Embattled Washington State Auditor Troy Kelley is not seeking re-election. Five candidates are running in the August 2 primary to replace him and restoring trust in the office is a recurring theme of the campaigns.
The state auditor’s office is responsible for auditing state and local government programs and conducting performance audits. It also investigates whistleblower complaints and reports of fraud.
Democrat Jeff Sprung has out-fundraised his opponents by more than three to one. Sprung is a Seattle lawyer who specializes in whistleblower fraud cases.
“I team up with government lawyers to get our money back and my cases have helped return over three-quarters of a billion dollars.”
Republican state Senator Mark Miloscia says he’s uniquely qualified for the job because of his background in auditing and performance management. He wants to audit homeless programs, mental health and transportation.
“I will use performance audits to ensure all our governments become good stewards of your tax dollars, achieving real results and earn your trust.”
Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy, a Democrat, highlights her experience running a large county government and her prior role as a county auditor.
“I’m running to restore public confidence in our state government, first and foremost the state auditor’s office. That won’t be an easy job, but I’m used to taking on tough jobs and getting them done.”
Also running are:
- Mark Wilson - an Independent who is professional auditor and fraud examiner
- David Golden - a former state bridge inspector who states no party preference.
The top two voter-getters in the primary will advance to the November election.
For more from the candidates, see TVW’s Video Voters’ Guide.
