Utah: More Hatch Retirement Denials

A bit of internal Utah Republican controversy erupted this week, again over whether Sen. Orrin Hatch (R) will seek re-election.  The Senator continues to say that he plans on running, but the 83-year old seven-term incumbent still leaves the door open that he could change his mind.  He has repeatedly said he would step aside if former GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney would agree to run, for example. 
 
This week, Rep. Mia Love (R-Saratoga Springs) answered an interview question about Hatch’s plans by saying that the Senator “is not sticking around, and we’re trying to get Mitt [Romney to run].”  Yesterday, Hatch’s office spokesperson responded as follows: “while we appreciate the Congresswoman’s (Love) concern for the future of this critical Senate seat, despite her own tightening House race, she has been misinformed.  Sen. Hatch has said he intends to run but will make the final decision by the end of the year.”
 
The “tightening race” comment refers to Salt Lake County Mayor Ben McAdams (D) recently announcing his candidacy against the Congresswoman, a move that could make the 4th District congressional race more competitive next year. 

--Jim Ellis