Utah Governor Spencer Cox took to Twitter today to respond to the Salt Lake Tribune article detailing the $260,000 "security" expense to build a fence around, and a security bunkhouse on, his personal property in Fairview, Utah. Here is that explanation in full:
For very good reasons the Dept. of Public Safety will never comment on these issues or share security details for state buildings or officials and they would prefer I didn’t either. But I know how these things work, so let me share some context.
Shortly after being elected governor, we were approached by the Department of Public Safety with serious concerns about real threats and vulnerabilities. Abby and I were sick to learn how dangerous things had become. They proposed significant security measures including a fence and security building.
We hated the idea of feeling trapped (we had removed fencing on the property), but told them we would support whatever they felt was necessary to do their jobs. We offered to let security stay in the spare bedroom, but that would be a violation of protocol.
We looked at rentals nearby, but that would ultimately end up costing more money. DPS came back with plans for a very nice outbuilding. But we felt it was too much. And so we settled on a very small building where the security team could stay warm and monitor the property.
Abby and I also insisted that we would pay for any upgrades or to have them removed—out of our own pocket—when our service is finished. We were told that wasn’t necessary but did it anyway.
As to the legislature, leadership is briefed and security upgrades to buildings and officials are always included in a single line-item—so the bad guys don’t know where the vulnerabilities are. Now everyone knows the security upgrades aren’t complete. Which is fine I guess.
To those who believe these types of threats are exaggerated or overstated, I assure you they are not. We have had several security violations over the past year, including this one at the mansion that also prompted security upgrades. (Note: This tweet included a photo of what appears to be a bullet hole through a window at the Governor’s mansion)
I’m sure there are some who will criticize me for spending time in Fairview when we have a secure home provided by taxpayers in Salt Lake City. And it’s a fair criticism. I can only tell you that Fairview is the only place I can be me and feel connected to the soil and soul of our state.
For 7 years as Lieutenant Governor I drove 60,000 miles a year, commuting 200 miles round trip every day to preserve that connection. I promised the people in rural Utah I would continue to spend as much time there as possible. I intend to keep that promise.
My security team is made up of the best humans on this planet. I love every one of them as if they were family. It hurts me to know they are putting their lives on the line every day to protect me and my family. Stuff like this puts their lives at risk more than mine.
I know some love the idea of having a security team to drive and follow every move. But it’s not me. Those that know me know that I hate everything about it and pray that someday we will live in a world where none of it is necessary. Thanks for your kindness and support.