​Marriage is often viewed as a personal matter that isn’t usually included in public policy discussions. But a growing body of evidence shows that strong families, anchored by healthy marriages, are among the biggest drivers of upward mobility and long-term success for the next generation. This prompts the question: Does government have a role in promoting – or even trying to strengthen – marriage?   

On this week’s episode, Nic Dunn is joined by three different guests who are leading and executing marriage and family initiatives here in Utah: 

• Brian Higginbotham, Associate Vice President, USU Extension 
• Alan Hawkins, Manager, Utah Marriage Commission 
• Aimee Winder Newton, Senior Advisor to Gov. Spencer J. Cox and Director of the Utah Office of Families 

Each will argue that the government does in fact have an important role helping to strengthen marriage and family, citing examples and best practices here in Utah.  

Show notes: 

• Stronger Marriage – Utah Marriage Commission | USU 
• Healthy Relationships Utah | USU 
• Opinion: A silver anniversary celebration for the Utah Marriage Commission – Deseret News
• Utah Office of Families | Governor Spencer J. Cox 
• Publications | Utah Family Miracle – Sutherland Institute 
• Amazon.com: The Two-Parent Privilege: How Americans Stopped Getting Married and Started Falling Behind: 9780226817781: Kearney, Melissa S. 

Defending Ideas is a weekly podcast produced by Sutherland Institute. On this show we are committed to renewing the principles of common sense conservatism, equipping listeners to become more effective champions of sound principle and good policy. Visit defendingideas.org.