Utah House Majority Leader Jefferson Moss set to resign

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah House Majority Leader Jefferson Moss will resign from his position in the state Legislature to become the executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO). 

Governor Spencer Cox made the appointment on Friday, after GOEO’s previous executive director, Ryan Starks, left to pursue other professional endeavors last week.

“Jefferson Moss brings a rare combination of public service, private sector experience, and a deep understanding of innovation and education,” Gov. Cox said, in a statement. “He’s been a driving force behind many of Utah’s most forward-thinking initiatives, and I’m confident he’ll lead the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity with the same vision, energy, and commitment to our state’s future that have defined his career.”

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Some of his colleagues, even across the aisle agree he would be a good fit for the position. 

“Jeff Moss will do well wherever he’s at because he’s kind [and] he’s compassionate,” said House Minority Leader Angela Romero. “He’s a person who puts people first and he’s very organized.”

What’s next for his seat?

Representative Moss is set to step down from his position as the House Majority Leader on May 30th. He will begin in his new role as acting executive director until the senate confirms his position permanently.

This means the House will have multiple holes to fill, both in his capacity as a representative and as the House majority leader.

The House Majority Caucus will hold a special leadership election in the coming weeks. Romero hopes House republicans will choose someone similarly easy to work with.

“I hope it’s someone that’s similar to Representative Moss, who has strong leadership skills, and organizational structure,” Romero listed. “Someone who is willing to disagree respectfully and continue to make progress as a state.”

As for the seat he was elected to in the house, Utah GOP Chair Robert Axson says it is up to the Utah county delegates in district 51 to decide who will fill it.

“Obviously Jefferson Moss is a Republican, so it goes to the Republican party,” Axson explained. “They convene the delegates who represent that legislative district.”

The Utah County Republican Party is currently trying to set up a timeline for how soon they could set up a special election; however that race should be kicking up soon. 

“When they’re not in the middle of a legislative session you have a little bit more time to account for back-and-forth and dialogue,” Axson said. “Still you want to fill it as quickly as possible, so the constituents and voters in that district have representation.”

Colleagues wish him well

Moss took office in January 2017. He has served in House Majority Leadership since 2019, including as Executive Appropriations Vice Chair, House Majority Whip, and House Majority Leader. 

After the announcement, a number of members from the Legislature acknowledged his service to state. 

“Rep. Moss is an extraordinary leader, a trusted colleague, and a loyal friend,” said House Speaker Mike Schultz. “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 also wished him well, and say they appreciated his ability to work across the aisle.

“During his time in office, he has been a consistent partner on issues shaping Utah’s economic and policy landscape. As he transitions to his new role as Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, we acknowledge his contributions and look forward to working with him in this new capacity.”

Moss also issued a statement about his transition to a new role.

“Serving in the Legislature has been one of the great honors of my life,” said Moss. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the people of Utah in this new capacity and help advance the Governor’s vision for economic opportunity across the state.