Jefferson Moss, a Saratoga Springs Republican and the Utah House majority leader, is resigning from elected office to become the next executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
His last day in the Legislature, where he has served since 2017, will be May 30, according to a Friday morning announcement from the Utah House.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the people of House District 51 and the state of Utah,” Moss said in a statement. “I’m incredibly proud of the work we’ve accomplished together to strengthen our economy, invest in education, and expand opportunity for Utah families. I look forward to continuing my work in a new capacity, helping lead Utah’s economic future.”
Republicans delegates will elect Moss’s replacement in the Legislature, likely at the May 31 Utah GOP convention, and the House GOP will pick their next majority leader in the coming weeks, according to a spokesperson.
Moss’s departure leaves a vacancy in Republican House leadership, where Rep. Karianne Lisonbee of Clearfield serves as the majority whip and Rep. Casey Snider of Paradise serves as the assistant whip.
“Rep. Moss is an extraordinary leader, a trusted colleague, and a loyal friend,” House Speaker Mike Schultz said in a statement. “His vision, work ethic, and collaborative approach have left a lasting mark on our state. Rep. Moss has a unique ability to bring people together, think outside the box, and solve complex challenges. While we’ll miss his leadership in the House, I know he will continue to serve Utah with the same passion and purpose in his new role.”
Democrats in the House called Moss “a consistent partner on issues shaping Utah’s economic and policy landscape,” adding in a statement Friday afternoon that they “look forward to working with him in this new capacity.”
Gov. Spencer Cox announced the appointment of Moss in a separate announcement Friday morning, the Utah County Republican “brings a rare combination of public service, private sector experience, and a deep understanding of innovation and education.”
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This article is published through the Utah News Collaborative, a partnership of news organizations in Utah that aims to inform readers across the state.