Jefferson City, Mo. – Missouri voters will see a familiar name on the ballot this November as incumbent Republican Scott Fitzpatrick announces his campaign for a second term as state auditor. Fitzpatrick, who took office in 2023 after serving as state treasurer and a state legislator, is running against Democrat Quentin Wilson and Libertarian Dustin Coffell.
Audit Record and Fiscal Oversight
Since assuming the auditor’s office, Fitzpatrick has completed more than 300 audits of state agencies, school districts and city governments. He says those audits have helped uncover waste, improve efficiency and protect taxpayer dollars. “We’ve sounded the alarm multiple times on the deficit where the COVID money is kind of going away, and the state is gonna have to begin picking up the cost of things that it hadn’t had to pick up in quite some time,” Fitzpatrick explained, emphasizing the need for responsible budgeting as the state moves past pandemic relief funds.
Nonpartisan Approach to Auditing
Missouri’s long‑standing Republican supermajority raises questions about partisan oversight, but Fitzpatrick insists the auditor’s role is fundamentally nonpolitical. “The job itself shouldn’t be that political, because what it’s about is identifying waste in government, getting rid of it, holding people accountable, which we do regardless of what party they belong to,” he said.
Campaign Focus
Fitzpatrick’s campaign will stress transparency, fiscal responsibility and the importance of an independent auditor’s office. He plans to continue expanding audit coverage to ensure that state funds are used efficiently and that local governments receive guidance on best practices.
Opponents and Election Timeline
Democrat Quentin Wilson, a newcomer to statewide politics, and Libertarian Dustin Coffell, also new to the race, will challenge Fitzpatrick. Election day is set for November 3, and the state is currently conducting no‑excuse in‑person absentee voting, giving voters multiple ways to cast their ballots.
Looking Ahead
As the campaign unfolds, Fitzpatrick aims to build on his audit achievements and reassure Missourians that the auditor’s office will remain a watchdog for fiscal integrity. Voters interested in learning more about the candidates or the upcoming election can visit the Missouri Secretary of State’s website for voting locations and deadlines.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
