From Deseret News archives:
GOP retains 3 state posts
Shurtleff, who held a 42-point lead over Democratic challenger Greg Skordas in the latest poll prior to the election, was running for a second four-year term.
Alter, who has served as state treasurer for 24 years, was well ahead of Democrat Debbie Hansen and two other challengers, according to the incomplete results.
Johnson, state auditor since his appointment in March 1995, appeared assured of defeating Democrat Carlos Vasquez of Ogden and two third-party candidates.
Shurtleff looked to be a landslide winner.
"I think this establishes, if these large numbers hold, that people are OK with me. They want an attorney general who will state what his position is on the law, give advice on the law and be an independent representative," Shurtleff said as the night wore on.
"I am obviously delighted . . . that Utahns, apparently in large numbers, have said they like what I'm doing and trust me for four more years. . ."
During the campaign, Shurtleff opposed Amendment 3, the ban against gay marriage. That may have upset some Republicans many of whom misunderstood his position, he said Tuesday but ultimately did not cost Shurtleff much support. Skordas, meanwhile, served as the criminal defense attorney for Republican Salt Lake County Mayor Nancy Workman during the campaign. Polygamy, rising crime rates and Amendment 3 were among the main topics debated during the campaign.
Neither Alter nor Johnson faced a Democratic challenger four years ago. In 1996, Alter garnered 57 percent of the vote to 39 percent for Democrat D'Arcy Dixon Pignanelli. Johnson, meanwhile, won his first election bid that year by 58 percent to 42 percent over Democrat Karen Truman.
With Alter as treasurer, the state has maintained a top bond rating and has been ranked as one of the best-managed states in the country.
Johnson began working in the auditor's office after graduating from Utah State University in 1976. He was appointed to the post when Tom Allen resigned. He was named 2002 Outstanding CPA in Business and Management by the Utah Association of CPAs.
E-mail: zman@desnews.com
Comments
- Atheist groups flourish on campuses 10:37 a.m.
- Griffin edges Ortiz in split decision 10:26 a.m.
- China mine disaster recounted 10:02 a.m.
- VMI faces sexism accusations 9:56 a.m.
- Mubarak warns Israel over Jerusalem 9:39 a.m.
- 65 leaders set for climate summit 9:36 a.m.
- Nevada grabs rushing records 9:34 a.m.
- RSL will play for MLS Cup tonight 3:06 a.m.
- Jazz outlast Pistons in overtime 3:06 a.m.
- Utah Utes whip SDSU 3:05 a.m.
- Glenn Beck to enter politics?
- BYU records with win
- Police link alcohol to murder
- Jazz outlast Pistons in overtime
- Utah Utes whip SDSU
- Cougars turn focus to dreaded rivals
- Former BYU professor remembered
- Can BYU throw vs. Air Force?
- Y. coach Hill up for Portland State job
- Christian leaders not backing down
- Buttars wants to limit gay rights laws
193 - Palin plans tour stop in Utah
173 - Glenn Beck to enter politics?
157 - Palin's book shows she's unqualified
122 - BYU records with win
110 - Officer cleared in Cardall Taser case
103 - BYU cuts Women's Research Inst.
100 - Jazz finally win in San Antonio
98 - Utes knock off rival Aggies
93 - Huntsman pleased with Obama
87
A little after midnight Wednesday morning, about 21 hours ago as I write...
There's a lot of reason to leave your plastic home as you shop:
Boise fans...I think you are conveniently looking past Nevada who is leading...
Can you hear it? The I am roll-in OUT of Provo party train because I am off...
I was in Paysandu, Uruguay, serving a mission. My companion and I both had...
congrats birds, hopefully the recruiting focus for 2010 is on the defensive...
I am sorry for your loss, Gordon. It's never easy to lose a friend, or a...
Those of us that have it LOVE it.
Hey Carlos--he was unbeliveable! And guess what? You were too! Go Jazz!
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion.
Concerning civil war. Attempting to overthrow the government is treason....
The season was over for them, they were eliminated.


You can be the first to comment on this story.