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Utah Governor Rebukes Media for Amplifying Trump's Climate Denial

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 12:03 GMT by The Salt Lake Tribune
      Locales: Utah, Florida, Washington, UNITED STATES

Salt Lake City, UT - February 10th, 2026 - Utah Governor Spencer Cox has publicly rebuked media outlets for providing a platform to former President Donald Trump's renewed assertions that climate change is a "hoax." The rebuke comes amidst a growing tension within the Republican party between those acknowledging the scientific consensus on climate change and those who continue to downplay or deny its existence.

Governor Cox, a Republican known for his comparatively progressive stance on environmental issues, voiced his frustration in a video posted to X (formerly Twitter) earlier today. He specifically criticized the media's practice of amplifying Trump's controversial statements, arguing that it "gives him oxygen" and actively undermines efforts to address the climate crisis. "Every time he says something like this, you give him a platform. You give him oxygen. And it's incredibly damaging to the work we're trying to do," Cox stated.

The statement references comments made by Trump during a rally in New Hampshire on Saturday, where he dismissed concerns about climate change, claiming, "They want you to believe that the world is ending in 12 years, and they give you these crazy numbers. It's a hoax." While the specific '12 years' timeframe is a misrepresentation of earlier IPCC reports, the overall message continues a pattern of denialism that characterized much of Trump's presidency.

Governor Cox's criticism isn't simply a reaction to Trump's latest remarks. He has consistently positioned himself as a Republican leader willing to address climate change seriously. In 2023, he signed into law legislation focused on water conservation, a critical issue in the arid western United States, and the preservation of Utah's Great Salt Lake, which has been facing unprecedented declines in water levels due to drought and water usage. These initiatives represent a pragmatic approach, recognizing the tangible impacts of a changing climate on the state's resources.

A Widening Gulf Within the GOP

The situation underscores a deepening rift within the Republican party. While Trump's rhetoric resonates with a segment of the party base, a growing number of Republicans, particularly those in states visibly affected by climate change - like Utah, Florida, and California - are acknowledging the necessity of addressing the issue. This split presents a significant challenge for the party as it attempts to appeal to a broader electorate and formulate coherent policy positions.

Political analysts suggest that this divergence is driven by several factors. Younger voters, increasingly concerned about the environment, are pushing for more aggressive climate action. Furthermore, the economic costs of inaction - increased insurance premiums, damage from extreme weather events, and disruptions to agriculture - are becoming increasingly apparent.

"We're seeing a generational shift in how Republicans view climate change," explains Dr. Eleanor Vance, a political science professor at the University of Utah. "Older voters are often more aligned with the traditional skepticism, while younger voters are far more likely to demand action. This creates a real tension for party leaders."

The Media's Role in the Debate

Governor Cox's accusations against the media raise important questions about journalistic responsibility. While media outlets have a duty to report on statements made by prominent political figures, there's an ongoing debate about the extent to which they should amplify demonstrably false or misleading claims. Some argue that providing coverage, even critical coverage, inadvertently lends legitimacy to these claims. Others maintain that it's essential to expose these statements to public scrutiny.

"There's a delicate balance," says Mark Olsen, a media ethics professor at Brigham Young University. "The media needs to report the news, but it also has a responsibility to provide context and fact-checking. Simply repeating a claim without challenging it can be incredibly damaging."

The incident also highlights the influence of social media platforms in shaping the public discourse. Trump's use of X allows him to bypass traditional media filters and directly disseminate his message to millions of followers. This creates a challenge for those attempting to counter misinformation and promote accurate information about climate change.

Looking Ahead

The conflict between Governor Cox and former President Trump serves as a microcosm of the larger debate surrounding climate change in the United States. As the impacts of climate change become more severe, the pressure on policymakers to act will only intensify. The Republican party, in particular, faces a crucial choice: embrace a more proactive approach to climate change or continue to cling to outdated ideologies. The coming years will likely determine which path the party chooses, and the future of climate policy in the United States.