and I will do everything in my power to assist as our governor-elect and lieutenant governor-elect begin to forge their path. In the coming months there is of course much more to do, and we will sprint to the finish line. I’m confident that the state will be in good hands when my term as governor ends.”
Cox and Henderson, along with other statewide elected officials, will be formally sworn in on Inauguration Day, Monday, Jan. 4, 2021.
Soon-to-be 18th governor of Utah spoke with 2News anchor Mark Koelbel about the future of our state — specifically, education and the ongoing response to and recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.
Cox will succeed Herbert, who first took office in 2009 and decided not to run again this year. Herbert in May endorsed Cox, who became lieutenant governor in 2013, as his chosen successor.
