John R. Curtis is a Republican politician serving as a Senator from Utah since his election in 2024. Born on May 10, 1960, in Ogden, Utah, he graduated from Skyline High School in 1978 and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University in 1985. Curtis's early career included roles as a sales representative and business executive, alongside a significant political journey beginning as the Mayor of Provo, Utah, from 2009 to 2017, and later as a Representative in the U.S. House from 2017 to 2025, which he filled by special election after the resignation of Jason Chaffetz.

As a new member of the U.S. Senate, Curtis is actively involved in several key committees that reflect his legislative priorities. He serves on the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee; the Foreign Relations Committee; and the Environment and Public Works Committee, among others. These committee assignments enable him to influence a range of issues including transportation, climate change, and consumer protection.

Curtis has sponsored various bills reflecting his focus areas, particularly concerning environmental policy, energy initiatives, and fiscal responsibility. Among significant legislation, he introduced the Water Conservation Rebate Tax Parity Act (SB857) to promote water conservation in Utah, which is currently referred to the Committee on Finance. He co-sponsored the Co-Location Energy Act (SB896), aimed at streamlining energy resource management. As a supporter of environmental oversight, he sponsored the Basin Fund Preservation Act (SB887), intended to secure funding for critical water services, now waiting for further evaluation in the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

Curtis has also focused on regulatory issues in the environmental sector, notably through the joint resolution (SJR31) aimed at nullifying an Environmental Protection Agency rule concerning hazardous air pollutants, reflecting his commitment to revising federal environmental regulations to better support state-level governance.

In terms of political ideology, Curtis aligns with conservative principles, emphasizing limited government intervention and promoting economic development through fiscal responsibility. His legislative efforts suggest a focus on deregulation and promoting state rights, particularly in areas concerning environmental management and tax policy. Curtis has shown particular interest in elevating state capabilities in matters ranging from natural resource management to regulatory frameworks regarding public lands.

On a personal level, Curtis maintains a family-oriented lifestyle and has shared insights into his private life, stating that he enjoys the support of a close-knit family who values public service. His previous experience as a mayor provides a foundational understanding of local governance, which he applies in his current legislative role, advocating for policies that strengthen local communities and economies.