It was a pleasure to greet U.S. Secretary of Education @EDSecMcMahon as she began her national education tour in Utah. As we look toward the next 250 years of American education, I’m proud our state is building on a strong foundation. From 2015 to 2025, we’ve increased public education funding by $3.1 billion to strengthen opportunities for teachers and children. I’m grateful for Secretary McMahon’s commitment to returning education decisions to the states. Her priorities align with Utah’s efforts to empower parents, support educators and help every student succeed.

Pamela Atkinson was truly one of a kind. She had an extraordinary heart, an unwavering commitment to serving others and a great ability to make everyone she met feel valued. Her compassion was matched only by her determination to make a difference. Pamela didn't just talk about service; she lived it every single day. She brought people together, inspired action and showed us the difference one person can make. Utah is a better place because of Pamela Atkinson. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the selfless example she set for all of us. My heart goes out to her family, friends and all who loved her. We have lost a remarkable woman and friend. She will be deeply missed, but the love she shared and the difference she made will not be forgotten.

It was an honor to welcome Ambassador Batbayar Ulziidelger back to Utah. He has been a great friend to our state, and I appreciate all he has done to strengthen the relationship between Utah and Mongolia.   Together, we had the privilege of celebrating my good friend Dr. Ray Price and his appointment as Honorary Consul of Mongolia for the State of Utah. Ray has spent years serving the people of Mongolia and building connections through healthcare education. This appointment is a well-deserved recognition of the work he has already done and the relationships he continues to strengthen.   Utah and Mongolia have a lot we can learn from one another, and I am excited to see this friendship continue to grow and create new opportunities for both of our communities.

It was a privilege to welcome President Sadyr Zhaparov of the Kyrgyz Republic to Utah. Utah and Kyrgyzstan are separated by thousands of miles, but we share much in common: strong communities, remarkable mountain landscapes and a desire to create lasting opportunity for the next generation. Utah has shown what is possible when we pair those strengths with innovation, responsible growth and a commitment to the future. I appreciated the opportunity to exchange ideas with President Zhaparov, share some of Utah’s experiences and learn more about his vision for the Kyrgyz Republic. Visits like this strengthen relationships, open new opportunities and remind us how much we can learn from one another. I’m grateful President @sadyrzhaparovkg chose to spend time in Utah and look forward to building on the relationships formed during his visit.

Twenty-five years after September 11, 2001, we remember nearly 3,000 lives lost. We honor the first responders and all those who ran toward danger, putting others before themselves. In one of our nation’s darkest moments, their courage revealed the strength and resolve of the American people. We also remember the America that emerged in the days that followed. Neighbors helped neighbors. People from every background came together with a renewed appreciation for the freedoms we share. That spirit of courage, service and unity is worth carrying forward. America is strongest when we stand together, serve one another and never take our freedom for granted. May we never forget.

Labor Day is a reminder that Utah’s success is built by people who show up, work hard and create opportunities for the next generation. I’m grateful for the men and women across our state who build our communities, support their families and help create an even stronger future for Utah.

Utah ranks No. 1 in the nation in the 2026 Camelot Index. This recognition reflects Utah’s culture of neighborly values, strong communities and our people’s commitment to building a bright future. Our robust economy, low crime, strong families, focus on education and responsible state government have helped make Utah a place where people can thrive. Together, we have built a strong foundation for Utahns today, and we will continue working to ensure future generations have even greater opportunities to succeed.

I joined Utah’s federal delegation, state leaders and local officials in Beaver to meet with residents, hear their concerns and see firsthand the impact of the recent wildfires and flooding yesterday. I was also grateful for the opportunity to attend the Pioneer Day parade and spend time with this remarkable community. Even in the midst of difficult circumstances, Beaver’s compassion, determination and strong sense of community were on full display. My prayers are with every family grieving the loss of a loved one, those who have been displaced and everyone whose homes, businesses, and property have been damaged. The response from Utahns has shown the very best of our state, neighbors helping neighbors, communities coming together to work side by side to support recovery. We will continue working with local, state and federal partners to help these communities rebuild and move forward.

Utah’s story began with faith, sacrifice and determination that continue to shape who we are today. As we celebrate Pioneer Day, may we honor that legacy by building something for the next generation that’s worthy of those who came before us. Happy Pioneer Day.

I recently visited Kaddas Enterprises and saw firsthand how Utah manufacturers are helping strengthen our state's critical infrastructure while supporting wildlife conservation. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, wildlife is responsible for approximately 20% of power outages nationwide. Kaddas Enterprises is helping meet that challenge by manufacturing innovative products that strengthen grid reliability, protect critical electrical infrastructure, reduce wildfire risk and conserve wildlife. It is encouraging to see a Utah company creating innovative products that are manufactured here at home and shipped to customers across the country and around the world. That kind of innovation strengthens our economy, creates good jobs and helps solve real-world challenges while making our communities safer and more resilient. This is what Utah does best. We bring together innovation, manufacturing and practical problem-solving to strengthen our economy, support responsible stewardship and build a stronger future for our state.