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GOP candidate Tanner Ainge on Jazz star Gordon Hayward: 'I hope he stays'

Ravell Call, Deseret News

SALT LAKE CITY — Third Congressional District candidate Tanner Ainge says he doesn't hold much sway over his famous father, Boston Celtics general manager Danny Ainge, at least when it comes to basketball decisions.

That apparently matters to Utah Jazz fans and voters because the Celtics reportedly have an eye on free agent all-star Gordon Hayward.

Social media came alive after Tanner Ainge, a Republican, jumped into the race to replace Rep. Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah, quickly tying his candidacy to the drama over whether Hayward stays or goes. Some fans want him to ask his dad to back off the popular Jazz player.