President Donald Trump has voiced support for efforts to save the Great Salt Lake, stating it was “highly important” and an “Environmental hazard” that “must be worked on, IMMEDIATELY.” He pledged to work with Utah Governor Spencer Cox to ensure the lake’s health.
A Shifting Relationship
The commitment comes after a period of political distance between Trump and Cox. The governor had previously declined to endorse Trump in 2020, and stated he did not vote for him in either 2016 or 2020. However, Cox recently endorsed Trump after reaching out following an assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, and encouraging him to “unify and save our country.”
Since then, Cox has adopted a more conciliatory approach, collaborating with the administration on some issues although maintaining disagreements on others.
Trump reiterated his commitment to the lake during remarks at the dinner, stating, “We’re going to save the Great Salt Lake, you know that right.” He recounted a conversation with Governor Cox, who explained the lake is “losing water rapidly, rapidly and it’s getting smaller, smaller, drier, drier.”
Governor Cox responded to Trump’s pledge with a statement of his own, affirming, “We will not let the lake fail. Period,” and thanking the president for his support.
Utah’s state Legislature is already working to address the lake’s decline by changing laws related to conservation, agriculture, and water usage. However, these efforts have also drawn criticism from some groups.
What’s Next?
While President Trump and Governor Cox have both expressed a commitment to saving the Great Salt Lake, details regarding specific federal actions or promises remain unclear. It is possible further discussions will outline a plan for federal involvement, but no such plan has been announced. The situation could also lead to increased scrutiny of state-level conservation efforts and potential adjustments to existing policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did President Trump say about Governor Cox?
President Trump praised Governor Cox, calling him “very caring,” and stated the people of Utah “deserve to be helped.”
What is the current status of the Great Salt Lake?
Governor Cox explained to President Trump that the lake is “losing water rapidly, rapidly and it’s getting smaller, smaller, drier, drier.”
Has Governor Cox always supported President Trump?
No, Governor Cox refused to endorse President Trump in 2020 and stated he did not vote for him in 2016 or 2020, but has since pledged his support.
As the Great Salt Lake continues to shrink, what role will federal and state collaboration play in its future?