What You Can Expect from Me as Your Senator
I know many of you would like to understand what you can expect from me as your new Senator. I take that responsibility seriously.
In representing Utah, I draw from the example of the pioneers who settled this land—men and women of strength, vision, and purpose. Their values continue to guide our state and they shape my approach to public service.
The Pioneer Values I Strive to Uphold
1. Hard Work & Self-Reliance
Pioneers trusted their own ingenuity and effort. Our policies should reflect that same spirit—supporting self-reliance, compassion, and upward mobility for all.
2. Courage & Perseverance
The westward journey was full of challenges but pioneers were undaunted. Our challenges today are different, but the resolve to face them must be the same.
3. Faith & Spirituality
Many pioneers saw their path as divinely guided. Faith remains a source of strength and hope in my own work.
4. Family & Community
Family was the backbone of pioneering life. Communities came together to build schools, churches, and infrastructure, emphasizing mutual support and shared progress. When policies replace those bonds with government dependence, they weaken the foundation of our nation.
5. Adaptability, Resourcefulness & Thrift
In the face of scarcity, pioneers innovated. I believe we must apply that same mindset to life and governance today—by adapting, solving, and stewarding wisely.
6. Optimism & Ambition
Pioneers pressed forward with hope for a better future. That spirit of optimism still remains key to building strong communities and a thriving nation.
7. Respect for the Land
Pioneers lived close to the land and cared for it. Stewardship is still essential today—and the best decisions about land come from those who live nearest to it.
8. Independence & Freedom
The West symbolized freedom and opportunity. For pioneers, it was a chance to start fresh, free from societal constraints. Our policies must continue to protect that legacy of liberty and opportunity.
9. Patriotism
Pioneers viewed their westward expansion as part of America’s unfolding story. They took pride in contributing to a growing nation. Our future depends on honoring and advancing the ideals they helped shape.
10. Relying on Neighbors, Not Government
Pioneers counted on each other, not bureaucracy. That principle of community-driven problem-solving is just as vital today.
Policy Priorities
Representing Utah is a privilege. I approach this responsibility with a focus on practical solutions that reflect the pioneer values Utahns continue to uphold.
Energy
Energy powers our economy and secures our future. I support an all-of-the-above strategy—fossil fuels and renewables alike—that prioritizes affordability, reliability, and cleaner outcomes. Utah is already a leader in responsible development. To maintain that leadership, we must modernize outdated permitting systems so our resources can meet growing demands at home and around the world.
National Debt
Our $33 trillion national debt is more than a fiscal issue—it’s a generational one. The usual debates over spending cuts or tax increases often miss the root cause: a broken budgeting process. I’m working to reform that process so we can restore accountability, transparency, and long-term stability to our nation’s finances.
Local Control
As a former mayor, I’ve seen how federal overreach creates unnecessary burdens. Local leaders are best positioned to solve local problems. I remain committed to returning decision-making authority to state and local governments—especially in areas like education and public land management.
U.S.–China Relations
China’s manipulation of markets and disregard for intellectual property undermines American innovation, industry, and security. With long-standing experience in the region, I’ve worked directly and effectively to hold the Chinese Communist Party accountable. That work continues. (That’s why there’s now a warrant for my arrest in China.)
We must continue to protect critical industries, support American workers, and secure our strategic interests.
A Final Word
You’ve asked what you can expect from me as your Senator. You can expect me to work hard, to stay grounded in Utah values, and to remain focused on solutions that matter.
Public service is a trust. It’s a humbling responsibility to represent the people of Utah – and I wake up every morning determined to fulfill that trust with respect, integrity, and results.
Thank you for the honor of serving.
— Senator John Curtis