Illinois Names New Auditor General

Chris Meister to succeed Frank Mautino in 10-year term overseeing state agencies

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The Illinois Legislative Audit Commission has recommended Chris Meister to serve as the state's new Auditor General, succeeding former State Rep. Frank Mautino. Meister, currently the executive director of the Illinois Finance Authority, was one of five finalists selected by the bipartisan commission after reviewing multiple candidates.

Why it matters

The Auditor General plays a critical role in providing independent oversight and accountability for Illinois state government agencies. The position is responsible for auditing the financial practices and operations of state entities to ensure transparency and proper use of taxpayer funds.

The details

Meister will serve a 10-year term as Auditor General after being unanimously approved by the Legislative Audit Commission. Prior to his current role at the Illinois Finance Authority, Meister served as the director of legislative affairs for the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

  • The Legislative Audit Commission voted unanimously to recommend Meister for the Auditor General position.

The players

Chris Meister

The recommended nominee to serve as Illinois' new Auditor General, currently serving as the executive director of the Illinois Finance Authority.

Frank Mautino

The former Illinois State Representative who previously served as the state's Auditor General but did not seek a second term.

Bob Rita

The Democratic state representative from Blue Island who co-chairs the Legislative Audit Commission.

Chapin Rose

The Republican state senator from Mahomet who co-chairs the Legislative Audit Commission.

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What they’re saying

“We went through a number of candidates, went through their resumes. You look at it as a whole, not just as one part. When you look at Chris, his vast experience in state government is a really important part of understanding state government and understanding what various agencies potentially could do, which is an important part that stuck out with Chris.”

— Bob Rita, State Representative (capitolcitynow.com)

What’s next

The Illinois General Assembly will now consider confirming Meister's appointment as the new Auditor General.

The takeaway

The selection of Chris Meister as the next Illinois Auditor General represents a bipartisan effort to appoint an experienced government oversight leader to ensure transparency and accountability in state agencies.