State Auditor elect Kathy McGuiness is getting a jump on her transition into office.
Deputy Auditor James Spadola says he is stepping down effective Wednesday and retiring State Auditor Tom Wagner is naming McGuiness to replace him for the remainder of Wagner’s time in office.
Wagner named Spadola, a fellow Republican, his deputy auditor back in October as Spadola was running against McGuiness for the position. McGuiness, a Democrat, defeated Spadola by a 58 to 42 percent margin in November’s general election.
Spadola says he asked Wagner and McGuiness if this move would be in the best interest to the state and they both agreed.
“I appreciate James making this recommendation, and thank him for his contributions as Deputy. In a short time and in a part-time capacity, James helped get our social media accounts up and running, and continued outreach efforts to state employees," said Wagner in a statement. By appointing Kathy, she is able to start implementing her vision now and hit the ground running before her swearing-in come January.”
Wagner's statement also noted Spadola is donating all of net earnings from serving as deputy auditor to Faithful Friends Animal Society.
Wagner decided against running for re-election after 28 years in office because of health reasons and said in October he appointed Spadola deputy because of those issues, including the need for a kidney transplant.
McGuiness take office next month. She will be the state’s first female State Auditor.
