Fact Check: Governor Cox urges Utahns to pray for rain amid worsening drought
What We Know
Utah Governor Spencer Cox has indeed called for a "Day of Prayer and Fasting for Rain" on June 29, 2025, due to severe drought conditions affecting the state. In his announcement, he stated that nearly half of Utah is currently experiencing drought, with 80% of the state classified as being in "moderate to severe drought" (Caldwell, 2025). This declaration follows a pattern of previous calls for prayer during times of drought, including a similar initiative in 2021 (Caldwell, 2025). The governor's office has emphasized the need for both spiritual and practical actions to address the water crisis, urging residents to conserve water while also seeking divine intervention (Caldwell, 2025).
Analysis
The claim that Governor Cox urged Utahns to pray for rain is substantiated by multiple reliable sources. The official announcement from the [Utah Governor's Office](https://governor.utah.gov/uncategorized/gov-cox-declares-june-29-a-statewide-day-of-prayer-and-fasting-for-rain/#:~:text=SALT%20LAKE%20CITY%20(June%2027,82.9%20percent%20since%20early%20June.) confirms the declaration of June 29 as a day dedicated to prayer and fasting. Additionally, news reports from reputable outlets such as the Salt Lake Tribune and Deseret News corroborate this information, detailing the governor's statements and the context of the ongoing drought.
The sources used in this fact-check are credible, as they originate from official government communications and established news organizations. The Salt Lake Tribune, for instance, is a well-respected local newspaper with a history of accurate reporting on state affairs. Furthermore, the governor's office has actively engaged with faith leaders across various religious traditions to encourage participation in this initiative, which adds a layer of community involvement and support for the claim (Caldwell, 2025).
Conclusion
The claim that Governor Cox urged Utahns to pray for rain amid worsening drought conditions is True. The evidence from official announcements and reputable news sources confirms that the governor has called for a day of prayer and fasting as a response to the severe drought impacting the state.
Sources
- [Gov. Cox declares June 29 a statewide Day of Prayer and Fasting for Rain](https://governor.utah.gov/uncategorized/gov-cox-declares-june-29-a-statewide-day-of-prayer-and-fasting-for-rain/#:~:text=SALT%20LAKE%20CITY%20(June%2027,82.9%20percent%20since%20early%20June.)
- Nearly all of Utah is in drought. Gov. Cox again ...
- Utah governor calls for 'divine help' to address drought
- Gov. Cox declares state day of prayer and fasting for rain
