SALT LAKE CITY -- Former House Speaker Becky Lockhart is critically ill with an undisclosed medical issue, Sen. Curt Bramble confirmed Tuesday night.
Lockhart's family sent a statement to the members of the Utah House of Representatives and Senate informing them of Lockhart's medical situation. At this time, the family is requesting privacy.
Lockhart, a Republican representing District 64, announced she would not run for reelection and applied for the position of State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Lockhart has served in the legislature for 16 years. She was the first woman to serve as the Speaker of the House.
Lockhart is a mother of three children.
Speaker-elect Greg Hughes visited Speaker Becky Lockhart and her family at the hospital Wednesday morning and issued the following statement:
“I’m shocked and saddened for my good friend Becky Lockhart and her wonderful family. Anyone who knows her knows Becky’s a fighter. Her spirit and tenacity shown over and over again on Capitol Hill will serve her well at this time. We respectfully request that the public and members of the media honor the family’s request for privacy. Our thoughts and prayers with them during this difficult time.”
In coordination with Utah State Senator Curt Bramble, who is acting as the family’s spokesman, Speaker-elect Hughes will provide updates as they become available.
