Abby Osborne
Chief of Staff | Utah House of Representatives
You’ve worked under two different Speakers. How do you navigate leadership transitions while maintaining continuity in the legislative process and staff management?
I’ve had the true honor of working with two incredible Speakers of the House during my six years as chief of staff. Each of them led at exactly the right time, helping our state grow, prosper and maintain a standard of excellence.
The leadership transition was seamless because of the strength of our leadership team and the stability of the legislature. We’re fortunate to have an exceptional staff that understands that, regardless of who holds the gavel, our core objectives remain the foundation of our work and the driving force behind the legislative agenda.
What approaches have been most effective in building consensus among staff and lawmakers?
When I came into this role, one of the first things I recognized was the need for the legislature to establish clear, statewide goals — objectives that every region and every community could see as a win. I’m proud of how we’ve worked together to build those priorities into real, meaningful accomplishments for the citizens of Utah.
A great example is the work on the Great Salt Lake. Speaker Wilson made it a top priority to elevate and save the lake — not just through words, but through action. Our team and the legislature came together to pass monumental legislation focused on water conservation and strategic water management across the state.
Consensus comes when people see their priorities reflected in the process, and that’s what we’ve worked hard to deliver.
How do your roles as Chair of the Inland Port Board and 2034 Utah Olympic Committee member complement your legislative work?
Both of these roles complement my work at the Capitol because they keep me grounded in the long-term vision for Utah. I get to see firsthand how policy decisions translate into real-world outcomes — whether it’s building infrastructure, expanding economic opportunity or preparing for a global stage. It gives me a unique perspective on how we can continue to position Utah as a leader, both nationally and internationally.
What specific practices have you implemented to foster a balance between family and professional excellence?
My staff is young, driven and passionate, and many are at the stage of life where they’re building both careers and families. I’ve always believed you shouldn’t have to choose between the two. I am a mom first and a chief of staff second, and my own family keeps me grounded in what matters most. One of the best pieces of advice I ever received was, “No one will remember if you were at that meeting, but your kid will remember if you missed their game — so go to the game.”
