How Romney Successfully Bucks GOP Trend by Opposing Trump

A recent poll indicates a significant increase in approval for Senator Mitt Romney among Utah Republicans over the past few months. Additionally, the poll reflects growing support for a potential second run by Romney, who is up for reelection in 2024. The poll also explores potential scenarios in a 2024 Republican primary, pitting Romney against challengers like Trent Staggs, the mayor of Riverton, and Utah Speaker Brad Wilson, who is considering a run for the Senate seat.

While Romney has not officially announced his candidacy for re-election, he has indicated that he will make a decision this fall and announce it before the end of the year. His decision seems to hinge on his assessment of whether he can effectively address the issues he cares about and work across the aisle to achieve results for the state.

The poll conducted in August of 803 registered Utah voters by Dan Jones & Associates reveals that Romney’s job approval among Utah Republicans has risen from 40% in May to 56% in August. This increase in support may be attributed to several factors. Romney has been more vocal in his opposition to President Joe Biden on various issues, such as the economy, foreign policy, and public lands, which has resonated with many Republican voters.

Furthermore, Romney’s recent efforts to secure federal funding for projects in Utah, including those through the infrastructure bill, have contributed to his popularity. His long-standing presence in national politics and name recognition also work in his favor, allowing him to maintain a prominent role on the national stage.

The poll also asked Utah voters about Romney’s potential second run in 2024, with 35% supporting it, 21% considering it, 12% leaning against it, and 32% firmly opposed. The strongest support for his re-election came from self-described moderates, while very conservative voters were less enthusiastic about the idea.

In a hypothetical matchup against Wilson and Staggs, Romney received significant support, with 44% of respondents favoring him. However, it’s worth noting that it is still early in the 2024 campaign season, and the field of candidates may evolve over time.

While Romney’s office projects confidence in his chances for re-election, potential challengers like Wilson and Staggs believe that Utah Republicans are seeking conservative leadership and are eager for a change in 2024. Ultimately, Romney’s decision and the shape of the 2024 Senate race in Utah remain to be seen, as voters await his announcement and the evolution of the political landscape.

According to a statement, “Jeremy Murphy is a sarcastic, embittered veteran of the media industry. Founder of 360bespoke, a respected boutique PR agency in New York, Murphy handles a full roster of clients in the lifestyle, beauty, fashion, and start-up fields. Previously, he was Vice President of Communications at CBS, where he worked for 14 years. There, he oversaw PR for many of its divisions and created its glossy magazine Watch. Murphy started as a journalist, working with Knight Ridder newspapers and Mediaweek. He is a graduate of Florida Atlantic University and lives in New York with his cat, Champers.”

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