Friends and Neighbors,  

November has been a month of reflection, preparation and continued work on behalf of the people of Utah.  

Here in Utah, we take pride in our strong sense of community. Consistently ranked first in the nation for volunteerism, we’ve embraced gratitude and service as part of who we are. This holiday season, let’s continue that tradition by showing appreciation, giving back and treating one another with kindness.  

As we head into December, we are entering the final stretch before the 2026 legislative session. These next few weeks are important as we finalize bill drafts, review policy proposals and continue working toward legislation that protects families, strengthens our communities and supports Utah’s continued success. 

Protecting Utahns' Voices. Upholding the Constitution. Restoring Stability.  

As your elected representatives, our top priority is ensuring the long-term strength and stability of Utah’s constitutional institutions.  

It is deeply concerning that an unelected judge has overridden the Utah Constitution by imposing a map without any public input. Utahns were denied the opportunity to review the map, offer feedback or make their voices heard. 

The map didn’t even follow the advisory steps outlined in Proposition 4. Decisions that shape our representation should not be made behind closed doors or without public involvement. This isn’t about partisanship; it’s about protecting the integrity of the process and ensuring the people have a voice. 

This is a defining moment for Utah. One that calls for us to stand together in defense of the principles that make our state strong and safeguard the integrity of our republican process. This is not a power struggle. It is about protecting the voice of the people and upholding the constitutional responsibilities entrusted to our elected branches. The current redistricting challenge is about more than a single map; it is about reinforcing the constitutional framework that guides Utah and ensuring long-term stability. 

Both the legislative and executive branches are united in taking immediate steps to restore order and stability. Court delays have created uncertainty for communities, counties and candidates, and local election officials cannot plan effectively when maps are changed suddenly. Utahns deserve a process that is predictable and reliable. Our goal is to restore stability, protect the voice of the people and ensure that Utah’s future is governed by Utahns—not outside interests. 

Steps the Legislature is Taking 

• Immediately request that the Third District Court issue a final ruling, allowing an appeal to a higher court.  

• Appeal to the Utah Supreme Court.  

• Convene a Governor-called special session on December 9 to ensure our election system has the clarity it needs.  

Why This Matters 

• The current redistricting challenge isn’t just about one map; it’s about reinforcing the constitutional framework that guides our state. 

• Article IX of the Utah Constitution states,“...The Legislature shall divide the state into congressional, legislative, and other districts accordingly.” 

• Utahns deserve a stable, transparent and accountable process where each branch of government can fulfill its constitutional role. 

• Court delays and confusion have created uncertainty for communities, candidates and voters—something we cannot allow to continue and continue to be the best state in the nation. 

Looking Ahead 

• Our founders warned that the distinction between a republic and a democracy is the difference between order and chaos. Utah must remain a republic, governed by Utahns through transparent, constitutional processes. 

• We are preparing a constitutional amendment for the 2026 ballot to ensure that ballot initiatives cannot override the Utah Constitution in ways that create conflict or practical challenges. Utahns deserve clear, workable and accountable processes. 

• By putting Utahns first, we can continue to make our state the best place to live, work and grow a business. 

Our Commitment 

• The courts have introduced instability, missed deadlines and delayed essential processes but we will act to restore order. 

• Utah’s legislative and executive branches are fully aligned. We are working together to fix a problem created outside our constitutional framework. 

• As we move through the special session, pursue the appeal to the Utah Supreme Court and work to ensure timely action from the district court, our goal remains simple: protect the voice of the people. 

• Our focus is to keep Utah’s future in the hands of Utahns, protect stable governance and make certain that every Utahn has a fair voice in the Republic process. 

Last Interim of 2025 – Interim Highlights  

Utah’s Continued Success  Utahns make our state one of the best places to live, work and raise a family. Thanks to communities across the state, we continue to excel: 

• #1 Best State for the third consecutive year 

• #1 Best Economic Outlook for the 18th year in a row 

• Highest Volunteering 

• #2 Charitable State  

These achievements reflect the values, dedication and engagement of Utahns. They also show why listening to our communities matters, because your input helps shape policies that keep Utah thriving. 

