How long can governor, GOP stay on good terms?

Republican legislators and Gov. Gary Herbert seem to have a lovefest going in the early days of the legislative session. Can it last, or will the honeymoon be short?

Pignanelli: "Political honeymoons are similar to most romances. The poetry and passion of love evolves to the swearing and sweat of loathing." — Anonymous

The public affection between Herbert and GOP legislators will endure for at least a year. This is a match "made in heaven" for many reasons. In the short term, Herbert does not have ambitions beyond Utah and therefore will not seek publicity points at the expense of other politicians. Herbert and his campaign are focused on keeping delegates happy to ensure a smooth nomination process. Most legislators have great relationships with their neighborhood party delegates; therefore, if lawmakers are pleased with the governor, the delegates are likely to emulate the same emotion.

In other parts of the country, the tea party and various antigovernment movements are independent or loosely affiliated with the Republican Party. In Utah, numerous GOP lawmakers are the driving force and leaders of these efforts. The net result is the Legislature is controlling both Utah state government and the local current passion underlying American politics. Herbert well understands this and will not irritate these powerful elected officials. There is only an upside to Herbert in keeping legislators comfortable with his leadership style. Of course, the pressing issues of 2012 may demand a different relationship. Until then, it's all hugs and kisses.

Webb: The current level of collegiality between the two branches of government is greater than it's been for years. That can be good or bad, depending on your perspective. But natural tensions still exist between the executive and legislative branches. If Herbert exerts strong leadership, I expect some serious disagreements before session's end. Some differences are already showing up in approaches to bonding and the possible degree of cuts to public education.

If Herbert is a caretaker governor, he will get along just fine with lawmakers because they will take the real leadership in running the state. If he is an activist governor who attacks problems and promotes major new initiatives, there's bound to be some executive-legislative head-butting.

With major health care reform setbacks at the federal level, will the Legislature be able to pass reform at the state level that will really make a difference in access and slowing costs?