As surrounding states in the West continue to trend Democratic, will Utah remain a red stronghold? Or will it eventually become overtaken in an emerging sea of blue?
That’s what’s at stake for Utah Republicans in the race for the Utah GOP’s next chairperson, a position largely off the radar of a public consumed by COVID-19 updates and the promise of better weather. Yet when delegates make their selection from five candidates at this weekend’s state convention, it will help determine the future of their party and its influence on Utah politics, said Derek Brown, the state GOP’s outgoing chairman, who announced last month he wouldn’t be seeking another term to spend more time with his family.
| Updated: 7:38 p.m.
On Saturday, Republicans are expected to descend on the Maverik Center in West Valley City for the Utah GOP’s annual state convention. It’s the first major in-person political event since the coronavirus pandemic brought public gatherings in Utah to a halt last year.
Delegates will chose new leadership to guide the party for the next two years. They’ll also hear from top Republican officials including Gov. Spencer Cox and the state’s congressional delegation.
Speaking of Congress, this will be the first time Sen. Mitt Romney will make an appearance in front of party activists since he voted twice to impeach former President Donald Trump. Delegates will consider a resolution to censure Romney during the convention.
Boise State Public Radio Rep. Aaron von Ehlinger (R-Lewiston) during the first day of an ethics hearing into allegations he raped a volunteer staff member.
The Idaho House ethics committee heard from more than a dozen witnesses Wednesday as it considers expelling a freshman Republican lawmaker
Rep. Aaron von Ehlinger (R-Lewiston) has not been charged with a crime and the committee is solely considering whether his behavior constitutes “conduct unbecoming” of a legislator.
The committee then must issue a recommendation to the full House, which would vote on any potential expulsion or sanction.
Those witnesses who appeared at the Idaho Capitol include von Ehlinger himself and the 19-year-old victim, who testified behind a black cloth.
Vice President Kamala Harris will come to Cincinnati Friday, touting President Biden s plans outlined in his speech Wednesday night.
The White House hasn t yet released specific details of the visit but confirmed Sen. Sherrod Brown, a Democrat from Cleveland, will moderate a roundtable discussion about public transit.
The roundtable will be held at the University of Cincinnati 1819 Innovation Hub from noon to 1 p.m., according to a release sent from Brown s office.
Officials with Cincinnati Metro confirmed that at least part of the itinerary will include a discussion about the sales tax levy voters approved in May to pay for better bus service and infrastructure improvements throughout the county.