State comptroller: Topinka

Those who have followed state politics the last 20 years know Republican Judy Baar Topinka is good for a colorful and feisty quote.

The former legislator and three-term state treasurer also won't be timid about finding ways to make the comptroller's office, which oversees the check writing for the state, more efficient and influential.

She sees opportunity in the state's budget mess, and we believe she can and will make needed changes that others have not made in the past. Among her goals are to upgrade the outdated computer system, combine the office with that of the treasurer, offer businesses more predictability on payments, and help eliminate Medicaid and other benefits for those who can afford to pay for them on their own.

We endorse Topinka over her opponents, including Democratic state Rep. David Miller, who has strong ideas on transparency but may lack an independent voice.

Also in the race are Libertarian Julie Fox, Tim Becker of the Constitution Party and Erika Schafer of the Green Party.