Governor Cox nominates judge and attorney to Utah Supreme Court seats

Governor Spencer Cox introduced 5th District Judge Matthew Bell and attorney Michael Menssen as his picks for the Utah Supreme Court, emphasizing Bell’s judicial record and Menssen’s reputation in civil litigation. The two must be approved by the state Senate to replace Justice Diana Hagen, who stepped down amid a controversy, and Chief Justice Matthew Durrant, who will retire next week after 26 years. Cox highlighted the constitutional oath they will uphold and noted the appointments come after the Legislature enlarged the court to seven members, a move that drew criticism.

He also mentioned that the governor will later choose a new chief justice, a decision expected within six to eight weeks. In the interim, associate chief justice Jill Pohlman will continue in her role despite prior partisan challenges.