Opinion: 3 years at the top — because we never stop moving forward
By J. Stuart Adams and Mike Schultz
Guest Opinion, Deseret News
Published May 7, 2025
For the third consecutive year, Utah was named the best state in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. In this guest opinion, Senate President J. Stuart Adams and House Speaker Mike Schultz discuss what they believe has contributed to Utah’s continued success and why the state must continue working toward long-term growth and improvement.
Adams and Schultz emphasize that Utah’s recognition reflects the work of its people, including families, workers, educators, entrepreneurs, public servants and community leaders. They point to collaboration, innovation and a shared commitment to improving the state as factors contributing to Utah’s performance.
The authors argue that being ranked No. 1 should not be viewed as a finish line, but rather as motivation to continue improving. They highlight areas including economic growth, education, quality of life, infrastructure and opportunity as priorities that require continued attention.
The article also emphasizes long-term planning and preparing for Utah’s future, noting that the state’s continued growth will require leaders to think beyond the present and develop solutions that benefit future generations.
Adams and Schultz describe Utah’s success as the result of years of intentional work and collaboration, while emphasizing that continued progress will require maintaining that same focus.
“The secret to Utah’s success is simple: We never stop moving forward.”
The authors conclude by arguing that Utah should celebrate the recognition while continuing to focus on long-term solutions, careful planning and new ideas to improve the state for generations to come.
Read the full opinion at Deseret News:
Opinion: 3 years at the top — because we never stop moving forward
Originally published by Deseret News on May 7, 2025. Written by J. Stuart Adams, president of the Utah Senate, and Mike Schultz, speaker of the Utah House of Representatives.