Governor Cox appoints Mister Deeds to new public service position in Utah

The Senate Revenue and Taxation Confirmation Committee convened on August 18, 2025, to discuss the appointment of a new member, Mr. Deeds. The meeting began with Mr. Deeds expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to serve, particularly noting the timing of the meeting coinciding with the first day of school, which allowed his children to attend school rather than accompany him.

Mr. Deeds thanked Governor Cox for his appointment and emphasized his commitment to upholding the state's tax laws fairly and impartially. He reflected on his educational background, highlighting the influence of Professor Dan Jones from the University of Utah, who instilled in him the importance of civic responsibility and active participation in democracy. Mr. Deeds shared his journey, which included clerking for the Utah House of Representatives, and expressed his desire to fulfill his civic duties through this new role.

He acknowledged the difficulty of leaving his current job and colleagues, stating that the decision was made after considerable thought and discussion with his wife. Mr. Deeds provided a brief overview of his qualifications, including his double major in political science and psychology, a law degree from the University of Utah, and an L.L.M. in taxation from Georgetown University. He has since practiced in the state and local tax field.

In addition to his professional background, Mr. Deeds shared personal details about his family, including his five children and his love for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and biking. He also mentioned his involvement in coaching his children's sports teams.

Following Mr. Deeds' public statement, the committee opened the floor for public comments in support of his appointment. The meeting proceeded to gather feedback from attendees, marking a significant step in the confirmation process for Mr. Deeds. The committee's discussions and the public's input will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of his appointment.