Neither Diaz nor Reyna could be reached for comment. Reyna told the Spanish language newspaper Mundo Hispano that he wasn't supporting Romero because he's Latino, "but I am sure that he will help the Latinos, once he is elected."

Diaz e-mailed a statement to the Deseret Morning News clarifying that the Republican Hispanic Assembly hasn't endorsed Romero.

"The Utah Republican Hispanic Assembly has been consistent in endorsing Republican candidates who it believes will help issues important to the Hispanic community," Diaz's statement said.

He noted that three years ago, the group supported Republican James Evans for a state Senate seat when he ran against two Hispanics.

Jeff Hartley, executive director of the Utah Republican Party, said campaign support on the local level is often based as much on personal relationship as it is on party affiliation.

"I'm sure some of those folks are close to Ross Romero, just as there are several Democrats who are close to Bryce Jolley," he said.

Hartley said the district is a "very competitive" one, adding "despite those few Republicans who are supporting Ross, he's going to have to work real hard to win that seat."

Romero said he welcomes the support from both sides of the aisle and said he's seen similar support within the legal and educational communities.

"They liked what I had done on the Hill, they liked how I was able to work with both parties, they liked how I was effective," Romero said. "I just appreciate all the support people are willing to lend."

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E-mail: dbulkeley@desnews.com