During the election, this PAC attacked Utah's only openly LGBTQ+ lawmaker and more than a dozen other Democratic legislative candidates with mailers and texts claiming they "voted against Utah's girls" and "let men use girls' restrooms and locker rooms." Remarkably, in a pre-general election report, the PAC stated that it had raised $0 and spent $0. However, it was later revealed that the PAC's ads were largely funded by House Speaker Mike Schultz. His $120,000 donation is the only contribution the entity has disclosed so far. When asked about his role with the PAC, Schultz through a spokesperson offered a statement emphasizing the need to defend Utah values.
The only officers listed for the Preserving Utah Values PAC, which is said to be based in Wisconsin, are Thomas Datwyler and Timothy Datwyler. These individuals are renowned treasurers for Republican candidates and campaign committees that support GOP causes. Thomas Datwyler, in particular, has a history. He serves as the treasurer for recently reelected Tennessee Rep. Andy Ogles' campaign, which is currently under FBI investigation for fraud. He is also the treasurer for a shadowy PAC that raised legal questions in an Arizona congressional race this year. In July, the Conservative Nevada Leadership PAC accused him of wire fraud.
While the attorney general's office is investigating the Preserving Utah Values PAC, legislative auditors are preparing a report on the attorney general's office's "oversight and effectiveness." This audit stems from questions about Reyes' decision-making, travel policies, and efficiency in the wake of accusations against his longtime associate Tim Ballard. The results of this audit are expected to be released in January. Interestingly, during Utahns' various elections on different levels, including for House Speaker Schultz's replacement, Reyes did not make any political contributions this year.