Interim Meetings  Each month, we hold interim meetings to hear directly from Utahns, stakeholders and experts across the state. These discussions are critical because they: 

• Highlight the issues that matter most to communities 

• Give an early look at potential legislation 

• Provide a platform for the public to share their experiences and perspectives 

Turning Input into Action  What we hear during interim meetings isn’t just for discussion; it directly informs the work of committees and laws. Through these conversations: 

• Committees develop legislation and recommendations that reflect public input 

• Open bill files, begin drafting language and research topics 

By connecting Utahns’ feedback to the legislative process, we ensure that the laws we create are practical, effective and responsive to the needs of our communities and state. You can find a full list of bill files opened by the interim committees here. 

Olympic Logo 

The launch of the Utah 2034 transitional brand was an exciting milestone as Utah moves closer to welcoming the world once again through the Olympics. Utah 2034 will unite all 29 counties and communities across the state in this effort. Every Utahn will have the opportunity to be involved in such a historic moment, whether through volunteering, attending events or celebrating together as one state.  

Utah is known for collaboration and for achieving great things when we work together. Utah 2034 is the perfect opportunity to showcase that spirit to the world. 

Utah’s Newest Supreme Court Justice 

The Senate has the constitutional responsibility to provide advice and consent on various gubernatorial appointments. During the November interim, we met to confirm Judge John Nielsen as the newest justice on the Utah Supreme Court. The Supreme Court’s decisions have lasting impacts on our laws and everyday lives, which makes this a very significant appointment.  

Justice Nielsen’s background in appellate and constitutional law makes him well-suited for this important role. His career includes service as a judge in the Third District Court, work in the Utah Attorney General’s Office, experience in the Utah County Attorney’s Office and several years in private practice. He is widely regarded for his excellent legal writing and sharp legal mind, qualities that will serve the Court and the people of Utah well. I am grateful for his willingness to serve the people of Utah. Watch the confirmation proceedings here. 

Utah: Leading the Way in Aerospace and Defense 

Utah’s aerospace and defense sector is thriving, supporting jobs statewide and ranking as the nation's fastest-growing aerospace and defense ecosystem. This growth isn’t by chance, it’s the result of our exceptional talent, world-class universities and research labs, robust supply chains, abundant open-air space, a business-friendly climate and, most importantly, strong collaboration across our community.  

Earlier this month, nearly 3,000 leaders from across the country gathered in our capital city for the Zero Gravity Summit, hosted by 47G Utah Aerospace and Defense. The Summit was a powerful reminder of why Utah continues to earn its reputation as America’s Deep Tech Frontier. 

Utah is home to over 600 companies with government defense contracts and boasts a long-standing record of excellence in four key areas: defense technology, space, energy and advanced air mobility. Our state is a hub for innovation, serving as a key testing ground for emerging technologies. Highlights from the Summit included cutting-edge developments such as ElectraFly’s hybrid air vehicle and Hypercraft’s electric military EV, showcasing Utah’s ability to create solutions for both civilian and defense needs. 

As a state, we remain committed to advancing leadership in these critical industries. Utah isn’t just participating in the future; we are building it. 

Utah Trail Network 

Excited to share that the master plan for the Utah Trail Network is complete. This 3,100-mile system of connected paved trails will make it easier for Utahns to get around, stay active and connect with each other. 

The plan includes 3,100 miles of new paved trails. Once complete, 95 percent of Utah residents will live within one mile of a trail, making it simple to walk, bike or roll to work, school, parks and local businesses. 

The network will eventually link 208 towns and cities, 33 colleges and universities, 74 transit stations, six national parks and 25 state parks, giving more ways for Utahns to explore and enjoy the outdoors. 

