Even though he promised this term would be his last, Sen. Orrin Hatch seems to be moving closer to backing out on that promise.
Politico adds to the speculation that Hatch will run for another term in 2018, quoting unnamed Republicans in Washington and Utah who say he will probably wait until after the 2016 election to make a decision.
The website reports Hatch has been sending strong signals to fellow Republicans that he is thinking about another term.
“I don’t think he’s made a decision. I don’t think that will happen until after the election. He should wait and see if he wins the majority,” said one top Utah GOP consultant operative on Tuesday. “He is legitimately thinking about it but I think one reason to stay on the fence for as long as possible is you maintain relevance and legitimacy.”
“He hasn’t ruled it out. And he’s also going to wait and see what happens in this election,” said a second Republican operative in the state. “He hasn’t really decided what he’s going to do for sure.”
Hatch might face some stiff competition in two years. Former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman is reportedly eyeing an independent bid for Hatch’s seat.
