Because Jim Matheson has become a popular elected official (at the expense of some Democratic affection) and father Scott Matheson Sr. is still revered, there is a belief the goodwill in the Matheson brand-name will be key in motivating moderate Republicans and independents to support Scott Matheson Jr. This is a serious possibility, but the polling indicates Utahns want Scott to demonstrate, by words and actions, he is a Matheson like his father and brother. Sharing the surname may help in fund raising, but voters to date are distinguishing between the siblings.

• Dan Jones predicts a factor in the gubernatorial race will be the perceived performance in the debates. He advises politicos to follow media reports on the contests.

• As we noted in our column some months ago, Congressman Howard Nielsen lost his beloved wife, Julie. Last week, the former Utah speaker married Donna Brown, sister to Congressman Ronald Packard of California. We wish the couple well.

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Republican LaVarr Webb was policy deputy to Gov. Mike Leavitt and Deseret News managing editor. He now is a political consultant and lobbyist. E-mail: lwebb@exoro.com. Democrat Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser. A recent candidate for Salt Lake mayor Pignanelli served 10 yeras in the Utah House of Representatives, six years as House minority leader. E-mail: frankp@xmission.com