LAYTON, Utah — A routine newsgathering effort turned into a physical confrontation Wednesday morning when Utah state senator Jerry Stevenson swiped a reporter's phone out of his hand, according to KTVX reporter Bayan Wang.
The incident occurred at J&J Nursery and Garden Center, a business owned by Stevenson, a Republican from Layton. Stevenson sits on the board of the Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA), which recently approved a large-scale data center in Box Elder County.
Background of the Data Center Dispute
On Monday, the Box Elder County Commission approved multiple resolutions to partner with MIDA on the data center project in a rural area. The decision sparked backlash, leading to calls for a boycott of Stevenson's nursery. KTVX reported that a woman entered the nursery screaming at employees, nearly prompting a call to police.
In a statement, J&J Nursery acknowledged the controversy: “We understand that recent public decisions have prompted strong feelings and concerns. While our owner is connected to a public role, we kindly ask that all interactions with our team remain respectful and considerate.”
The Confrontation
Wang arrived at the nursery Wednesday to report on the harassment employees were facing. While in his vehicle in the parking lot, he saw a man—later identified as Stevenson—screaming at Wang's photographer, who was outside without a camera. Wang approached and asked about the confrontation.
Stevenson, wearing a Utah Senate jacket, refused to confirm his identity when asked. Wang began recording on his cellphone, explaining that his story aimed to highlight the harassment the business was experiencing. Stevenson responded, “You know this whole thing is just a bunch of baloney,” as he approached Wang.
Wang informed Stevenson that ABC4 had been in contact with executive staff at the nursery. Stevenson then ordered Wang to leave, saying, “Just get your butt out of here.” When Wang asked, “Why are you being hostile to us?” Stevenson replied, “Because I am tired of ya,” before swiping his hand toward Wang, striking his hand and phone and knocking the device onto the cement.
Political Implications
The incident underscores the heated tensions surrounding data center development in Utah, a topic that has drawn attention from figures like Kevin O'Leary, who defended the project amid out-of-state protest claims. Meanwhile, the altercation raises questions about how elected officials handle public criticism. Senator Armstrong's push to fix permitting for energy infrastructure highlights the broader debate over large-scale projects.
Stevenson has not publicly commented on the physical confrontation. Wang has not indicated whether he will file a complaint. The Utah state legislature has not announced any investigation into the senator's conduct.
The data center project remains a flashpoint in Box Elder County, with supporters citing economic benefits and opponents raising concerns about environmental impact and property values. As the controversy continues, this incident adds a personal dimension to a policy dispute.
