SALT LAKE CITY — U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) told his friends he plans to retire, according to a report by The Atlantic, which cites five sources familiar with the situation.

Former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney intends to run for Hatch’s seat, the report said.

“Sources [who spoke on condition of anonymity] close to both men said plans have already been set in motion for Hatch to retire and for Romney to run, but they cautioned that the timing of the announcements has not yet been finalized, and that either man could still change his mind.” the report said.

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