Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As the year draws to a close, I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. This season is always a special time to pause, reflect and enjoy the spirit of the holidays with loved ones. I hope you can find time to relax and embrace the joy and meaning this time of year brings.
Looking back on the past year, I’m proud of the work we’ve accomplished together and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. It continues to be an honor to serve our community, and I am committed to working hard on your behalf as we enter the new year.
In preparation for the 2025 legislative session, I recently received my committee assignments for the upcoming year. I am excited to share that I will serve as the chair of the Senate Government Operations and Political Subdivisions Committee and serve on the Senate Transportation, Public Utilities, Energy and Technology Committee, the Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environmental Quality Appropriations Subcommittee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Appropriations Subcommittee.
Powering Utah’s Future: A Look Ahead at 2025
Utah’s incredible success story has propelled our state forward in many ways.
Over the past six years, the Senate has delivered meaningful results that empower families, strengthen communities and build a brighter future for Utah. From historic teacher pay increases and doubling education funding to over $1.3 billion in tax cuts, we’ve prioritized education, affordability and opportunity. Nearly $1 billion has been invested in water conservation alongside innovative energy solutions to ensure independence and low costs. We’ve also worked to protect children from harmful social media, helping Utah remain a state where families thrive.
Looking ahead to 2025, we’re focusing on "Powering Utah's Future" by addressing today’s needs while preparing for tomorrow. Our priorities include advancing energy independence, investing in students and teachers, ensuring a sustainable water supply, creating affordable housing, fostering innovation and preserving Utah’s exceptional quality of life.
The 2025 General Session begins on January 21. I encourage you to stay engaged and actively participate as we work together to build a prosperous future for future generations.
Pre-session survey
I value your input, and it’s important to me to hear about your priorities and concerns as your legislator. In the coming weeks, you’ll receive a pre-session survey, which is a great way to share your feedback before the 2025 General Session begins. Please be on the lookout for it–I look forward to hearing from you!
Confirming Utah’s Newest Judge
It is the Senate’s great responsibility to provide advice and consent on various appointments made by the governor. During the December interim, we met to confirm several appointments, including one new judge—Cameron Beech, to Utah’s 8th District Court. Judge Beech has shown exceptional expertise and a strong dedication to public service. I am grateful for his willingness to serve our state in his new capacity. Watch his confirmation here.
Utah Trailblazer Takes Her Place in National Statuary Hall
Dr. Martha Hughes Cannon made it to Washington, D.C., where her statue will represent Utah at the National Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center. A true trailblazer, Dr. Cannon broke barriers as a suffragist, physician, state senator, wife and mother. In fact, 50 years before the 19th Amendment was ratified, Utah women were voting, and in 1896, Dr. Cannon became the first female state senator in the nation. Her legacy continues to shape Utah and our country in profound and lasting ways. I’m excited for many to be inspired by her leadership and learn from her experiences. Read more here.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous holiday season filled with peace, happiness and safe travels. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Best,
Ron Winterton
