Incoming GOP Senator John Curtis Anticipates Policy Disagreements with Trump

Senator-elect John Curtis (R-Utah) stated in an interview on Sunday that while he fully supports President-elect Donald Trump’s key objectives, he anticipates moments of respectful disagreement over certain issues, particularly government spending. Curtis, who will replace outgoing Senator Mitt Romney, shared his perspective during an appearance on ABC News’s This Week with Jonathan Karl.

“I want him to be wildly successful. I’m going to be wind at his back on things like inflation. I want him to bring peace around the world,” Curtis said. He further emphasized his commitment to tackling pressing issues such as border security, adding, “I’m really there for him. I want to be helpful. And, ‘Mr. President, from time to time, I’m going to disagree with you. And it will be respectful. And I think when I disagree with you, it will be helpful. And I hope you’ll listen to me.’”

Curtis’s approach reflects a willingness to work collaboratively with the president-elect while maintaining his independence on certain matters. His balanced tone suggests an effort to align with Trump’s agenda while providing constructive feedback when needed.

Curtis steps into the Senate seat previously held by Mitt Romney, who became a prominent critic of Trump during his first term. Romney notably voted to convict Trump in both impeachment trials, cementing his reputation as an independent-minded Republican.

Curtis acknowledged Romney’s principled stance, stating, “Mitt Romney, no matter what you say about him, everybody says he’s true to who he is. And that’s such a great attribute. I wish we could say that about all of us. And if they say that about me when I’m done, I’ll be very happy.”

Romney, who announced his retirement earlier this year, delivered a farewell speech in the Senate on Wednesday, reflecting on his tenure and urging his colleagues to prioritize unity amid increasing partisanship. “I will leave this chamber with a sense of achievement.

But in truth, I will also leave with the recognition that I did not achieve everything I had hoped,” Romney said. He lamented the divisive nature of partisan politics, which he argued has hindered efforts to stabilize the national debt.

Romney highlighted the consequences of ballooning debt, noting that the burden of interest payments limits the nation’s ability to invest in critical areas like military procurement. “Without the burden of the interest on that debt, we would be able to spend three times as much as we do on military procurement,” he said, underscoring the urgency of addressing fiscal challenges.

Curtis’s remarks indicate he plans to chart a path that balances loyalty to the Republican Party and President-elect Trump’s vision with a pragmatic, independent approach. As he prepares to take office, Curtis’s respect for Romney’s legacy suggests he aims to bring a principled, thoughtful voice to the Senate.