Idaho state treasurer is running for reelection. Here’s what she says are her priorities

Idahoans will decide whether to reelect their vote for state treasurer in the Nov. 8 general election.

Republican Idaho Treasurer Julie Ellsworth is running for another four-year term against Democrat Deborah Silver. The state treasurer’s role is to manage billions of dollars in public funds, working closely with the state controller.

The treasurer is Idaho’s “accounts receivable” and secures money that comes to the state through taxes and fees, Ellsworth told the Idaho Statesman.

As treasurer, Ellsworth is responsible for receiving and dispersing about $12 billion in public funds and making sure they’re funneled to the right place, usually state and local government agencies. The treasurer’s office also invests public money, helping it grow before it’s spent. And it’s responsible for returning unclaimed property — such as a forgotten deposit or unknown life insurance policy — to its owner.

“But the primary function is to have good management of the funds, leveraging them when they’re not in use on the short term,” Ellsworth said. “The art of the treasurer’s office is matching the flow of money to the need, as different agencies are going to draw upon their appropriation. All of that takes experts, professionals.”

The Idaho Statesman sent surveys to both candidates in the contested race. Silver did not respond. Ellsworth’s responses are copied below.

Learn more about other local elections at IdahoStatesman.com/voter-guide.