The position of state auditor wouldn't seem to have much to do with politics. But this year, perhaps it does.

Republican Duane Grimes and Democrat Monica Lindeen are seeking the job, which has more to do with regulating insurance and securities than auditing. And while Lindeen is running as a consumer advocate, Grimes wants to help the free market work better so insurance customers have more choices.

Both candidates are former legislators who have sold their businesses in recent years. Lindeen holds a degree in education from Montana State University-Billings, and Grimes holds an aircraft mechanic degree from Colorado Aero Tech, a bachelor's degree in theology from Bob Jones University, and a master's degree in public administration from the University of Montana.

They seek to replace termed-out current State Auditor John Morrison, who has instituted significant reforms during his tenure.

Grimes said he wants to increase information and transparency about insurance companies so that customers can make their own choices. "I trust consumers, not bureaucrats, to make decisions in health care," he said. He's against regulations and coverage mandates that give Montana "a hostile insurance environment."

L:indeen accuses Grimes of numerous "anti-consumer" votes in the Legislature, and says the key question in the race is "Who will be the strongest advocate for the consumers in Montana?"

Both candidates favor expanding the Insure Montana program, which provides subsidies and credits to small business that offer health insurance to their employees. The program currently has a waiting list of some 700 businesses.

The state auditor is one of five state officials who sit on the State Land Board, and Grimes said his would be a "rock solid" vote for developing those lands to increase funds for schools. Lindeen said she also is for responsible development, but cautions that market forces have a larger role in determining how land is developed.

Each candidate brings strengths to the campaign, but we think Lindeen, rather than an adamant free-market champion like Grimes, would be a better fit for the job that's essentially all about government regulation.