Mitt Romney launched a campaign video on Friday, November 16, that got Utah buzzing. In his video, he announced that he’ll be running for U.S. Senate representing the state of Utah. According to various sources, Romney may have this race in the bag.
In his video, Romney praised Utahans and criticized federal dysfunction. He called out Washington for its lack of organization and applauded Utah, saying he wants to bring “Utah’s values to Washington.”
Not only has Romney asked for Utah voters’ support, but he has been reaching out to Utah Republican lawmakers through phone calls this past week. Most have expressed their support for Romney’s decision to run.
Utah GOP Chairman, Rob Anderson, says, “I’ve had no doubt that Mitt Romney satisfies all qualifications to run for Senate, [and] as a chairman of the Utah Republican Party, I will treat all candidates equally to ensure their path to the party nomination is honest and fair.”
Sen. Curt Bramble, R-Provo, and Utah House Majority Leader Brad Wilson, R-Kaysville both share the belief that, “Mitt has the temperament and skills to effectively represent Utah in the U.S. Senate,” and that Romney “[brings] a national perspective.”
With Romney’s well-known name, due to his the 2012 presidential run against Obama, GOP State Auditor John Dougall feels the odds are in Romney’s favor.
Dougall told KSL News that if he gets in the race, he knows his odds of winning are slim given Romney’s name recognition, likability among Utahns and “piles of money.” In addition, he believes Utahns ought to think about what they want from their senator.
“We need to understand where Mr. Romney stands before we decide where he’ll sit,” Dougall says.
With Romney’s high potential of gaining the majority of votes and his well-known reputation, Gov. Gary Herbert believes that Romney will serve his state and country well.
“We have people making all kinds of comments as if somehow he won’t represent Utah … But as you know, our senators represent the nation. They happen to reside here in Utah,” Herbert says.
Many believe Romney’s voice will make a big impact in Washington, especially with Trump. Longtime Romney supporter Kirk Jowers believes “… when Trump becomes unnecessarily divisive or offensive, I think he’ll probably see Mitt continue to be the voice of reason and conscience for the Republican Party,” he said.
With copious amounts of support and a strong name, Romney’s odds of gaining the votes of Utah’s citizens seem strong. Romney seems determined to gain the favor of his home state, and it seems he already has it from Utah Republicans.
While some may feel it’s unnecessary to pay attention, it’s important for Utahns to stay engaged throughout the race. Romney may seem like the “no-brainer” or guaranteed choice, but the outcomes of these races have an impact. It’s important not to forfeit your time and energy from seeing this race through.