Salt Lake Tribune: Lt. Governor Bell Calling It Quits - Updated

Perhaps it's time for beleaguered Attorney General John Swallow to start thinking about the long-term pecuniary benefits of private sector employment himself?

Interesting story from the Salt Lake Tribune, reporting that Utah Lieutenant Governor Greg Bell, freshly "cleared" of criminal allegations by the Davis County Attorney's office, seems also to be "freshly cured" of his motivation for public service, and is flying the financially-stifling coop of Utah government, and re-entering the private sector:

• Utah Lt. Gov. Greg Bell to step down, return to private sector

"Bell, a former real estate attorney, said the recession took a toll on his [real estate] industry, creating financial strain. That and the need to shore up his footing for retirement — he turns 65 next month — prompted him to make the move," the Trib's Robert Gehrke reports.

Bell currently brings down a measly "$104,000 plus benefits," according to Mr. Gehrke's story.

The pending question:  Which fat-cat Utah real estate lobbying firm will soon be adding Mr. Bell to their payroll?

Special note to beleaguered Attorney General John Swallow:  Perhaps it's time to follow Lt. Governor Bell's lead, and start thinking about the long-term pecuniary benefits of private sector employment yourself.

Just a helpful thought from yer old pal  Rudi.

Update 9/18/13 6:15 a.m.: The Standard provides a followup story, rife with speculation about possible candidates for Lt. Governor Bell's replacement:

• Top of Utah candidates lining up to replace Lt. Gov. Bell

State Senator Stuart Reid? Give us a break!