In light of a pandemic and racial unrest, Utah is looking for a leader who can lead them through these hardships and take control. As of right now there is 1 democrat and 4 republicans running for governor in the 2020 Utah gubernatorial race.

The Candidates

Chris Peterson

To start, there is Chris Peterson, democratic nominee for governor. He is a professor of law at the University of Utah, and previously worked for both the U.S. Department of Defense and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. He believes in helping Utah on a smaller level by helping build up small businesses and local family farms, and on larger issues such as promoting clean air in Utah and providing more funding for Utah’s school systems.

Spencer Cox

In no particular order, the first republican running for Utah’s governor is Spencer Cox. Spencer grew up in Utah and currently serves as lieutenant governor, and previously served as a councilman, mayor, and state representative. With his history in law and politics, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that he strongly supports the constitution, specifically citizens’ second amendment rights. Similar to Peterson, he also supports increased funding for Utah’s school systems. He also believes in preserving Utah by supporting its rural area and managing public lands fairly.

Greg Hughes

Next is Greg Hughes, former speaker for the Utah House of Representatives. Hughes is a small business owner who moved to Utah for college and didn’t leave. He is a strong supporter of the second amendment similar to Cox and also wants to support veterans and their families, which shows by his creation of the Utah Department of Veterans’ and military affairs.

Jon Huntsman Jr.

Third is Jon Huntsman jr. who has participated greatly in national politics, serving as both U.S. ambassador to China and U.S. ambassador to Russia. He has also served as governor of Utah before. Like Peterson and Cox, Huntsman wants to create better support for Utah schools. He also has a similar stance to air quality as Peterson, wanting to improve air quality. One area Huntsman wants to focus on is mental health and making sure that people get the help that they need.

Thomas Wright

Last but not least is Thomas Wright. Born and raised in Utah, Wright currently lives there with his wife and children. He owns a self built reality business. He recently represented Utah in the Republican National Committee. He stands with most of the other candidates wanting to increase funding for Utah schools. Included in funding for Utah schools he believes that mental health should be focused on in schools. He also is behind the second amendment, similar to Cox and Hughes.