Apparently, Vince Illuzzi didn’t pull a last-minute switcheroo — he did actually file petitions as a Republican candidate for Auditor General today. He’ll face Doug Hoffer, who has the endorsements of both the Dems and the Progs.
And Illuzzi said something interesting about the job of auditor (per VTDigger):
“It really is about looking at programs to see if they are performing as envisioned by the general assembly and as expected by the public and not resulting in any unintended consequences,” Illuzzi said. “It can really shine a light on how state government is working.”
Well, yes and no. The auditor oversees the financial accountability of state government. Illuzzi seems to envision a role in overseeing policy outcomes as well. That would be a very broad and political vision of the office.
Not really surprising that a politician would see the office that way, but I don’t think it’s accurate or appropriate. During the campaign, he should be asked to amplify or clarify his perception of the office he seeks.
Tom Salmon, who never really could get the point of being auditor.
The Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB) recognized the importance of performance reviews 15 years ago. And that’s why I did that work for Ed Flanagan when I worked under contract for the State Auditor from 1995 to 2000.
That’s one of the key differences between us: I’ve actually done performance reviews (both for the Auditor and for other clients). I’m not aware of Sen. Illuzzi having done this work (or having made an issue of this during his tenure in the Senate).
I look forward to discussing my qualifications and experience with the voters.