SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Gov. Spencer Cox defended his record against a primary challenger in a debate Tuesday after the GOP incumbent was recently booed by Republican convention delegates who argued he is too moderate.
Despite failing to secure his party's nod, Cox is considered the overwhelming favorite among Republican voters statewide. He used Tuesday's televised debate to highlight his accomplishments uninterrupted after going off-script back in April to address his harsh reception from delegates.
The state GOP convention often favors farther-right candidates and expectedly endorsed challenger Phil Lyman, a former county commissioner turned state legislator who embraced false claims of election fraud following the 2020 presidential election. Cox already had qualified for the June 25 primary before the convention by gathering signatures.
The Republican primary winner will face Democratic nominee Brian King, a state representative, in November. The GOP candidate is heavily favored to win in a deeply red state that hasn't had a Democrat in the governor's office since 1985.
In a mostly cordial debate heavy on policy specifics, Lyman insinuated that Cox has been a submissive leader and pitched himself as the stronger alternative.
''I'm not against polite words, but there's a point where we have to use aggressive rhetoric,'' Lyman said. ''Utah should have a governor who stands up for the people, who speaks frankly, who is understood.''
Cox argued he's been assertive and successful without being brash.
''I'm so proud of the way we have been able to conduct ourselves, the way we treat people with dignity and respect while also passing some of the most important and conservative legislation anywhere in the country,'' he said.