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.
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 to
each other:
- Hoffer to Illuzzi: Why won’t you give up your position as state’s attorney if
you’re elected Auditor? -
Illuzzi to Hoffer: Wasn’t it
unfair to criticize Auditor Tom Salmon’s spending on performance audits? - Illuzzi to Hoffer: contract
bidding process, sole source contracts - Hoffer to Illuzzi: bill to
re-instate a capital gains exclusion
Listeners’ questions to the
candidates:
- 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.