Published by Paul Ivinskas
Sunday, October 25, 2026

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Public officials and candidates

Scott M. Matheson

Former governor of Utah (1977–1985)

Scott M. Matheson speaking at the USS Salt Lake City commissioning ceremony, May 12, 1984; existing Wikimedia Commons crop
Governor Scott M. Matheson addresses guests at the USS Salt Lake City commissioning ceremony in Norfolk, Virginia, May 12, 1984. Photo: PH2 Wujcik/U.S. Navy; public domain in the United States. Existing Wikimedia Commons crop. Photo: PH2 Wujcik / U.S. Navy · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Government service

Former governor of Utah (1977–1985)

Historical profile of completed public service; no current elected office or candidacy is assigned.

Background

Scott M. Matheson served two terms as Utah governor from 1977 to 1985. The Utah State Archives identifies energy development, water management, state and federal land exchanges and wilderness decisions as major issues during his administration. He also dealt with proposals to base the MX missile system in Utah, the transfer of nerve-gas weapons to Tooele Army Depot and the effects of nuclear testing on southern Utah residents. Severe flooding and mudslides in 1983 created another major challenge. His governorship is historical and distinct from the judicial career of Scott M. Matheson Jr.

Source: Utah State Archives — Governor Matheson · Background checked October 20, 2026

In the news

No Utah Ledger stories name Scott M. Matheson yet.

Sources

  1. Utah State Archives — Governor Matheson

Background sources checked October 20, 2026. See something wrong? Tell us.

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