A New Generation Of Romneys In Politics?

Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman's nomination to serve as U.S. Ambassador to China could mean big things for Josh Romney.

With the nomination, Utah Lt. Governor Gary Herbert is in line to take over for his boss once Huntsman is confirmed by the Senate. But the intrigue is over who Herbert will pick as his lieutenant governor and 2010 running mate?

Herbert is still in the process of deciding. But KSL-TV in Salt Lake City is reporting that Mitt Romney's son, John Romney is a potential pick, and could be an appealing choice that has name recognition.

Romney, 33, is a real estate developer and is the only out of five Romney sons who lives in Utah. His was active in his father's campaign for the Republican presidential nomination last year. As for his own foray into political office, he was encouraged by party officials to run against Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah but he decided against it.

As for this new opportunity, Romney told Desert News that he and Herbert have spoken on several occasions since Gov. Huntsman's decision to take on the new post. The two reportedly met during Mitt Romney's unsuccessful campaign last year.

Romney also told Deseret News that he would have to give the opportunity some serious thought if presented with the offer.

"It's definitely not something I'm actively campaigning for," Josh Romney said. "If it were offered to me, I would give it serious consideration."

He has made it clear that he does not want to run for governor but at the same time, stated that he is fully prepared for the role of lieutenant governor and agrees with Herbert on a lot of different issues.

There seem to be some definite pros and cons to picking Josh Romney as running mate. KSL quotes BYU political science professor Kelly Patterson as saying that the "ticket would provide a great deal of excitement amongst a certain segment of voters. It comes with a certain amount of appeal." But he also warned that there may be "liabilities" in picking someone without a lot of political experience.

Herbert is said to be interviewing candidates over the next few weeks, according to the Deseret News, and will announce his choice after Gov. Huntsman leaves office.