Congressman Chris Stewart tells Utah Senate he is a 'federalist,' urges state-federal cooperation

SALT LAKE CITY — Congressman Chris Stewart told the Utah State Senate on day five that he considers himself a "federalist" who believes many problems are best solved at the state and local level, and he urged lawmakers and federal officials to work together where possible.

Speaking after the Senate resolved into a Committee of the Whole to hear him, Stewart said: "I want you to know that I'm a federalist. I want you to know that I really believe in this idea that most of our problems are best solved at the state and the local level." He described state innovation as a valuable laboratory and said he had "great faith" in the decisions state lawmakers make.

Stewart took questions from senators on several topics. On health care and the Affordable Care Act, he expressed concern about federal regulatory detail and potential state budget impacts, warning that some implementation costs can translate into pressures on state finances. On immigration, he said he would support broader latitude for states by waiver where appropriate and voiced cautious optimism that comprehensive federal reform could move through Congress in a bipartisan way.

Senators thanked Stewart for answering questions about federal policy and for offering a perspective on congressional dynamics. Later, the Committee of the Whole was dissolved and the Senate returned to regular order.

Stewart’s visit provided lawmakers a direct opportunity to press federal concerns in a legislative forum and hear a member of Utah's congressional delegation explain his approach to balancing federal authority and state discretion.