SALT LAKE CITY (Jan. 13, 2026) — The Utah Transit Authority today announced that it has named Paul Ray as government relations director. Ray will lead the UTA Government Relations Department and act as liaison between UTA and state and federal policymakers.

“We are so fortunate to have Paul Ray join UTA in this role,” said Carlton Christensen, chair of the UTA board of trustees. “Paul’s policy, fiscal and political expertise will be valuable assets as we continue to advocate for transit as a critical part of Utah’s growing economy. I am excited to work alongside him to more effectively serve our riders and the growing community in which they live.”

Before joining UTA, Paul Ray was the director of legislative affairs with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, where he oversaw government relations strategy, advised executive leaders, advanced agency policy positions, and cultivated trusted relationships with policymakers and the community. Prior to that role, Ray served in the Utah House of Representatives from 2001 to 2021, representing District 13 in Davis County. During his time in office, he chaired influential committees such as Social Services Appropriations and the 2021 Redistricting Committee. He has earned a reputation as a diplomat and a closer, capable of guiding high-priority legislation through challenging political environments.

###