Utah’s governor and Republican legislative leaders have launched an independent investigation into Justice Diana Hagen of the Utah Supreme Court over allegations of an improper relationship with David Reymann, a lawyer involved in a high-profile redistricting case. The probe follows a complaint filed by Hagen’s ex-husband, which accused her of exchanging "inappropriate" text messages with Reymann, who represented plaintiffs challenging the GOP-controlled legislature’s redistricting efforts.
Key Developments
- Gov. Spencer Cox (R-UT), Senate President Stuart Adams, and House Speaker Mike Schultz announced the investigation after the Judicial Conduct Commission declined to pursue the complaint further. They cited unresolved questions and the need for transparency.
- Justice Hagen and Reymann both deny the allegations. Hagen recused herself from cases involving Reymann, but the timing of any potential relationship remains unclear.
Context and Implications
The case stems from a 2024 Utah Supreme Court ruling that upheld a voter-approved ban on partisan gerrymandering, overturning a GOP-led effort to redraw congressional districts. The ruling shifted one district from Republican to Democratic control, raising political stakes.
Political Reactions
- Republican leaders have expressed concern about the integrity of the redistricting process, though they acknowledge the investigation’s outcome is uncertain. Senate Majority Leader Kirk Cullimore noted that the allegations could impact public trust in the courts.
- White House officials are monitoring the situation, with sources suggesting the administration is pressuring Utah Republicans to address the ethics concerns amid broader redistricting battles nationwide.
Background
The complaint, obtained by KSL, alleges Hagen’s ex-husband, Tobin Hagen, reported the messages to the Judicial Conduct Commission. The commission interviewed him but did not pursue further action, prompting the state leaders’ intervention.
The investigation comes as Utah and other states grapple with redistricting disputes, including efforts by former President Donald Trump to influence congressional maps in GOP-leaning states.