Huntsman Chief of Staff Jason Chaffetz confirmed Wednesday that Blackham - who will end his tenure this year as Senate chairman of the powerful Executive Appropriations Committee - is in the running for a job. And Blackham, a Moroni Republican and turkey farmer, said he would be interested in taking over as state agricultural commissioner.

If Blackham is offered the job and accepts, he would have to resign his Senate seat, leaving a vacancy that may be filled by Rep. Darin Peterson, R-Nephi, who narrowly lost a primary election challenge of Blackham.

"I would be very interested in the [Senate seat] and I would actively pursue it," Peterson said

Blackham, a 12-year member of the Senate, has held several leadership roles, including majority whip, but he did not receive a single committee chairmanship for the coming session.

He said Wednesday that an appointment as agricultural commissioner is "something I'm willing to consider."

"That would be very beneficial to this area," said Blackham, a principle in Moroni Feed, one of the state's largest producers of turkeys. "Central Utah has become the farm basket of Utah."

Chaffetz said no decision has been made, though there could be announcements next week when the Huntsman transition team makes recommendations. Blackham "is a candidate for a couple spots, but we're going to let that play out," Chaffetz said, adding that it is a "distinct possibility" that Blackham will get a post.

Blackham didn't want to talk about the possibility of Peterson taking his seat. "It won't be my decision," Blackham said.

If Blackham, who just won re-election, left his Senate seat, delegates from every precinct in his six-county district would meet in a mini-convention and nominate a replacement. That name would be forwarded to the governor, who would appoint a new senator.

Incoming Senate President John Valentine said he had discussions with Huntsman about Blackham receiving a job in the new administration, but he said there was no deal brokered.

Ironically, if Blackham is appointed to head the Agricultural Department, he would replace current Commissioner Cary Peterson, the father of Darin Peterson.

tburr@sltrib.com