Gary Herbert

Gary Herbert is an American politician who served as the 17th governor of Utah from 2009 to 2021. A member of the Republican Party, he held the position for over 11 years, making him the second-longest-serving governor in Utah's history and the longest-serving Republican governor in the state. Herbert's tenure included significant involvement in national governance, as he chaired the National Governors Association during the 2015–2016 cycle. His political career began at the local level and progressed through various roles, ultimately leading to his governorship.

Early life and career

Gary Herbert was born on May 7, 1947, in American Fork, Utah. He is the son of Carol Boley and Paul Richard Peters. His early family life was marked by his parents' divorce when he was a toddler, after which his mother remarried Duane Barlow Herbert, who adopted Gary. This familial restructuring led to Herbert being raised primarily in Orem, Utah, where he completed his high school education at Orem High School. Following high school, he served a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Eastern States Mission. Herbert later attended Brigham Young University, although he did not complete his degree.

In addition to his educational pursuits, Herbert served in the Utah Army National Guard for six years, achieving the rank of staff sergeant. After his military service, he established a career in real estate by founding Herbert and Associates Realtors. His professional involvement extended to leadership roles, including serving as president of both the Utah Association of Counties and the Utah Association of Realtors. Herbert is married to Jeanette Snelson Herbert, and together they have six children and sixteen grandchildren. Jeanette Herbert has been active in community service, notably as the Honorary Chair of the Governor's Commission on Literacy.

Herbert's political career began in earnest in 1990 when he was appointed to the Utah County Commission, a position he held for 14 years. During his tenure, he took on leadership roles within various organizations, including serving as president of the Utah Association of Counties. He was succeeded in this role by Larry Ellertson in 2004.

In 2004, Herbert sought the Republican nomination for governor but ultimately became the running mate of Jon Huntsman, Jr. in the general election. The Huntsman-Herbert ticket successfully defeated incumbent governor Olene S. Walker at the state convention and went on to win the November election, leading to Herbert's appointment as lieutenant governor.

Governorship

Herbert became the governor of Utah on August 11, 2009, following Jon Huntsman's resignation to become the United States Ambassador to China. His ascension to the governorship was marked by a special election in 2010, where he ran as the Republican nominee and defeated Democratic candidate Peter Corroon with a significant majority. Herbert's victory in this election was a key moment in his political career, as it solidified his position in the state's highest office.

In 2012, Herbert successfully ran for a full four-year term as governor, defeating retired Major General Peter Cooke in the election. His administration was characterized by various legislative initiatives, including the signing of the Utah Transfer of Public Lands Act into law in March 2012. Herbert's governance style emphasized fiscal responsibility and economic growth, which he attributed to low taxes and a business-friendly environment.

Herbert's leadership extended beyond state boundaries as he served as vice chair of the National Governors Association from 2014 to 2015 and subsequently as chair from 2015 to 2016. His involvement in this national organization allowed him to engage with other governors on issues affecting states across the country.

In 2016, Herbert was re-elected for a second full term, defeating entrepreneur Mike Weinholtz. His administration continued to focus on economic development and job creation, with Herbert often highlighting the importance of maintaining a favorable business climate in Utah.

In 2019, Herbert announced that he would not seek re-election for a third term in 2020. He endorsed his lieutenant governor, Spencer Cox, as his successor, marking a transition in leadership for the state.

Policy focus and legacy

Throughout his time in office, Herbert's policy focus included economic development, education, and public lands management. He advocated for a business-friendly environment, which he believed was essential for fostering job growth and economic recovery following the 2008 financial crisis. Herbert's administration implemented various measures aimed at stimulating economic activity, including tax reforms and initiatives to attract private investment.

In education, Herbert's administration sought to improve the state's educational system, although specific policies and outcomes varied throughout his tenure. His approach to education emphasized accountability and performance, with an aim to enhance the quality of education in Utah.

Herbert's legacy as governor is marked by his long tenure and the various initiatives he championed during his time in office. His leadership style and policy decisions have had a lasting impact on the state of Utah, influencing its economic landscape and governance practices. As a prominent figure in Utah politics, Herbert's contributions continue to shape discussions around state policy and governance in the years following his administration.