Utah’s Governor Comments About Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro Stir Debate Online
Utah Governor Spencer Cox, a Republican, stirred up debate this week after making comments that sounded more like an endorsement of a Democrat than support for his own party. During a joint interview with CNN’s Dana…
Utah Governor Spencer Cox, a Republican, stirred up debate this week after making comments that sounded more like an endorsement of a Democrat than support for his own party. During a joint interview with CNN’s Dana Bash, Cox praised Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and said he believed Shapiro would make a “good president.”
The interview aired Tuesday evening, around the same time President Donald Trump was holding an economic rally in Pennsylvania—Shapiro’s home turf. With Trump back in the White House and campaigning on economic growth and national strength, Cox’s comments stood out. Shapiro, who is not running in 2025, is widely seen as a potential frontrunner for the Democratic nomination in 2028. He is popular in his state and was even reportedly considered as a vice presidential pick by former Vice President Kamala Harris before she chose Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.
When Bash asked Cox if he thought Shapiro would make a good president, he answered right away: “Yeah, I do.”
Cox explained his reasoning by saying that governors tend to make strong presidents because they are used to getting things done. “I think governors make the best presidents,” Cox said. “As governors, we actually have to accomplish stuff.”
He went on to compliment Shapiro’s record, especially on the economy. “I’ve been very impressed with what he’s been able to do on the economy with permitting reform, cutting regulation,” Cox said. “That sounded like red state stuff and he’s doing it and that’s impressive to me.”
Cox also pointed to the idea that Americans are “voting with their feet,” meaning people are moving to states that align with their values. He said governors learn from each other and improve policies by borrowing ideas from other states. While that message may appeal to moderates, it didn’t sit well with many Republicans.
Critics on the right quickly pushed back. Some called Cox’s comments tone-deaf, especially since they aired at the same time as President Trump’s rally, which focused on bringing down inflation, improving jobs, and securing the border. Others said the interview made it even more clear that Cox is out of step with the MAGA movement and grassroots conservatives.