Trump-backed mayor loses to moderate in Utah primary for Mitt Romney's senate seat

In a crowded Republican primary race, U.S. Representative John Curtis, R-Utah, emerged victorious tonight, securing the nomination for Utah’s open U.S. Senate seat and positioning himself to replace outgoing U.S. Senator Mitt Romney.

Curtis’s win comes amid a competitive field that included challengers like Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs, who garnered attention with a strong endorsement from former President Donald Trump, and former Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson, who campaigned with the backing of Utah Governor Spencer Cox.

Curtis, known for his moderate conservatism and proactive approach to climate change, campaigned on a platform of unity and pragmatic governance. His victory underscores Utah Republicans’ preference for a candidate who balances traditional conservative values with a forward-thinking agenda.

The primary campaign highlighted deep divisions within the Utah GOP, reflecting broader debates over the party’s direction and relationship with Trump. Curtis’s ability to appeal to a broad spectrum of voters—from staunch conservatives to independents—was a pivotal factor in his win.

Looking ahead, Curtis faces Democratic nominee Caroline Gleich in the general election. Gleich is a prominent environmental activist and mountaineer.

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The general election campaign is expected to focus on environmental policy, with Gleich advocating for bold action on climate change and Curtis promoting market-based solutions to reduce emissions without compromising economic growth.

Utah, historically a Republican stronghold, has not elected a Democratic senator since 1970, according to the Associated Press.

Jeremy Yurow is a politics reporting fellow based in Hawaii for the USA TODAY Network. You can reach him at JYurow@gannett.com or on X, formerly Twitter @JeremyYurow