Thomas Wright will not seek reelection as Utah Republican Party Chair

Thomas Wright, chair of the Utah Republican Party, presides over a Utah Republican Party meeting from the lectern.

Thomas Wright, chair of the Utah Republican Party since 2011, will not seek reelection when his term expires in May.

The news first appeared on Facebook, and Wright has since confirmed it to me in a text.

Known for his tact, energy, organization, and tenacity, Wright leaves behind a Republican Party in Utah that oversaw gains in the Utah Legislature and improved organization at the grassroots level.

Wright was elected on the wings of a successful vote-by-mail effort he led during his term as Salt Lake County Republican Party Chair, registering some 40,000 voters. In 2012, Wright oversaw a caucus night that more than doubled attendance from 58,000 in 2010 to at more than 125,000 in 2012. During the 2012 election, the Republican Party increased its advantage in the State Legislature, winning from Democrats an additional three seats in the House and one in the Senate.

In a letter posted on the Utah Republican Party’s Facebook page, Wright said that while serving as chair has been an honor, he looks forward to more time with family and focusing on his business.

David Neilsen, who worked under Wright at the Utah Republican Party and was closely involved in the GOP’s grassroots strategy, spoke highly of his former boss.

“Thomas is a compassionate and thoughtful leader,” said Neilsen. “I’m sad to see him step aside and wish him all the best.”

On a personal note, I have found Wright to always offer a fair shake and optimistic outlook. I remember watching him handle an especially contentious exchange between individuals at a Republican meeting which I attended. Wright tactfully allowed each party to have its opportunity to be heard and carefully weighed his role in helping resolve the conflict. When all was over, Wright offered his appreciation for the diversity of views and expressed his wish that we continue to bring our differing perspectives to the table.

That willingness to hear all sides and welcome all interested in working together is part of why Wright was able to bring new energy to each project, breathing new life into Utah Grand Old Party. He will be missed.

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