Utah’s Republican state House Speaker Brad Wilson, who has already expressed interest in running for Senate in 2024, announced his resignation from the Legislature on Monday, according to a press release.
The speaker launched an exploratory committee for a Senate bid in mid-April, which has already raised $1 million in campaign contributions, according to a Federal Election Commission filing.
Wilson, who has served in the state House since 2011, will remain speaker through Nov. 15, according to a press release.
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“Serving in the Utah House of Representatives and as Speaker of the House has been the honor, privilege, and opportunity of a lifetime – and I don’t say that lightly,” Wilson said in a statement. “I did not anticipate the lifelong impact of my decision to run for public office nearly 14 years ago. My service in the Legislature stems far beyond the policies passed and progress achieved. I have built lifelong friendships and come to love and appreciate the people of Utah.”
“I am excited for my next chapter and have full confidence in my peers in the House, Senate, and executive branch to continue making Utah the best place to live, learn, work, and play,” Wilson added.
Wilson also announced Monday on Twitter a “special announcement” scheduled for Sept. 27, while hinting at his Senate aspirations.
“It’s time for a conservative fighter in the U.S. Senate,” Wilson wrote. “Mark your calendar to join Jeni and me on Sept. 27th to get America back on track.”
Wilson’s announcement comes the week after Sen. Mitt Romney decided against a run for reelection, leaving the GOP primary field for his seat largely open. Only one Republican candidate has officially jumped into the race — Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs.
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Romney was leading the two contenders among Republicans with 45% support prior to his decision not to seek another term, followed by Wilson at 7% and Staggs at 5%, according to a Sept. 4 Deseret News/Hinckley Institute survey.
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