Jim's conduct is very much in the tradition of his father Scott Matheson Sr. A political maverick who frustrated politicos in his own party, Governor Matheson left office well respected for his independence. Furthermore, Democrats from the second Congressional District have a tradition of political astuteness in demonstrating openness to conservative thought. Wayne Owens defended the rights of gun owners and Karen Shepherd broadcasted her education from BYU. Left of center Utahns are playing a dangerous game. Although experiencing phenomenal success in fund raising through PACs, this nitpicking has resulted in decreased local contributions to the campaign. Matheson's critics justify their election-year harping by assuming John Swallow is too far behind. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Swallow is a personable candidate armed with an impressive state legislative record. Since his 2002 defeat, he has never stopped campaigning. The Republican Party's recent decision to actively support him with more than lip service establishes Swallow as a formidable challenger. For Matheson to survive the huge Republican turnout, Utah Democrats must exhibit pride for an incumbent who has toiled hard in a tough political environment.

• On July 4, and after year of stealth dating, Democratic State Party Chairman Donald Dunn proposed marriage to Salt Lake County Democratic Party Chairwoman Nichole Adams. Nichole has consented to this political merger, but has made no final decision regarding name changes.

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Republican LaVarr Webb was policy deputy to Gov. Mike Leavitt and Deseret News managing editor. He now is a political consultant and lobbyist. E-mail: lwebb@exoro.com. Democrat Frank Pignanelli is Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser. A recent candidate for Salt Lake mayor, Pignanelli served 10 years in the Utah House of Representatives, six years as House Minority Leader. E-mail: frankp@xmission.com.