Lyman announces new running mate after first choice is ineligible

SALT LAKE CITY — Phil Lyman, the Republican challenging Gov. Spencer Cox in the Republican primary, has chosen a new running mate a day after his first choice was ruled ineligible by a Utah judge.

In a tweet posted just before 9 a.m. Saturday, Lyman announced Highlands resident Natalie Clawson as his new choice for lieutenant governor, replacing Layne Bangerter, who a judge ruled ineligible for Friday’s primaries.

“I am thrilled that Natalie is joining this campaign,” Lyman says in his statement. “She brings impressive skills, connections, integrity and experience to the office that will be critical as we move Utah back in the right direction.”

The press release outlines Clawson’s education and career history, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and a juris doctorate from Brigham Young University before being admitted to the Utah State Bar in 2003.

Lyman’s campaign also touts her work at the BYU Center for International Law and Religious Studies, and her record as a member of her community’s PTA and school community council.

“I am honored to be part of (Lyman’s campaign) and can’t wait to get started,” Clawson said in the same statement. “Utahns are done with politicians who don’t listen. I will be an advocate for parents and for individual rights. We are committed to supporting the values ​​that make our state great.”