Michael O. Leavitt Center for Politics & Public Service

Governor Leavitt’s Relationship with the Legislature Governor Leavitt’s relationship evolved throughout his time in office, and it started out better than it ended. Robin Riggs, former General Counsel for Governor Leavitt until 1997, was privy to many of the conversations with and about the Governor during his tenure. If someone had an issue with the Governor, they could bring it up with him. At times, he would get a call from a senator or representative and then he would raise the issue with Governor Leavitt. He was the liaison for many people, although Lieutenant Governor Olene Walker was also involved to an extent. He believed that because he worked on the staff, he was accessible and trusted as he helped explain policies or helped smooth over any issues. Riggs was sure that the Governor was even more effective on his own when he talked to people about policies and issues. When Riggs left in 1997, he was told by some that they felt that direct access was lost between Governor Leavitt, the legislature, and staffers. Riggs was succeeded by Gary Doxey as General Counsel to the Governor in October of 1997. Doxey had worked for four years as associate general (more…)