Utah’s senators react to federal govt. initiating Trump-Biden transition

WASHINGTON — The U.S. senators for Utah have responded to Monday’s developments in the pending transition from a Trump presidency to a future Biden administration.

• Related story: Federal agency recognizes President-elect Biden’s win, formalizes transition

The General Services Administration, a government agency that assists incoming presidents with their transitions into the Oval Office, announced Monday that it has formally recognized President-elect Joe Biden’s victory in this month’s presidential election.

President Donald Trump responded in a relatively positive manner, recommending his team to cooperate in the transition of power.

“I want to thank Emily Murphy at GSA for her steadfast dedication and loyalty to our Country,” Trump tweeted. “She has been harassed, threatened, and abused – and I do not want to see this happen to her, her family, or employees of GSA. Our case STRONGLY continues, we will keep up the good fight, and I believe we will prevail! Nevertheless, in the best interest of our Country, I am recommending that Emily and her team do what needs to be done with regard to initial protocols, and have told my team to do the same.”

Senators Mike Lee and Mitt Romney, both Republicans, also reacted seemingly without any resistance to beginning the transition.

The office of Sen. Lee, a fervent supporter of the president, sent a statement to FOX 13 that read:

The office of Sen. Romney, who has spoken out publicly against Trump numerous times, also sent a statement:

“Senator Romney has called for the transition to move forward and today’s decision is the correct course of action.”