Rep. Chris Stewart tells Utah senators to seek truth and civility, outlines policy priorities

U.S. Rep. Chris Stewart addressed the Utah Senate in a committee-of-the-whole session, telling members that one of the country’s greatest challenges is a decline in a commonly accepted foundation of truth and urging elected officials to listen, be gracious and speak truth even when it means criticizing leaders in one's own party.

Stewart said the nation faces "demonstrations almost every day" in Washington and described his view that political agitation is often driven by emotion rather than deliberation. He told senators he believes tax reform will spur economic activity, pledged to work toward repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act while protecting people with preexisting conditions, and advocated regulatory reform and strengthening national defense. He framed these as obligations rooted in an oath to protect the Constitution and the country.

During a brief question-and-answer period, Stewart described regular town halls and outreach to constituents, said his military background informs his work on national-security issues and told senators he would challenge any presidential action he judged to exceed constitutional authority. Senator Dabakis asked whether Utah's delegation would 'draw a line' with the president if necessary; Stewart replied he had an obligation to speak out and would do so if he believed constitutional limits were exceeded.

The address was ceremonial and advisory; no legislative action or direction was taken as a direct result of the remarks during the floor session.