Thursday, May 30, 2013

Keller Running for Auditor, Not Governor

State Sen. Tim Keller will run for state auditor next year, not for governor as he'd been contemplating.

"For me, I think it's the best fit to continue doing what I've started in the Legislature," Keller, D-Albuquerque, said, referring to attempts to reform government financial entities like the State Investment Council and the New Mexico Finance Authority.

Keller said he'd make the Auditor's office a "policy shop," recommending more efficient ways of operating for state government.

He said the timing wasn't right for a governor's race. He and his wife are expecting their first baby in July.

Former state auditor and current Santa county assessor Domingo Martinez, also a Democrat, already has announced he's running for the auditor's job, which currently is held by Hector Balderas, who can't seek a third term. Balderas is running for attorney general.