Jan Graham, only woman to hold Utah AG office, dies

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Jan Graham, the only woman to hold the office of Utah attorney general, has died, according to a statement Thursday from the current attorney general’s office.

Graham was the 18th attorney general in state history, serving from 1993 to 2001. She was also the most recent Democrat to serve in a statewide office.

Jodi Hildebrandt allowed to sell house, but judge says money must be held for restitution

“Jan Graham shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations of women in public office,” said the Utah Senate Democrats, in a statement.

State Sen. Luz Escamilla (D-Salt Lake City) said that Graham’s legacy inspires her work, which is focused on the well-being of women and children.

“Jan Graham’s impact on our state and her commitment to advocating for our children will never be forgotten,” she said. “Our thoughts are with her loved ones during this difficult time.”

Graham was born in Salt Lake City and attended both Brigham Young University and the University of Utah. She initially studied psychology before pursuing law.

Sean Reyes, the current attorney general and a Republican, described Graham as a “historic legal and political figure” in Utah, adding that her passing is a “titanic loss” for the local legal community.

“Among her accomplishments, she guided Utah’s role as part of groundbreaking national litigation and settlement with large tobacco companies to protect the health and safety of all Utahns,” he said. “She also laid the foundation for much of the success Utah has achieved with programs like the Children’s Justice Centers.”

Gov. Spencer Cox called Graham a “trailblazer” in a statement on Twitter/X, adding that he is “grateful for her public service.”

Graham was a founding member of the Women Lawyers of Utah.

In a presentation marking the group’s 20th anniversary in 2001, she remarked that the most recurring and fundamental issue the group addressed was the balancing act of being a professional lawyer and a parent in the 1980s.

“As we all evolved, women felt empowered to honestly disclose their own priorities without fear of being labeled second class lawyers,” she said. “Being ‘married to the practice of law’ used to be an honor; now it’s a sign of one’s need to visit a therapist.”

Utah House Democratic Leader Angela Romero (D-Salt Lake City) said that Graham was a steadfast advocate for Utahns, prioritizing their voices over political interests.

“As we mourn her passing, we honor Jan Graham’s enduring legacy of advocacy and service, which continues to inspire us all,” Romero said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.