Not the end, just the beginning

My Fellow Republicans and Friends,

After much thought and consideration, I have decided not to seek re-election as the Utah Republican Party Chair. It truly has been the opportunity of a lifetime to serve you all. This state and its people have and always will hold a special place in my heart.

When I first ran for Chairman, I thought that I knew what I was getting into. Boy, was I wrong. In the first week of our tenure, the media ran 5 negative pieces on how the party was ruined, soon to be broke and dysfunctional. I'm very proud to say how wrong they were. A collective effort from my leadership team, county party's, volunteers and elected officials made it all possible. The party is in a great place today because of each of you.

I am proud to say that for the first time in a long time, the party has 0 outstanding financial obligations and accounts sitting in the black! The party has a sense of direction with a foundation rooted in the party platform and the values that have made Utah the amazing place that it is today. All of the success that the party sees, is because of all of you who continue to serve selflessly, and I can never thank you enough.

With all of that being said, this State, this Party and our governance requires constant work and vigilance. We must never become complacent. Good enough, is not good enough. The most common question I am asked is: "What is something that you have learned or seen that you didn't know before?" My answer is always the same. The extremely disappointing fact that dishonesty and disloyalty seem to be the traded currency in politics. This was not something I was accustomed to seeing. Growing up the way I did, a person's word was all they had. Deals are and were done with a handshake that should be enough, but it isn't.

Now I mention this for a reason. This is not to say all is lost or that there is nothing that can be done or that all elected officials are this way. On the contrary, the reason I mention this is so that Utah citizens can and should expect more. We have some of the best elected officials in the country. That doesn't mean there is not room for improvement. Many of you have heard me say, " I would rather have someone hate me for telling them the truth they do not want to hear, than have them hate me for telling them the lie they wanted to hear. At least at the end of the day they can still respect me for the former, and I can look myself in the mirror."

I want you all to remember though, this goes both directions. Respect those willing to tell you the hard truths. Though you may disagree, keep that respect. Having a disagreement doesn't have to be uncivil, and don't let anyone tell you that because you disagree you are uncivil. Hold those accountable who are unwilling to speak the truth. Politics has always been filled with empty promises, don't let that happen here.

I pray that at the end of my tenure, though you may disagree with me on policy or choices, that I have at least earned your respect and trust to continue to lead. I love this State and this Country. I will continue to fight for the people and things I believe in. I know that truth and common sense will prevail, as long as there are those left willing to fight for it.

From my family to yours, and from the bottom of my heart, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve. Someone on twitter not too long ago said, " When is this idiot done? So I don't have to see that stupid hat anymore". I'm sorry to disappoint you, random twitter person. Unfortunately, the hat will be a staple in Utah politics for the foreseeable future!

It is no secret to us why Utah is so special. Let's keep it that way!

God Bless you all,

-Chairman Carson Jorgensen