Rep. Mia Love, R-Utah, claims an “overheard” conversation was “reported out of context” after a Politico reporter claimed it was about Utah Sen. Orrin Hatch’s future plans.
“There was a tweet about an overheard conversation which was reported out of context,” she wrote in a statement Wednesday. “I never mentioned whether Senator Hatch is running or not, and the staffers with me can confirm this. I have great respect and admiration for Senator Hatch. I appreciate his friendship and support for me throughout my career, and I will continue my long-running support for him”
Politico reporter Colin Wilhelm tweeted earlier in the day that he witnessed Love answer a question about a potential Senate run with “no, but Hatch isn’t sticking around. We’re trying to get Mitt.” That was an apparent reference to Mitt Romney, who has reportedly considered a run for the Senate should Hatch retire.
Hatch’s office responded to the alleged comment by noting that he has not finalized his plans for re-election but “when that decision is made, he will make the announcement himself.”
Wilhelm acknowledged the congresswoman’s response but held that his reporting “included full context.”
