Since the caucus was closed, I don't know exactly what went on in that Capitol Hill room for eight hours last Tuesday. But I'm guessing a number of House Republicans were smiling and a bit giddy as they considered how they would one-upsmanship not only Huntsman but legislative Democrats and Senate Republicans — whose leaders say they are more in line with Huntsman's $60 million cut.

All 75 House members are up for election in 2006. And no doubt the 56 Republicans were glad to see those screaming headlines: "Republicans suggest biggest tax cut in history."

Just before the 1996 Legislature, then-Gov. Mike Leavitt, a Republican, facing his first re-election in 1996, suggested a $30 million tax cut. He thought that was pretty good considering all the tax revenue flowing into the state that year.

Democratic lawmakers a few weeks later gathered and came out calling for a $60 million tax cut — doubling Leavitt's bet.

The first day of the session, GOP House and Senate members went into closed caucus only to come out suggesting a $90 million tax cut. All of a sudden Leavitt and Democrats looked pretty bad.

Clearly, House Republicans this time around weren't going to play second fiddle to any tax-cutters. They threw out a number that probably no one can top.

By late February we'll know if it stands up, gets cut down, or even grows in size.

And after lawmakers adjourn March 1, maybe Utahns finally can start considering how they will spend some extra money next year.

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Deseret Morning News political editor Bob Bernick Jr. may be reached by e-mail at bbjr@desnews.com