Greg Skordas answers Deseret Morning News questionnaire

Greg Skordas, Democrat

1. What is the major issue facing Utah today and how would you deal with it?

Increasing crime is one of the biggest problems facing Utahns today, and the rates have escalated over the past four years. Homicides against women are 21 percent above the national average. Identity theft in Utah grew by 42 percent last year. The number of meth labs has remained steady and has not decreased as my opponent claims. In fact, the U.S. Department of Justice reported last year that "Methamphetamine is readily available in wholesale quantities throughout Utah." Even Rep. Chris Cannon admitted last year that "Utah ranks No. 1 nationwide for 'speed cookeries.' "

I have prepared a three-point crime plan to help reduce crime that affects all Utahns. My crime plan focuses on violent crimes against women, making our schools safer, and identity theft. You can read my crime plan at www.SkordasforAG.com.

2. How will you handle having to defend legislation you personally disagree with?

As attorney general it is my duty and obligation to uphold the laws of the state regardless of my personal beliefs. It is also the attorney general's job to provide legal advice to the state Legislature, which I will do proactively when it is warranted and also when it is requested.

3. Does the Utah attorney general need to use outside counsel? Under what circumstances? How would you control costs?

As attorney general, I will do everything I can to conserve Utah tax dollars. The Attorney General's Office should make every effort to use the talent of the employees in the office. When necessary to utilize counsel outside the office, I would look first to capable Utah lawyers in order to keep the costs at a minimum and to keep the dollars in Utah's economy.

4. In the past, some AG incumbents/candidates have been criticized for accepting campaign donations from law firms that currently have, or recently had, outside contracts with the Attorney General's Office. Have you accepted donations from firms or law firm principals with outside contracts? If so, why?

I have wide support from Utah's legal community in both endorsements and contributions. Some of those individuals probably have performed work for the Attorney General's Office. Every elected official must do what is in the best interest of the public and every attorney must represent his or her client without regard for political contributions or consequences. I understand those ethical obligations and have practiced them my entire career.

5. What is the one personal trait/characteristic that you want voters to know about you, and why is that important in this race?