An editorial from The Exponent Telegram
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. — When your choices for an elected position are someone with 20 years of experience and those with none, you have to look at the job the incumbent has done and then consider the alternatives.
When voters consider the three candidates for state treasurer, they will see that incumbent Democrat John Perdue has 20 years of experience while Republican Ann Urling and Libeterian Michael Young, while sporting impressive backgrounds, have none.
So we ask: How has John Perdue done while serving the taxpayers of West Virginia?
“The State Treasurer is the chief financial officer for the state and is responsible for overseeing the state’s operating funds, monitoring the state’s debt and performing additional banking and accounting duties as prescribed by state law. The Treasurer also serves as a member of the major financial decision-making boards throughout state government.
“Over the years, the office has widened its scope of duties beyond basic treasury functions. The State Treasurer now advocates for citizens’ rights through several programs mandated by state code and other valuable initiatives.”
Perdue has served well in these capacities and has advocated for greater financial education for students and senior citizens.
He has helped start a highly successful college savings program, the Smart529 Program, which allows residents to save for their child’s education and receive a state tax credit, which helps both the taxpayer and the student.
Perdue also has demonstrated a reasoned approach to government and, as the state’s top financial officer, has provided a solid example of fiscal responsibility through his various programs.
“I modernized this office and brought it into the 21st century,” he said. “I brought transparency into this office that is second to none and allows people to see where their money is and what’s being spent in state government. Citizens can find that information on our website any time,” Perdue told Staff Writer Austin Weiford.
We agree and believe Perdue has earned residents’ respect and support.
The Exponent Telegram Editorial Board endorses John Perdue for another term as state treasurer. We believe his commitment to improving transparency, to financial education and to serving all residents, from our students to our senior citizens, warrant four more years in office.