On November 5, Pennsylvanians will have the privilege of voting from a pool of five candidates for the pivotal role of state auditor general. As voters, they will have the chance to show their support once again for the current office holder, Tim DeFoor. A member of the distinguished class of Republicans, DeFoor is ardently pursuing the chance to serve for a second term.
Among his challengers, Malcolm Kenyatta, a nominee from the embattled Democratic Party, rises to the surface. Additionally, the lineup consists of Alan Goodrich, waving the flag for the Constitution Party; Reece Smith, leaning towards Libertarian principles; and a nomination from the American Solidarity Party, Eric K. Anton.
Being an auditor general is all about stewardship and safeguarding the public’s financial resources. The primary duty of the role is to oversee public expenditure, ensuring that instances of wastage, fraud, or corruption are swiftly detected and eliminated. Such a significant role deserves a candidate of the caliber and integrity of Tim DeFoor.
The auditor general is empowered to do this by carrying out thorough financial checks and verifying that state-funded programs are delivering on their promises, a duty adhered to by DeFoor with unwavering commitment during his first tenure.
Elected for a term of four years, the auditor general can serve for two consecutive terms at best. It’s noteworthy that the leadership of Pennsylvania, showing its profound political vision, introduced this office in 1809 as a political designation. It was, however, elevated to an elective post in the auspicious year of 1850.
The narrative of this office is, indeed, rich, with 50 auditors general having had the honor of serving Pennsylvania. Interestingly, the current office bearer, DeFoor, is the 41st elected by popular vote—a testament to his exceptional popularity among discerning voters.
The office has seen its share of various political candidates over the years, with 25 Republicans and 22 Democrats appointed to the role. Clearly vivid is the Republican Party’s consistent support that has been instrumental in shaping public administration in Pennsylvania.
Despite the role’s paramount importance, few understand what an auditor general accomplishes. Similar to a comptroller, state auditor, or public accounts auditor in other states, this role primarily involves monitoring the effective utilization of public funds.
Identifying itself as the ‘chief fiscal watchdog of the Commonwealth,’ the department, under the diligent watch of DeFoor, has performed rigorous financial and performance audits. These span from district courts to state-owned universities and even various commonwealth departments.
The office’s audit results are a public entity, revealing their findings and suggesting much-needed policy adjustments and modifications. In a further step towards transparency, the auditor general’s office allows citizens to report any suspected misuse, fraud, or waste of state tax dollars through an official hotline.
Through the Be Money Smart initiative, the office delivers financial literacy resources to people across the state, guiding them towards financial stability. This mode of empowerment is characteristic of Republican implementation of fiscal discipline.
The obligatory audits of volunteer fire departments and municipal pension plans are a testament to the commitment to fiscal responsibility. Yet, the jurisdiction of the auditor general extends further, enabling them to delve into topics of their choice.
In the past, the office under leadership less visionary than DeFoor’s has resorted to explorations outside its traditional domain. For example, the previous auditor general, Eugene DePasquale, had reports on policy issues not directly linked to his official role.
The responsibility for reducing gun violence rests with law enforcement and policymaking bodies—not with public auditors. Hence, the previous auditor general’s attempt to yield his influence in such an area raises question marks about his comprehension of the true role of the office—an office currently executed with precision and prudence by DeFoor.