Former Utah Rep. Jason Chaffetz, who resigned in 2017 to take a job with Fox News, said Monday evening. he would not launch a Utah gubernatorial bid next year.
It had been widely rumored that Chaffetz was mulling a bid, but he confirmed to UtahPolicy.com Monday evening that he would not run this cycle.
“After serious consideration, I have decided not to run for Governor of Utah in 2020,” Chaffetz said in a text message. “I may run for office in the future, but I have a different role now with Fox News and working to elect Republicans around the country.”
Chuck Warren, a close associate of Chaffetz, said Monday it’s just not the right time for Chaffetz to step back into the political arena.
“He just isn’t running this cycle,” said Warren. “He is enjoying Fox News and raising money across the country for candidates. His better half is enjoying the freedom and travel with him.”
Current Lt. Governor Spencer Cox has already declared his candidacy for governor in 2020. Former Utah Governor and current ambassador to Russia Jon Huntsman is also said to be considering a campaign to return to the governor’s mansion next year as well.
Other Republicans rumored to be thinking about running include former Utah House Speaker Greg Hughes, Salt Lake County Councilwoman Aimee Winder Newton, former Utah Jazz CEO Greg Miller and Attorney General Sean Reyes.
