Cox appoints ‘originalist’ Judge John Nielsen to Utah Supreme Court

Utah Supreme Court Appointment

Gov. Spencer Cox has appointed Judge John Nielsen to the Utah Supreme Court, replacing outgoing Associate Chief Justice John Peace.

After reviewing dozens of applications and conducting hours of interviews, Cox expressed confidence in his choice, citing Nielsen's judicial philosophy and temperament.

Cox said that after reviewing dozens of applications, hours of interviews exploring the candidates’ judicial philosophy and temperament, and examining many of their arguments and decisions, he’s confident in his choice.

Nielsen's experience includes working in private ventures, including a joint firm with former Utah Associate Chief Justice Thomas Lee, and serving as solicitor general in the Utah Attorney General’s Office for 11 years. He has also worked as an adjunct associate professor at the University of Utah.

Nielsen currently serves as a Third District Judge, a position he was appointed to by Cox in September 2024, and now awaits confirmation from the Utah Senate to join the high court.

Author's summary: Cox appoints Judge John Nielsen to Utah Supreme Court.

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Standard-Examiner Standard-Examiner — 2025-10-15

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