GOP Presidential Debate in Salt Lake City Stirs Excitement

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Utah Republican leaders are hailing Salt Lake City's first selection ever to host presidential debate next month as recognition that Utah is more than just a fly-over state.

The Republican National Committee announced over the weekend that it was adding a March 21 debate in Salt Lake City. That's the day before Utah's caucus and Arizona's primary. The time and location have not been finalized.

Utah Republican Party Chairman James Evans said Monday landing the debate shows the state has become a place presidential candidates must visit. Evans believes the debate will drive larger turnout in Utah's caucus.