Utah Republicans are well aware that Workman's continued candidacy will drive their usual mainstay voters and independents across party lines in more than just the mayor's election. The County Council contests go to the Democrats, and already close legislative races in Salt Lake County become problematic for GOP incumbents to hold. Whatever chance John Swallow had against Jim Matheson evaporates. Jon Huntsman Jr. is currently ahead in the polls, yet a portion of the support is soft, and after 60 days of Workman bashing, this group could be persuaded to elect Scott Matheson Jr.

Politicos will be watching if Republicans work miracles and legally remove Workman and replace her with a viable candidate. Obviously, a party regular with high name identification and access to resources is the most competitive substitute. Successful businessman and well-respected gubernatorial candidate Fred Lampropoulos is frequently mentioned, as is Sandy Mayor Tom Dolan.

Peter Corroon is a soft-spoken, intelligent business leader who was willing to challenge the once invincible Workman. That courage means something. Furthermore, his quiet demeanor — a disability in politics — could well be the therapy Salt Lake County voters seek this turbulent season.

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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 a 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.