SALT LAKE CITY — Politicians in Utah on both sides of the aisle were as stunned as the rest of the country after the extraordinary announcement on Sunday by President Joe Biden about his intent to bow out of the 2024 election.
“President Biden is one of the most transformational presidents in the history of our country. From leading our country through the COVID-19 pandemic, to supporting democracy abroad, to defending our reproductive freedoms and civil rights, the Biden-Harris Administration has led America through some of its darkest moments," said Utah Democratic Party Chair Diane Lewis.
Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson said she supported Biden's decision.
"Over the past four years President Biden has led our nation with dignity and decency. I am grateful for his leadership in the White House, his time as Vice President, and his 36 years of service in the Senate. His decision today is the right one for America and exemplifies the legacy of deep devotion to country that he'll leave behind," she said in a statement.
That appreciation was shared by Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall in a post on the social media platform Threads.
"I’m forever grateful for President Biden’s lifetime of public service," Mayor Mendenhall wrote. "His decision today must have been one of the hardest of his life. The motive is, truly, from a deep and unshakable love for our country."
Brian King, the Democratic candidate for governor, said in a statement that Biden's decision "is an act of public good over personal interest. I am excited to see our country come together to nominate a candidate and to continue the commonsense, good governance that the Biden Administration has started."
Utah Senate Minority Leader Luz Escamilla, D-Salt Lake City, commended Biden's decision in a statement.
"We also recognize all that he has done for Utah and Utahns, including investments in our state's infrastructure and rural energy, which have greatly enhanced the overall quality of life in our state," she said. "His decision embodies the values of our party and mirrors the strength of our nation—that we prioritize the overall progress of the country over personal gain."
The Utah House Democrats expressed similar sentiments, thanking the president and adding that they are eager to continue working with him in the final months of his presidency.
“His leadership has made a lasting impact on both our nation and the state of Utah," said House Minority Leader Angela Romero, D-Salt Lake City. "His legacy will continue to inspire us as elected officials. Thank you, President Biden, for your service to the United States of America and Utah.”
VIDEO BELOW: Jason Perry and Scott Howell join FOX 13 News for a discussion on Biden's decision
Top Utah Republicans applauded the president's decision, but offered a mixed assessment. Sen. Mitt Romney pointed out that while he and Biden disagreed on many topics, they found common ground on Capitol Hill.
"Others will judge his presidency. However, having worked with him these past few years, I respect President Biden. His decision to withdraw from the race was right and is in the best interest of the country," Romney's statement read. “Ann and I send warm personal wishes to the President and First Lady.”
Governor Spencer Cox echoed similar feelings of mutual respect despite political disagreements. He also added some sympathy.
"Getting old is hard. I’ve watched my own dad’s struggles with Parkinson’s disease and it has been a heavy weight for him and our family," his post on Xread in part. "[Biden] has always been gracious and kind to me and my family—and all the other governors in the [National Governors Association]. I don’t need to list all our disagreements today. But I do need to thank him for his dedication and years of service to our country and for making the right decision."
Conversely, Sen. Mike Lee said on X that "If Joe Biden is unfit to run for re-election, he is unfit to remain president. He should resign."
Watch LIVE coverage below on Biden dropping out of reelection bid:
