Huntsman, Herbert are Utah's political odd couple

Herbert is very loyal to Huntsman. He says they are different but complementary, in perfect harmony on the big goals of running the state well, bolstering the economy and building a great education system. On some issues they differ. When Herbert is asked if he agrees with every position Huntsman has taken, he replies that even he and his wife don't agree on everything. Herbert says both he and Huntsman are "right of center," and he defends Huntsman as a tax-cutter, supporter of school vouchers and as someone with enormous political skills who can negotiate common-sense solutions in the middle ground on divisive political issues. Herbert describes himself as a good soldier whose job is to help Huntsman be the best governor he can be.

Will Huntsman's moderate positions hurt Herbert in his 2012 gubernatorial bid?

It's clearly a tightrope that Herbert must walk. He has to remain loyal, while demonstrating his independence on some issues. But he is helped by the fact that the Huntsman-Herbert administration is enormously popular with the general public, enjoying high approval ratings even in a down economy. Herbert's challenge is to remain popular with the conservative base that is a little annoyed by Huntsman. These conservatives are represented disproportionately in party caucuses and among delegates who will have a big voice in choosing the next GOP gubernatorial nominee.

Herbert is already working hard on his gubernatorial bid. His job portfolio as lieutenant governor, including transportation, rural affairs, water and homeland security, requires him to travel the state, meeting with local political, business and civic leaders. He is already receiving commitments of support from some leaders. He stays in close touch with local party leaders. But some politicos question whether Herbert can successfully establish a separate conservative identity apart from Huntsman.

The dynamics of the 2012 races could be absolutely fascinating, should Huntsman make a serious bid for the presidency and Herbert run for governor. Huntsman would be traveling out of state a great deal. Herbert's visibility might rise. Utahns would likely be split between Huntsman and Romney. Herbert would be asked who he supports for president, his moderate teammate or his conservative earlier choice.

Depending on the policies and success of the Obama administration, delegates to the 2012 Republican state convention may be agitated and seeking change. Some may soon be asking Herbert, "Which of Huntsman's policies and initiatives will you be repealing and reversing?" This will demand of Herbert extreme political nuance and skill.

Herbert's potential opponents include some very savvy politicians who will attempt to exploit any vulnerability they spot. By getting out early, Herbert may be considered the front-runner, a position that comes with a big target on his back. Republicans will soon witness ambitious politicos attempting to align themselves in or out of the Huntsman camp. We're already seeing these divisions playing out in GOP leadership elections. We'll see more of it in 2010 convention and primary races, especially in legislative contests. Interesting times lie ahead.

Republican LaVarr Webb is a political consultant and lobbyist. Previously he was policy deputy to Gov. Mike Leavitt and a Deseret News managing editor. E-mail: lwebb@exoro.com. Democrat Frank Pignanelli is Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser. Pignanelli served 10 years in the Utah House of Representatives, six years as House minority leader. His spouse, D'Arcy Dixon Pignanelli, is a Utah state tax commissioner. E-mail: frankp@xmission.com.