Guest Column: Reflections From the 'Short List'

I remember when Olene Walker selected her Lieutenant Governor. It was a very personal and private choice. The selection of Gayle McKeachnie made it into the media the morning of, but not before.

The last several weeks have been quite different, and have been very personal for me. I thought it would be interesting to share this experience with Utah Policy readers, including several observations and memorable moments.

Lane Beattie is a true statesman and a rare talent. Many thought it was a sure deal that he would enter the 2010 gubernatorial race. Those of us close to him felt something very different. Even though he knew he could be a serious contender, and even though he knew he could guide our state well through difficult times, he also knew that it wasn't right to challenge a worthy incumbent, an intra-party colleague and a close friend.

That's where I entered this discussion.

Once Lane decided not to run, he met with Lt. Governor Herbert and shared his thoughts about state leadership. Somewhere in the mix, Lane offered my name as a potential candidate for Lt. Governor.

Soon after, Lt. Governor Herbert followed up with me, and we began a series of conversations. ... During these discussions, I observed a man who is thoughtful, well prepared and ready for this challenge. Yes, he's different than other leaders I've worked with in that role - Norm Bangerter, Mike Leavitt and Olene Walker. He's certainly different than his predecessor. Bottom line ... Gary Herbert possesses an informed, no-nonsense, nuts-and-bolts style that I think will serve our state well during these challenging economic times.