Klobuchar names independent auditor for state government review
The Minnesota governor-elect plans a top-to-bottom audit of state agencies and aims to cut family costs while expanding housing and business opportunities.
By Amit Chukwu ·
Amy Klobuchar is set to become Minnesota's first female governor.
She defeated Republican Lisa Demuth in the November election. With incumbent Tim Walz choosing not to seek another term, Klobuchar outlined a clear path for her incoming administration.
Klobuchar stated that her primary focus will be lowering costs for families and growing the state economy. She described her approach as moving government forward. To achieve this, she pledged to conduct a comprehensive audit of every state agency. Klobuchar said she will appoint an independent senior leader to conduct this review. This person will work alongside the new inspector general and the legislative auditor.
During her winning speech, Klobuchar committed to rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse. She explained the process with a straightforward rule. If a program works, her office will keep it. If a program is broken, she will fix it or eliminate it. She noted that bipartisan support is necessary to reach these goals. Klobuchar told supporters, "Spoiler alert, you may not like every single thing I do."
The governor-elect listed specific policy targets for her first term. She aims to reduce health insurance premiums and prescription drug costs. She also plans to partner with the private sector to construct 100,000 new homes. These projects will include apartments and single-family dwellings. On the economic front, Klobuchar pledged to make it easier to start businesses. She also wants to expand exports and double the number of apprenticeships in the state.
Klobuchar addressed education and public safety issues as well. She wants to raise student achievement levels and reduce screen time in classrooms. On gun policy, she referenced Harper Moyski, a child who would have turned 12 on November 3. Klobuchar reaffirmed her support for gun safety legislation. She stated, "We will get that gun safety vote, and I will sign that bill into law."
Klobuchar is expected to resign her U.S. Senate seat before taking office in January. Either Walz or Klobuchar will appoint a temporary replacement for the Senate. This individual will serve until a special election determines who finishes the term. The governor-elect plans to announce her cabinet in the coming weeks.
