I’m excited about the upcoming Utah gubernatorial race for a number of reasons. It appears it will attract a group of high-profile, well-qualified candidates. It is also likely to be a relatively high-minded race, focused on ideas and policy, rather than partisanship, ideology and rancor.
The winner will probably be the candidate who can best articulate a big vision for Utah’s future, the person who has far-sighted ideas and real solutions to problems.
The race is attracting interest from some truly top-notch, capable, smart, accomplished leaders. It’s likely not all will end up running, but it’s a very impressive lineup, including Spencer Cox, Jon Huntsman, Greg Miller, Spencer Eccles, Thomas Wright, Greg Hughes, Jeff Burningham and Aimee Newton Winder.
It will be about who really can take Utah to the next level. Who is willing to use up political capital? Who’s willing to lead public opinion instead of following it? Who is willing to make the tough decisions required to make Utah the nation’s No. 1 education state? Who will make the tough decisions to make major steps in air quality? Who will make the tough decisions on transportation to prevent gridlock in the face of rapid growth? Who will protect Utah’s interests, fight for balanced federalism, and seek more independence from a federal government that is flat broke and dysfunctional?
Certainly, all the usual candidate traits like charisma, empathy, and communications skills will be required. And discipline, toughness and leadership qualities are key qualifiers.
But this won’t be a race for prom king or queen. It won’t be a token race to simply anoint an obvious winner. It will be about ideas and solutions. Who will be a Utah version (non-socialistic) of Elizabeth Warren – “I have a plan for that!”
I believe the current slate of candidates is fully capable of running that sort of race. It will be a great clash of ideas and vision.
It will also be fun to watch because it could really divide up the state’s top business and opinion leaders and powerful families in the state.
The eventual winner will be a very fine governor.
