I have read various articles in the Deseret News about a lot of sad and depressing news during 2020. I think it is high time for some uplifting commentary. Gov. Gary Herbert is retiring as governor of Utah on Jan. 4, 2021. That will also be the 125th anniversary of “Utah Statehood Day.” I think it’s important that we show gratitude to the governor who has governed Utah with dignity and grace from 2009-2021.
Gov. Gary Herbert assumed the reins of leadership when then-Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. stepped down to become ambassador. Gov. Herbert had to formulate policy from the depths of the Great Recession to dealing with COVID-19 and everything in between — from fires, floods, budget woes, school funding, trade missions, Utah’s economic “inland port” and jobs, as well as the chairmanship of the National Governors’ Association in 2015-16.
It takes more than a politician to do all that. It takes a true “statesman.” I’ve been privileged to speak with Gov. Herbert some 62 times during his gubernatorial tenure. When I had a concern, he gave me his full attention. He’s a dedicated public servant.
James Marples
Provo