Tom Haraldsen: Political Journalist, Editor- Davis Journal, Active Tweeter, Hopeless Romantic

In this episode, Tom discusses his career, local politics, and the proper role of journalism. He's covered all things Davis County while managing editor of the Davis County Clipper and now Editor for The Davis Journal. 

Tom began his journalism career working with Senator Orrin Hatch. Of his experiences he wrote:

"I met Orrin Hatch in 1976, when I was interviewing candidates campaigning for the Republican nomination to run against three-time Democratic incumbent Frank Moss. It was in July, the state convention had been held and Hatch had emerged slightly behind favorite Jack Carlson but with enough delegates to earn a spot in the September primary. Both Carlson and Hatch were making the newspaper interview circuit,

including to the Daily Herald in Provo where I was a reporter.

Hatch came into the newspaper along with his campaign manager, a guy named Mac Haddow. Hatch’s interview with me was much different than Jack Carlson’s. He looked me in the eyes

when he spoke, his answers seemed more sincere and genuine.  Two weeks later, Haddow called me and said, “What do you think of my boy?” I told him I was impressed. He told me Hatch was impressed by me, then asked if I had a desire to help with Hatch’s campaign. It would be volunteer work – no pay and after hours – and I’d have to drive back and forth from Provo to Salt Lake City several times a week to their headquarters. Their office was in a rented house on 400 South across the street from Chuck-A-Rama (the houses were torn down years ago and a hotel now sits on the site). Being a political junkie in those days (as I still am), I jumped at the chance.

So for no pay, on my own time, and simply for the experience, I worked with Orrin for the next eight weeks prior to the primary election. I accompanied him on several public appearances, helping with a few press releases from his campaign, giving him a little media coaching, etc. In turn, I did enjoy some free meals at Chuck-A-Rama and some great experiences working on a national campaign." -"Remembering Orrin Hatch and our First Meeting In Provo" by Tom Heraldson https://www.valleyjournals.com/2022/05/12/400102/remembering-orrin-hatch-and-our-first-meeting-in-provo