WASHINGTON — Just 16 months after his arrival in the Senate, Utah Republican John Curtis is reportedly contemplating a return to state politics as a gubernatorial candidate in 2028. According to sources close to the matter, Curtis' advisers are currently gauging potential support among Utah donors and political allies, urging them to hold off on backing other candidates until Curtis finalizes his decision.

Corey Norman, Curtis' chief of staff, emphasized the senator’s commitment to serving where Utahns want him most. "John Curtis is going to serve where the people of Utah want him to serve," Norman told POLITICO. Curtis, who succeeded former Senator Mitt Romney, has long been recognized as a pragmatic and moderate figure, with his political roots extending back to his tenure as mayor and a business executive before his time in Washington.

However, the increasing polarization in Washington seems to have dampened his enthusiasm for federal office. A Utah Republican operative familiar with Curtis' thinking shared, "He doesn’t love being in the Senate. Trump’s MAGA base sees him as one of the four squishiest Republicans. He’s basically Mitt without the stature."

The potential gubernatorial run is seen as a strategic move as former GOP Representative Jason Chaffetz also eyes the governor's seat, setting the stage for a primary that could reflect broader ideological divides within the party. Chaffetz, a staunch Trump defender and a fixture on Fox News, contrasts sharply with Curtis' more moderate, Reagan-Republican stance and occasional criticism of Trump.

In recent months, as Chaffetz began solidifying his campaign, Curtis has received increasing encouragement to consider his own gubernatorial bid. Initially resistant, Curtis’ stance has notably shifted following discussions with friends and potential supporters. "The first time I asked John about this, his answer was, ‘Have I said hell no lately?’ And now his response has changed dramatically," shared one close friend.

Curtis is also planning a symbolic 250-mile solo walk across Utah to honor the U.S.’ 250th anniversary, providing him with further opportunity to reflect on his political future. Meanwhile, Chaffetz is aggressively courting support, transferring funds from a federal PAC to a state PAC, and positioning himself as the presumptive nominee.

Despite Curtis’ openness about a possible gubernatorial run, some allies and Utah politicos express concerns about the timing of such announcements, arguing that it's too early in the electoral cycle. This sentiment was echoed at a recent gathering of Romney’s allies and former staffers, where the topic of Curtis' potential candidacy was discussed.

As Curtis weighs his options, the political landscape in Utah remains dynamic, with his decision poised to significantly influence the state's political future. Whether he chooses to pursue the governorship or remain in the Senate, Curtis' move will be closely watched as a bellwether for the direction of moderate Republicanism in an increasingly polarized environment.