Vermont's Auditor of Accounts tracks how the state spends taxpayer money, and makes sure that government programs are performing the way they should. Current Auditor Tom Salmon is not seeking re-election this year, creating an open race for the position.
Candidates Vince Illuzzi (R) and Doug Hoffer (D/P) debate what they'd bring to the office of state auditor and explain why they'd be best to fill this role.
http://www.vpr.net/audio/programs/84/2012/10/2012-10-17-vermontedition.mp3
Video Direct Links - State Auditor's debate
Listen to the entire debate, or click the topics below to jump to that section.
Jane Lindholm's questions to the candidates:
- Priorities and vision for the job, role of performance: Vince Illuzzi | Doug Hoffer
- Curbing municipal embezzlement: Doug Hoffer | Vince Illuzzi
- Role in crafting the state budget and suggesting budget cuts: Vince Illuzzi | Doug Hoffer
The candidates' questions toeach other:
- Hoffer to Illuzzi: Why won't you give up your position as state's attorney ifyou're elected Auditor?
- Illuzzi to Hoffer: Wasn't itunfair to criticize Auditor Tom Salmon's spending on performance audits?
- Illuzzi to Hoffer: contractbidding process, sole source contracts
- Hoffer to Illuzzi: bill tore-instate a capital gains exclusion
Listeners' questions to thecandidates:
- Efficiency and availability of state services in rural areas
- Disclose candidates' personal investments and business interests
- Role of auditor in rectifying the overtime/payroll fraud by former State Police Sgt. Deeghan
- The Comprehensive Annual Financial Report as assets to be leveraged and used
- Influence of SuperPAC money in this race
Closing questions:
- Doug Hoffer: Address the criticism that you're too much of a policy wonk, and lack management experience.
- Vince Illuzzi: Address the criticism that your experience puts you too close to those you'll be auditing.