In 2023, the Legislature created the Active Transportation Investment Fund to provide dedicated funding for projects, demonstrating a strong commitment to safe and accessible transportation for all. The Utah Department of Transportation worked with communities across the state to finalize the plan, which will be updated every four years. 

The Utah Trail Network is more than a trail system. It is a pathway to healthier communities, stronger connections and a more active future for all Utahns. Learn more here. 

Springville Art Contest 

I'm continually amazed by the creativity and talent of Utah's young artists. Students have the exciting opportunity to showcase their work in the Annual Utah All-State High School Art Show, hosted by the Springville Museum of Art. Those who qualify will have their pieces displayed in the museum, and the Utah Senate is honored to select distinguished winners who will receive scholarships. These outstanding artists will also be invited to the Capitol during the legislative session, where the Senate will formally recognize their achievements on the floor. If you or a high school student you know is interested in applying, more information can be found here.  

Col. Michael Rapich 

We recognize Col. Michael Rapich for his remarkable service to Utah. For over 30 years, Col. Rapich dedicated himself to protecting our communities and exemplifying the highest standards of law enforcement. 

An advocate for Zero Fatalities, he emphasized that traffic fatalities are preventable and that each Utahn can make a difference by driving safely. His leadership has not only saved lives but also inspired others to prioritize road safety. 

Col. Rapich represents the very best of a state trooper, serving selflessly, demonstrating unwavering commitment and making sacrifices alongside his family to protect our state. Behind every life saved, there are leaders like Col. Rapich working tirelessly to keep Utahns safe. 

Thank you, Col. Rapich, for your extraordinary service and steadfast dedication to our communities. 

Powering Utah’s Future  

Utah is leading the nation towards energy independence through our partnership with Hi Tech Solutions and Holtec International to build small modular reactors in Brigham City. This is more than an energy project; it is a long-term commitment to Utah’s future and the nation's security. The $750 million private investment will create more than 1,350 stable, high-paying jobs in manufacturing, construction and long-term operations, strengthening families and communities for years to come.  

Energy independence is essential to both our national security and economic prosperity. Utah is uniquely positioned to lead this effort, with a skilled workforce, strong industry partners and a commitment to reliable, affordable energy. Our schools and universities are preparing the next generation through education to career pathways that ensure Utah students are ready to fill the high-tech, high-skill jobs that will define our energy future.  

We are continuing to do what Utah does best, working together to solve challenges, create opportunity and build a more secure future. 

Delta Cargo Facility at Salt Lake City International Airport  Delta is investing $18 million to build a state-of-the-art cargo facility at Salt Lake City International Airport. The project transforms a former USPS building to replace outdated cargo operations and improve efficiency, expanding on Delta’s long-standing partnership with Utah. 

Why It Matters 

• This investment strengthens Utah’s role in the global supply chain. 

• Gives local companies the ability to grow and reach new markets across the country and around the world. 

• Supports job growth, creating new opportunities for Utah families.  Strengthens Utah’s economy for generations, ensuring our state remains a great place to live, work and build a business. 

Veterans Day  Veterans Day reminds us that liberty comes at a price, and the freedoms we enjoy today exist because generations of Americans have been willing to defend them. From the visionaries who founded our nation to the men and women who have worn our country’s uniform, their dedication and sacrifice have safeguarded our way of life. 

Utah’s veterans, like veterans across the nation, continue to strengthen our communities as neighbors, leaders and public servants. Their courage is part of a long legacy of Americans who have stood for freedom against those who seek power and control. 

To all the brave veterans of the United States of America: thank you for your service, your sacrifice and your unwavering commitment to our nation. Your contributions, past and present, will never be forgotten. 

As we enter the holidays, we hope each of you can spend meaningful time with those you love. May this season bring you peace and gratitude as we move into the new year. 

Best, 

Ron Winterton