Political insiders are already chattering about who might make a run for governor in 2016, all of it premised on the idea that, if Gov. Gary Herbert wins re-election on Nov. 6, it will be his last term in office.
There's one guy who might still have something to say about that: Gov. Gary Herbert.
In a recent interview, Herbert said he's leaving his options open for 2016, assuming he retains the office Nov. 6.
"Who knows? It would be premature to say. I obviously have got this campaign to do," Herbert said. "2016 is what you're asking about. That's a long time away. It's way too early to make that decision, but I certainly haven't ruled out running again."
If Herbert decides to run again and wins in 2016, he would be on track to become the second-longest serving governor in Utah history. Cal Rampton was elected and served three terms. Mike Leavitt served 2 ½ terms 10 years and 10 months to be exact.
Herbert could clock in at 11 years and four months if he were to leave office in January 2020.
Robert GehrkeTwitter: @RobertGehrke