Gordon and Marlon Snow know they are a curiosity to their colleagues in Utah's House of Representatives.
"All the representatives watch intensely to see if we vote the same way. They always say, 'Well, how could two people from the same home, who were taught the same things, vote differently.' But sometimes it happens. (Gordon) sees things one way, and I see them another," Marlon said.The brothers, both Republicans, are the first relatives to have been sworn into the House at the same time.
Gordon, who lives in Roosevelt, was elected to the House in November, and his younger brother, Marlon, of Orem, was appointed to the House after serving as chairman of the State Board of Education and as chairman of the Utah Valley State College (UVSC) Foundation.
There have been only three instances where blood relatives have worked simultaneously in the Legislature. All three involved sets of brothers.
Franklin Knowlton served from 1967 to 1990 and Ute Knowlton worked with him in the House from 1981 to 1986.
Former Rep. Glen Brown and current Rep. Mel Brown, R-Murray, also worked together for five years from 1987 to 1992 as their terms overlapped.
The Browns are the only brothers to serve as speaker. Glen presided over the chamber from 1987-88, and Mel filled the position from 1995-98.
While lawmakers may watch to see if the Snows think and vote alike, neither brother claims to have a specific agenda. They both say they are still learning the process and the issues, while trying to represent their constituents from different areas of the state.
They say they rely on each other for political advice.
"He served as chair of the State Board of Education, so I ask for his opinions about school issues. I am a certified public accountant (CPA) so I help him out with tax issues," said Gordon, who sits directly behind his brother on the House floor.
The brothers recall the last time they worked together was hauling hay and milking cows on the family farm outside of Roosevelt.
"I haven't lived or worked in the same area as Gordon since high school," Marlon said, "so it's really nice to see him here."