"Richard Ellis The Utah Constitution defines the state treasurer's duty as the "custodian of public moneys." The state treasurer is responsible for investing $12.0 billion of taxpayer monies. These investments include both state and local government money in the Public Treasurer's Investment Fund. The income from these investments helps offset the cost of government and keeps taxes down. The state treasurer is also responsible for issuing bonds authorized by the Legislature for highway and building construction. The treasurer coordinates the issuance of the bonds and is the contact with the rating agencies for maintaining the state's AAA bond rating. The rating saves taxpayers millions of dollars in interest expense each year. The office also administers the Unclaimed Property program for the state reuniting owners with lost intangible property such as savings accounts and lost stocks. My qualifications include 26 years of public finance experience, and degrees in Finance and an MBA. I have the experience and qualifications necessary to continue the tradition of excellence for which the Utah State Treasurer's office is known. Utah needs a treasurer that is proven, professional and principled."