Former Senate President Resigns

None by KCPW

Mansell "Too Busy" to Finish Term

(KCPW News) Former Senate President Al Mansell has decided to step down six months before his term expires in the Utah Senate. He says he's grown too busy with other responsibilities - including his role as an officer of the National Association of Realtors.

"I wasn't going to be here for much of the rest of the year and thought this was a good time to give someone time to get familiar with the processes up here."

Republican Party delegates from District 9 will meet Monday evening to select Mansell's replacement. Wayne Niederhauser is considered the strong favorite for the appointment, having recently secured the party's nomination for the seat in a close primary. Mansell backs Niederhauser for the seat. County Republican Party Chair James Evans says no matter the delegates' choice, Mansell's seat is virtually guaranteed to stay in the party.

"Wayne doesn't need any extra help to win Senate District 9," says Evans. "It's a strongly Republican Senate district and he (Niederhauser) is well-regarded and well-respected."

Evans hopes to submit a replacement nominee to the Governor in time for confirmation during the Legislature's interim meetings next Wednesday. Mansell served for 12 years in the State Senate, four as president of the body. However, he insists he's "not a politician" and has no plans to run for another office.

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