Several Utah Republicans tell UtahPolicy.com that Rep. Dan McCay, R-Riverton, is gearing up for a U.S. Senate run, possibly against Mitt Romney.
When asked for comment on the rumors that he was preparing to run for the U.S. Senate seat that’s open because of Sen. Orrin Hatch’s retirement, McCay gave UtahPolicy.com a “no comment,” then said he’s focused on the upcoming legislative session.
McCay has long been rumored to have his eye on a congressional bid.
McCay would have a good chance to advance to a primary election, possibly against Romney. He’s well-liked by the more conservative wing of the Utah Republican party, and he’s scored high in many legislative “report cards” published by conservative and right-wing groups. It’s not out of the realm of possibility that McCay would be able to win the delegate vote at the Utah GOP convention, putting him in the primary.
GOP sources say McCay believes he would be able to attract national PAC money from conservative groups who do not want to see Romney, who has been a harsh critic of President Trump, win the election for Senate.
At least four Republicans have already filed to gather signatures to get on the 2018 GOP primary ballot.
