Politicos have had plenty of hot topics on their somewhat-warped minds the last several days. As always, we provide the questions ... and answers (whether you like it or not):

Is Josh Romney going to become lieutenant governor to Gary Herbert?

Politicos are debating the pros and cons. In some ways, it's a great choice for Gary Herbert, who would benefit from the Romney name and access to dollars. The Romney clan has a national network. However, there's no upside for Josh Romney's father, Mitt Romney. A Romney as lieutenant governor of Utah only furthers the perception of the prospective 2012 presidential candidate as a Utah phenomenon and emphasizes his Mormon ties — something Mitt doesn't need. Also, a lot of Republicans are grumbling that Josh is too young, didn't come up through the Utah political ranks, and is not prepared to be governor should something happen to Herbert. Josh Romney as lieutenant governor is unlikely.

If it's not Romney, who is Herbert's pick?

A lot of good prospects exist, but each has upsides and downsides. The ideal candidate would help Herbert with legislative relationships and with delegates in the state convention next year, but would also be moderate enough to be attractive in the general election against a tough Democrat like Congressman Jim Matheson. This ideal running mate would also be a strong leader and administrator, but not be so ambitious as to be competitive with the governor and chafe at being No. 2.

House Speaker David Clark, Senate Majority Leader Sheldon Killpack and House Majority Leader Kevin Garn are conservative, yet are mainstream, practical problem-solvers. All three are plenty ambitious and would expect a clear shot at the governorship in 2016 if they toiled in Herbert's shadow for seven years. It may be difficult to convince any of them to suffer both a pay and power cut. Rep. Greg Hughes is a savvy political street fighter who would help Herbert with legislative relationships and with delegates. But he's been accused of ethics violations (all dismissed), and would be an easy target for Democrats. Salt Lake Chamber CEO/President Lane Beattie brings Davis County and business leader support, but isn't likely to want to play second fiddle. He may run himself, and would be Herbert's toughest GOP opponent.