Pignanelli: When outgoing Democratic State Party chairman Donald Dunn departs for his honeymoon in June (with outgoing Salt Lake County Democratic Party chairwoman Nicole Adams), he will leave more than just bachelorhood. His energetic and sometimes controversial style energized friends and detractors to either continue or alter the direction he set for the party. Veteran Democrats cannot recall in the past 25 years when the chairman's race has attracted so many contenders. While such enthusiasm is welcome news for Utah Democrats, the direction of the party is at stake.

The wannabes to replace Dunn are incredibly diverse in philosophical leanings and political acumen. Current Vice Chairwoman Nancy Woodsides has won several delegate battles in prior campaigns. Former Attorney General Paul Van Dam was the early favorite to win the race, but he is on an extended sailing trip and will miss the county conventions and other opportunities to schmooze with delegates. Park City businessman and Summit County Party chairman Mike Marty is a well-known moderate. Community and low-income-rights activist Leon Johnson has also filed. Fresh from her legislative internship, Young Democratic leader Tracy VanWagoner is contemplating a bid as well as former legislative candidate Jan Lovett.

This election may coalesce into a struggle between the two candidates who possess extensive organizing experience, special interest group support and the backing of the titular leaders of Utah Democrats. Former Green Party congressional candidate Craig Axford (who converted to the Democratic faith in 2003) now leads the ultra-left Progressive Caucus, which will provide him a formidable base of delegates. His Green Party background has many traditional Democrats anxious; some have threatened defection if he is elected. Wayne Holland Jr. and his father Wayne Holland are longtime beloved figures within the labor movement and the Democratic Party. A charismatic and attractive union organizer, Holland Jr. brings a wealth of knowledge and a bucket full of labor delegates. Axford has a close personal relationship with Rocky Anderson (although no formal endorsement yet) and the rabid support of the Rockyites. Holland was encouraged to run by Congressman Jim Matheson and other moderate factions inside the party.

The Matheson family has always refrained from involvement in internal party elections. The aggressive entry by the congressman into this foray is a welcome activity, as Democrats are in need of his pragmatic skills and statewide popularity. Rocky and Matheson understand the importance of a sympathetic party leader. Although their names will not be on the ballot, the election for chairman will be a clear choice for where Democrats want to go — Rocky or Matheson — and their well-known differences of personality and priorities.