January 26, 2021
SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Attorney General Sean D. Reyes issued this statement in response to the House bill which explores the possibility of Impeachment:
“Impeachment is a drastic measure, especially if, as Representative Stoddard says, he is simply looking for answers to his questions. If I had questions regarding his bill, I wouldn’t send a subpoena, I’d make an appointment with him.
During this session, my team has helped Rep. Stoddard with his criminal justice bills but I don’t believe he has ever asked to meet with me to discuss his concerns. My door is always open.”
To the question of whether the state AG condones violence or why the State of Utah should care about constitutional elections issues, I respond as follows:
“As I stated at the time, Utah joined the Texas lawsuit to have the Supreme Court answer an important constitutional question regarding separation of powers. Namely, when are executive and judicial branches allowed to change or disregard state law without the legislative branch or referendum process.
I know many state legislators along with a majority of Utahns wanted these questions answered and still do. I understand the United States Supreme Court is hesitant to address even important constitutional issues like this amid political controversy. Nevertheless, it is a question that remains and needs to be answered before the next election cycle.
It has been well documented by the media and national organizations that I was not involved in planning or encouraging any violence at our nation’s Capital. I immediately and emphatically denounced the lawlessness and loss of life on January 6 the same way I condemned the equally tragic riots, looting, burning, violence and loss of life all summer long in our nation.
The Attorney General has to defend state election laws and advise the executive branch but can’t do so if the force of those laws is in question.”
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