Walker's entry spices up gov race

Pignanelli: Because the political environment is always changing and full of surprises, we politicos are addicted to the election process. But what really compels interest is when a grandmother, who happens to be governor and is supposed to retire gracefully, declares her candidacy. Olene Walker's announcement last week will have a tremendous impact on an already confusing governor's race but could also affect local elections.

Walker brings substantial assets to her campaign. She has clear name identification and astronomical approval ratings. The governor gained significant respect in defending public education and progressive tax policies in the legislative session. By holding her own among the "guys," she has the support of many moderate Republicans, independents and Democrats. She can rightfully claim ownership of the "Leavitt-Walker Legacy."

However, the governor does face obstacles. The media, legislators and other candidates gave her a "free pass" from criticism — a substantial reason for her popularity. The love fest is over. Now, other gubernatorial candidates must aggressively critique the "Leavitt-Walker Legacy." Because of her late entry, she is behind in building a campaign structure. In fact, Walker has serious legal restrictions on her ability to raise money until the end of the legislative veto period — March 23 (also the date for political caucuses that determine delegates). Further, the Republican primary is closed to Democrats and independents, which hampers a campaign against a more conservative Republican.

Candidates carving out support among conservatives will benefit from another moderate Republican in the fray. These include House Speaker Marty Stephens, former Congressman Jim Hansen, Utah County Commissioner Gary Herbert and businessman Fred Lampropoulos. Because he offered the first, albeit brief, inter-party challenge to the Leavitt administration in 2000, Stephens can uniquely claim to be the conservative voice in state government. Other candidates could suffer a setback. Board of Regents Chairman Nolan Karras is thought to be impacted the most as he can no longer hold the Leavitt torch. Industrialist/ philanthropist Jon Huntsman Jr. can deflect potential harm to his campaign by keeping the "generational message" on focus in the recruitment of delegates. The Huntsman strategy of reaching out to younger Republicans could receive a boost from Walker in the contrast of age and style.