From debating who gets to be a federal judge and the finer points of Medicare policy, to international trade and intelligence matters he can't even talk about, Hatch said he has the right positions on the right committees and connections around Washington that can best serve the state.

"I don't think anyone around here doubts I work hard," Hatch said. "I am certainly not going to let up."

If all goes right for the GOP in 2006 and 2008, Hatch would take over the Senate Finance Committee in 2009, just at the same time Sen. Bob Bennett, R-Utah, would likely take over the Senate Banking Committee — giving Utah a powerful position over the country's financial policies.

"I want to make sure that the government doesn't tax you until you die and then tax you again," Hatch said.

The Senate Finance Committee oversees most major federal programs — Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, trade agreements and tax laws. Because most major bills have tax consequences, Hatch said he will have a hand in almost all major legislation.

"I am in a position to really make sure that Utah, with its small population compared to California with 55 members of Congress — two senators and 53 congressmen — that we can stack up against them very, very well," Hatch said. "I think most people in Washington who have worked here over the years realize you're not going to push Utah around as long as I'm here."

Before this can happen, he needs to get re-elected,and Hatch hopes voters know that he wants to stay in Washington. He said he has a "proven track record of getting things done for Utah" and that it is a "tremendous advantage" for a state to have someone with his experience — and status — in the Senate.

"It is no secret that I have been tremendously blessed to have been able to serve my state for the last 30 years in the United States Senate, and I have given it every effort I possibly can," Hatch said. "I want to build on this record of accomplishment."

While Hatch uses his long history with the Senate as a reason to vote for him, critics — like his Democratic opponent Pete Ashdown — would say it is time for a new voice and a fresh start in the Senate for the state. Some would think he should have followed his wife's advice, retiring while he was ahead, while others feel he has not quite reached the ranks of the late Sen. Strom Thurmond, R-S.C., who died three years ago, just after leaving office, at the age of 100, serving a record 48 years in the Senate.

Larry J. Sabato, director of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia, said an elected official in Hatch's position needs to consider if they can continue to win and what else they want to do with their life.

"Do I want another life outside the Senate before the end comes?" Sabato said. "There has to be some motivation there for another experience."