ATRA Applauds Utah AG Candidate Rudy Bautista for Signing Transparency Pledge

Republican Candidate Derek Brown Urged to Sign Pledge

The American Tort Reform Association today announced that Utah attorney general candidate Rudy Bautista (D) signed ATRA’s 2024 Attorney General Transparency Code pledge, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and accountability if elected.

“By signing this pledge, Rudy Bautista has shown Utah voters that he is serious about promoting open and accountable government,” Tiger Joyce, ATRA president said. “We commend Mr. Bautista for embracing these good-government principles.”

ATRA invited all Utah attorney general candidates to complete the 2024 AG candidate questionnaire. To date, Bautista’s opponent, Republican candidate Derek Brown, has not responded to ATRA’s request. The Association encourages all candidates to complete the questionnaire.

ATRA maintains that attorneys general need the discretion and independence to enforce state law, free from the influence of parties that may have a private interest in the outcome of any litigation their office may take on.

“In every instance, a state’s attorney general should seek to provide the highest quality services at the best value for hardworking taxpayers when considering whether to contract with outside counsel,” Joyce said. “Signing ATRA’s transparency code gives hope that transparency and accountability will be a priority in the Office of the Attorney General in Utah should Bautista be elected.”

ATRA’s Attorney General Transparency Code outlines model policies to govern the use of outside counsel by state attorneys general. ATRA is committed to working with state and local leaders to improve our civil justice system by reducing excessive litigation and increasing government transparency to enhance economic development and job creation. Attorneys general play a critical role in creating a fairer system for all as states’ chief law enforcement officers.

“We hope to work with Utah’s next attorney general to strengthen transparency and accountability in the state,” Joyce said.

Bautista’s completed questionnaire is available here.