Dubious honors for those in Utah government

What Have You Done for Me Lately Award. Honors the best evidence that involvement in the Huntsman campaign does not guarantee unconditional employment. The three nominees are:

• Huntsman campaign director and former chief of staff Jason Chaffetz, who was willing to make tough decisions but unable to build legislative and strategic alliances.

• Top level campaign adviser, transition director and fund-raiser Greg Hopkins, a good friend of the governor who was hired by a controversial client.

• Campaign director of research and former Commerce Department director Russell Skousen, a loyal Huntsman soldier who fired Roger Ball and actually believed the Legislature would increase his salary. (Judges' note: All three nominees submitted their resignations.)

The winner: Greg Hopkins. A respected and experienced political operative, Hopkins was a key insider to the Huntsman campaign and administration. He assumed the role as chief fund-raiser for a governor who is obviously uncomfortable soliciting donations. Unfortunately for Hopkins, the news media provided extensive coverage of Hopkins' contract to provide federal government relations services to Envirocare of Utah, just when Envirocare was seeking state approval for expansion. Although the relationship with Envirocare (which has new owners) did not violate any ethical guidelines, Huntsman did not want any confusion about his strong stance against waste disposal in Utah. As a result, Hopkins graciously severed formal ties with the governor (fund raising and director for Huntsman's Utah Policy Partnership). Strong proof that radioactivity is contagious.

The Whispering in the Ear Award. Honors the Utahn who hears a little whispering in his ear and believes it is the Mormon Tabernacle Choir singing the Hallelujah Chorus, to paraphrase the late Wayne Owens. (Judges' note: Normally, several nominees would be eligible for this award, but this year one person was so outstanding in this category that he deserves the award without pretense of competition.)