But not just yet.

Chaffetz announced Friday that he is withdrawing his name from the race for Utah's 2nd Congressional District, a seat now held by Democratic Rep. Jim Matheson, who will seek his fourth term in November 2006.

"It boiled down to a personal decision that my career is best moving forward as the chief of staff." he said. "At some point in time, I really would like to be a candidate."

Chaffetz never officially announced his candidacy but publicly acknowledged his interest in taking on Matheson last week, which created "an immediate distraction" in the governor's office, prompting him to make a decision.

He decided "it's too early to step out of this position." Chaffetz managed Huntsman's campaign and acted as primary spokesman before being hired as chief of staff. One of his first tasks was to fire 33 state economic development executives. He also has acted as one of Huntsman's point people on nuclear waste issues.

"I can't think of an issue I don't touch in some way," Chaffetz said.

Huntsman joked about Chaffetz's decision saying: "Friends don't let friends run for Congress." But seriously, he said: "Jason is a capable and able public servant whose dedication to the office of governor I have been very excited with and I'm glad he will be continuing."

mcanham@sltrib.com