Gov. Gary Herbert has tapped Sean Reyes as the replacement for former Attorney General John Swallow.
Reyes lost to Swallow in the Republican primary last year.
Reyes was the first candidate to get a majority of votes at the Republican State Central Committee meeting earlier this month.
Herbert chose Reyes over acting Attorney General Brian Tarbet and Robert Smith.
“Sean Reyes is the best candidate to restore confidence in state government.”
For his part, Reyes says it’s time to move past the wreckage left behind by the numerous scandals and investigations into the former Attorney General.
“I want to make this an office built on legal excellence and integrity,” said Reyes.
Reyes also announced he would keep acting AG Tarbet on.Â
“I anticipate a quick transition into an office that all Utahns can be proud of.”
Swallow’s resignation means there will be an election next November to select who will serve out the rest of the term. Reyes says he plans on running in that election, but that won’t be his primary focus.
