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Utah Senate unanimously confirms Kelly Pearson as agriculture commissioner
Summary
The Utah Senate on a voice and roll-call vote consented to Governor Spencer J. Cox's appointment of Kelly Pearson as executive director/commissioner of the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, 26–0 with three absent. Pearson introduced his family and outlined priorities including food security, water and grazing issues.
SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Senate on Tuesday consented to Governor Spencer J. Cox’s appointment of Kelly Pearson as executive director (commissioner) of the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, voting 26–0 with three senators absent.
The confirmation came during the second extraordinary session called by the governor to consider appointments. The governor’s letter transmitting the nomination cited Utah Code sections 67-1-1 and 67-1-2.
The Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment Confirmation Committee reported a favorable recommendation before the full Senate vote, and Senator Hinkins moved the consent. Committee chair Senator Darren R. Owens told senators the confirmation hearing was “the most attended” he had seen and asked that Pearson and his family be recognized in the gallery after the vote.
Pearson, who told the committee he grew up in Monticello, introduced his wife Heidi, daughter Caitlin and sons Trey and Wyatt, and his parents-in-law Val and Susan Peterson. He described priorities he intends to bring to the agency, saying agriculture work in Utah touches food security, water, public lands and grazing. “I’m very energized,” Pearson said, and said he was “very humbled” by the confirmation.
After the roll call, President Adams said the Senate would resolve into a committee of the whole so Pearson could speak and be introduced to members and guests. Senators then voted to return to the floor and formally conclude the session’s business.
Formal action: the motion to consent to Kelly Pearson’s appointment passed by roll call vote, tally 26 yes, 0 no, 3 absent.
Why it matters: The executive director of the Department of Agriculture and Food oversees state programs affecting farmers, ranchers, food safety, and grazing on public lands — areas Pearson highlighted in his remarks.
No effective date for Pearson’s tenure was stated on the floor during the session.
