Lightning round: candidates’ quick takes on audits and accountability

The forum’s lightning round delivered short, pointed contrasts. When asked to name a single program to audit, Tim Ash answered "Vermont Health Access," while Ivar Kronick said "SNAP." On whether state agencies should be compelled to comply with auditor recommendations, Kronick said yes and Ash said no.

Other quick stances included differing views on regular audits of tax‑increment financing (TIF) districts — Ash said no and suggested changing the current requirement, while Kronick said yes with priority given to high spenders and high risk. Both candidates said the auditor should not recommend legislation; both supported public naming of agencies that ignore findings in principle, though Kronick emphasized publicizing rather than legally compelling a response.

The lightning round highlighted the practical differences in how the two candidates would prioritize audits and enforce recommendations if elected.