• The gubernatorial race seems to be tightening, but Scott Matheson Jr. may have to draw a sharper contrast between himself and Jon Huntsman Jr. to have a chance to win. Both are smart, attractive, likable candidates and have been very friendly toward each other. But with Utah voters' natural predilection to vote Republican, Matheson has to give them a reason to vote for him. Huntsman, for the most part, has avoided his biggest vulnerability, that of being perceived as a rich kid from a powerful family that wants to run Utah. He has emerged as a leader in his own right and shows just the right touch of self-deprecating humor and an ability to connect with all sorts of people.

Pignanelli: "When you are in a hole, stop digging!" This is sound advice at any time, but especially in political matters (although often ignored).

• Nancy Workman is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars excavating a huge hole, pursuing a non-repentant "blame the media" strategy that disgusts even most Republicans. GOP candidates are anxiously peering over this crater, worried they may fall in if Democrats ever capitalize on Workman's misfortune. Frustrated by the mayor's unwillingness to abandon her candidacy, Republicans can turn to history for guidance.

In June 1976, the popular Congressman Allan Howe was arrested for soliciting two policewomen posing as prostitutes. Despite a conviction, Democrat Howe vigorously maintained his innocence and ignored intense pressure from party leaders to resign his office and candidacy for re-election. Fearful his intransigence would impact other races, high-profile Democrats publicly ostracized Howe and endorsed a write-in candidate. By establishing distance from this pariah, most Democrats were able to avoid repercussions at the polls. To achieve similar results, GOP contenders will need a clear separation from Workman.

• Even strident conservatives admire the brilliant maneuvers conducted by the Don't Amend Alliance — the well-funded (almost $1 million) opponents to the proposed constitutional amendment prohibiting same-sex marriages (Proposition 3). The alliance understands Utahns do not want to redefine traditional marriage but are uncomfortable in seeming intolerant. Armed with a joint statement from all attorney general candidates opposing the amendment, and noncommittal grumbling from Gov. Olene Walker, the alliance has made significant gains.