Full Breakdown
Investigation Launched into Utah Supreme Court Justice Diana Hagen
4/17/2026, 11:43:45 PM
Allegations and Initial Inquiry
Utah's Governor Spencer Cox, Senate President Stuart Adams, and House Speaker Mike Schultz have initiated an independent investigation into Supreme Court Justice Diana Hagen. This action follows allegations of an inappropriate relationship with attorney David Reymann, who has argued cases before the court, particularly concerning redistricting. The allegations originated from a complaint filed by Hagen's ex-husband, Tobin Hagen, who claimed that his former wife exchanged "inappropriate" text messages with Reymann. Both Hagen and Reymann have denied these allegations, labeling them as false.
The initial inquiry by the Judicial Conduct Commission concluded without further action, prompting state leaders to express concern over unresolved questions regarding transparency and public trust in the judicial system. In a joint statement, they emphasized the necessity of a thorough examination to maintain confidence in public institutions.
Background of the Allegations
The allegations stem from Tobin Hagen's claims that he discovered suggestive text messages between Diana Hagen and Reymann during their social interactions in late 2024. The case in question, *League of Women Voters of Utah v. Utah State Legislature*, has significant implications, as it addresses the legality of legislative actions that sought to override a ballot measure aimed at preventing partisan gerrymandering. The Utah Supreme Court ruled unanimously in favor of the plaintiffs in July 2024, asserting that the legislature had overstepped its authority.
Michael Worley, an attorney who filed the complaint with the Judicial Conduct Commission, stated that he felt compelled to disclose the information he received from Tobin Hagen. However, he noted that he had no independent knowledge of the allegations beyond what was communicated to him.
Official Statements and Responses
Justice Diana Hagen has publicly denied any wrongdoing, asserting, "I never operated under a conflict of interest while performing my judicial duties." She recused herself from the redistricting case in September 2025 and has stated that she took prompt and transparent actions in response to the allegations, including reporting them to the Judicial Conduct Commission.
In their statement, Governor Cox and legislative leaders reiterated the importance of transparency, saying, "Allegations of this nature, especially involving public officials, must be examined with transparency and accountability to establish the facts and to maintain public confidence."
Criticism and Opposition
Democratic leaders in the Utah legislature have criticized the decision to pursue an independent investigation, arguing that the matter has already been addressed and raising concerns about potential overreach and separation of powers. They contend that the previous investigation by the Judicial Conduct Commission was sufficient.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
The Judicial Conduct Commission's investigator noted that while further investigative steps could have been taken, such as interviewing the involved parties or subpoenaing text messages, the evidence was deemed insufficient to warrant such actions. This has led to differing opinions on whether the allegations merit further scrutiny.
What's Next
The independent investigation's timeline and specific details regarding its execution remain unclear. State leaders have committed to ensuring that the process is conducted objectively and thoroughly to uphold the integrity of Utah's judicial system.
