Seattle Attorney Joins Race For Washington State Auditor

Another candidate has joined next year’s race for Washington state auditor: a Seattle attorney who’s never run for public office.

TRANSCRIPT

The auditor’s job is to shine a light on how public dollars are spent -- or misspent.

Democrat Jeff Sprung said he’s had a similar career focus fighting for taxpayers. And he wants to bring that experience and a fresh perspective to state government.

Sprung: “I’m an outsider to Olympia and I have no stake in fighting old battles. For the job of the people’s watchdog, I think that’s exactly what’s needed.”

Former state auditor Brian Sonntag joined Sprung for the announcement. He held the office 20 years.

Sprung has worked as a government prosecutor and represented whistleblower cases in private practice. He said his cases have recovered more than $750 million in taxpayer money.

It’s an interesting time to run for state auditor -- a time punctuated by scandal. Current auditor Troy Kelly was indicted earlier this year and faces 17 federal charges.

Republican state Sen. Mark Miloscia has also announced his candidacy for this seat.