SALT LAKE CITY — Governor Spencer Cox of Utah is poised for a strong reelection in a state known for its Republican majority, yet his unexpected endorsement of Donald Trump has raised questions about his future direction as a leader perceived for a long time as a moderate within the GOP.

Cox is anticipated to defeat Democrat Brian King, a trial attorney and state representative who has previously held the role of House minority leader for eight years. In addition to facing King, the governor is contending with conservative write-in candidate Phil Lyman, who, after losing in the Republican primary back in June, has encouraged his supporters to cast their votes for him rather than Cox. Although Lyman’s campaign could siphon off some of Cox’s Republican base, analysts suggest that it is unlikely to significantly impact the overall election results.

Historically, moderate Republicans have enjoyed success in statewide elections in Utah, yet Cox is currently trying to reposition himself as more conservative than his previous record indicates. This shift has surprised many voters and political analysts alike, especially when Cox expressed his support for Trump following an assassination attempt against the former president in July. Notably, Cox did not support Trump in either the 2016 or 2020 elections.

Cox’s endorsement has the potential to alienate his moderate voter base, and it has seemingly done little to win him favor with avid followers of Trump’s “Make America Great Again” platform, many of whom expressed their disapproval of Cox at the state GOP convention this year through boos.

Ever since he aligned himself with Trump, Cox has remained steadfast in his support, publicly reaffirming his commitment in September, even as Trump faced backlash for his increasing hostile comments regarding immigrants—remarks that Cox had hoped would be avoided when he chose to endorse Trump.

Cox has also made public appearances alongside Trump, such as at Arlington National Cemetery, where both faced controversy. During one such event, Trump’s team engaged in a dispute with a cemetery staff member, leading to Cox’s potential violation of rules and possibly federal regulations by including a graveside photo with Trump in a campaign fundraising email.

Interestingly, despite Cox’s efforts to align with Trump, the former president has not extended his endorsement for Cox’s reelection campaign.

Polling locations across the state will open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m.