Utah Governor Spencer Cox Addresses Civility and National Divisions
Utah Governor Spencer Cox recently discussed the state of national divisions and the importance of civility, referencing the September death of activist Charlie Kirk. The governor has highlighted his belief that politics is increasingly replacing religion in society.
Appeal for Civility
Following the shooting incident involving Charlie Kirk in Utah in September, Governor Cox briefed the public on the suspect's arrest. He then issued a public appeal for individuals to reconsider their engagement with politics, stating, "I would encourage people to log off, turn off, touch grass, hug a family member, go out and do good in your community."
In an interview with NPR before Thanksgiving, Cox elaborated on the aftermath of the Kirk shooting in the context of a divided nation. He also discussed related issues, including nuclear power and artificial intelligence.
Public Reception and Continued Concerns
Governor Cox reported a positive reception to his September message, stating, "We have to decide: Is this an off-ramp?" He cited instances of individuals reportedly reevaluating their lives after hearing his remarks and noted that his comments had reached audiences internationally.
Cox, a conservative Republican, has made "disagreeing better" a central theme of his political approach, advocating for civil treatment of political opponents. He emphasized that the U.S. Constitution necessitates collaboration and coalition-building among differing groups. He expressed concern that individuals are seeking tribal affiliations in politics, which he believes is supplanting traditional religious roles.
Stance on Political Accountability
Regarding calls to investigate liberal groups, Cox stated that groups encouraging violence should be held accountable. However, he noted that Democrats he consulted after the Kirk shooting were appalled by the event. He advocated focusing on the responsibility of the individual perpetrator, aligning with his faith's emphasis on individual agency and decision-making.
Engagement with Critics and Trump Endorsement
Governor Cox attended the first gathering of Charlie Kirk's organization, Turning Point USA, after Kirk's death. He faced initial boos from a segment of the audience. Cox had previously been criticized by Kirk in 2022 for vetoing legislation banning transgender athletes from girls' sports in schools. Cox explained his veto at the event, stating the legislation targeted a small number of athletes, was inadequately developed, and likely to result in litigation. Following his explanation, the audience reportedly applauded.
Cox did not vote for Donald Trump in the 2016 or 2020 elections. However, he endorsed Trump in 2024 after an incident in Butler, Pennsylvania, which Cox described as a "miracle" of survival, believing only Trump could unify the nation. When asked about the realization of national unity, Cox stated he believed Trump would assess that it has not occurred. He justified his endorsement by citing the importance of maintaining a relationship with the president for himself and for Utahns.
Cox also mentioned that Trump contacted him after the Kirk shooting, praising his appeal for unity, despite Trump's perceived different approach to the issue.