Mitt Romney set to launch campaign for Senate today

SALT LAKE CITY » Former GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney will announce today that he’s running for the Utah Senate seat held by retiring Orrin Hatch, three people with direct knowledge of the plan confirmed Wednesday.

He’ll be a heavy favorite to keep the seat in Republican hands.

Romney, 70, once a harsh critic of President Donald Trump, will release an online video today announcing his Senate bid. His first public appearance as a Senate candidate will come Friday night at a county Republican dinner in Provo.

Those with knowledge of his plans spoke on the condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorized to speak publicly.

Despite a drama-filled history with Trump, Romney is not expected to address the combative president directly in the announcement video. Those close to him say he plans a hyperlocal focus on Utah issues throughout the Senate campaign.