Massachusetts Auditor Battles Legislature Over Voter-Approved Audit

Attorney General and House Speaker Resist Auditor's Efforts to Examine Legislative Finances

Feb. 9, 2026 at 3:55am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The debate over Massachusetts State Auditor Diana DiZoglio's right to audit the state legislature has intensified, with DiZoglio and Attorney General Andrea Campbell at odds over the issue. Voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure in 2024 allowing the state auditor to audit the legislature, but the House has resisted DiZoglio's attempts to conduct the audit, citing separation of powers concerns. DiZoglio has accused the legislature and attorney general of conspiring to cover up public corruption, while the legislature argues the auditor's proposed audit is unconstitutional.

Why it matters

This standoff between the auditor and the legislature highlights ongoing tensions over government transparency and accountability in Massachusetts. The voter-approved measure granting the auditor oversight of the legislature was intended to provide greater public oversight of how taxpayer funds are used, but the legislature's resistance raises questions about its commitment to such oversight.

The details

State Auditor Diana DiZoglio has repeatedly requested that Attorney General Andrea Campbell represent her in suing the House of Representatives for not complying with her attempted audit of the legislature. Campbell has refused, citing a need for more information from DiZoglio about the legal issues involved. DiZoglio has accused Campbell and legislative leaders of conspiring to cover up public corruption, pointing to a 12% budget increase for the attorney general's office that she alleges was a reward from the legislature for blocking the audit. The legislature argues the auditor's proposed audit is unconstitutional and that the House is already audited annually by an independent firm.

  • In November 2024, voters approved Ballot Question 1 allowing the state auditor to audit the legislature.
  • It has been 15 months since the voters approved the audit, but a current audit has yet to take place.

The players

Diana DiZoglio

The Massachusetts State Auditor who is seeking to audit the state legislature as approved by voters in 2024.

Andrea Campbell

The Massachusetts Attorney General who has resisted DiZoglio's efforts to sue the legislature over the audit.

Ron Mariano

The Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, who has opposed DiZoglio's audit efforts.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.