Happy Friday from #OneUtah, a weekly update from the office of Gov. Spencer J. Cox. Here’s your recap of what we did this week, what's on the horizon, and more. Thank you for subscribing!

Disagree Better – Democracy Dialogue series

In a recent conversation as part of the University of Virginia's Democracy Dialogue series, Gov. Cox and Gov. Phil Murphy addressed the growing need for Americans to engage in healthier political disagreements. Part of Cox's "Disagree Better" initiative, the discussion emphasized how polarization is not only exhausting the American public but also fueling dangerous consequences. The governors, from opposite sides of the political aisle, explored how both leaders and citizens can work to reduce division, promote productive debate, and encourage solutions over gridlock. This dialogue underscored the importance of elected officials fostering respectful disagreement and seeking common ground, with the hope that such conversations can contribute to more effective governance.

Republican Governors Association 

Gov. Cox joined fellow Republican governors this week at the Republican Governors Association to discuss key issues including energy, healthcare innovation and the importance of small government. He highlighted the shared commitment to advancing these priorities across the nation and noted the continued admiration for Utah — its people, policies and thriving economy.

Nebo Power Plant Tour

This week, Lt. Gov. Henderson visited the Nebo Power Plant in Payson to gain deeper insights into the challenges facing electric utilities and explore ways to accelerate energy production as part of Operation Gigawatt. During the tour, she was briefed on UAMPS' plans to diversify its energy portfolio, with a focus on expanding into geothermal and nuclear resources to meet growing demand and strengthen the state’s energy future.

Honoring Our Incredible DPS Workers 

We are thankful to the men and women of the Department of Public Safety for their service and dedication to making our communities safe. At last night's DPS Awards Banquet, Lt. Gov. Henderson commended the officers for their commitment to public safety and highlighted several of the department's recent accomplishments, including the Forensics Bureau's expanded DNA analysis services, SIAC's national recognition for their cybersecurity leadership, the Division of Emergency Management EMAC deployments and the State Bureau of Investigation dramatic reduction in youth alcohol sales, cutting the rate to just 4%.

Congratulations to everyone for their hard work and the positive impact they make on our great state.

Austrian Medal of Honor 

In a special ceremony, the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity’s Franz Kolb was awarded the prestigious Decoration of Honor in Gold by Ambassador Schneebauer of the Republic of Austria.

Franz has been a vital supporter of Utah's diplomatic efforts since 2002, serving as honorary consul and working closely with the state’s Center for International Business and Diplomacy for over three decades. His leadership has facilitated more than 50 trade missions and countless international delegations to Utah. Recognized globally for his service, Franz has received honors from Hungary, Portugal and Germany, but this award from his home country of Austria is especially meaningful. We are grateful for Franz's dedication to advancing Utah’s global connections and bringing the world to our state.

Teens & Tech

Gov. Cox joined Brad Wilcox of the Institute for Family Studies for an insightful discussion on the "Utah Family Miracle." The conversation focused on how Utah’s unique culture and policies foster strong marriages, family stability, resilient institutions and close-knit communities. The discussion also delved into the impact of phones and social media on youth mental health. Utah’s proactive approach includes holding social media companies accountable, removing phones from schools and empowering parents to take a more active role in their children's well-being.

Rural Report

🌡️ The Utah Trust Lands Administration recently approved a new development near Snow Canyon and authorized new geothermal exploration in Beaver County

🩺 On National Rural Health Day, the Utah Department of Health and Human Services celebrated 13 healthcare providers with Impact Awards for helping increase access to care in Utah's rural areas.

ICYMI

• Utah takes the top spot for volunteering in America according to AmeriCorps' latest Volunteering and Civic Life in America research.
   
• Lt. Gov. Henderson met with representatives from Austria, the Netherlands and Kazakhstan as we continue to strengthen ties across the world.
   
• Starting this week, Utah State Liquor Stores are offering customers the option to round up purchases to the nearest dollar to help alleviate homelessness statewide.

• Nov. 25 - Lt. Gov. Henderson will meet with the State Board of Canvassers to certify the results of Utah’s elections.
   
• Nov. 25 - Governor Spencer Cox will join former Rep. David Dreier in a roundtable discussion at Claremont McKenna College’s Dreier RoundTable, an initiative founded to engage leaders in civil discourse and inspire students to embrace diverse perspectives and meaningful dialogue.
   
• Nov. 26 - The Lt. Gov. is looking forward to her visit to the Strider Intel facility.
   
• Nov. 28 - Happy Thanksgiving!

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