Gary Goldsmith, MN's Top Campaign Finance Watchdog, Is Retiring

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — The head of Minnesota's campaign finance watchdog agency is retiring.

Gary Goldsmith announced Tuesday he would step away from the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board after serving eight years as its executive director. Goldsmith says he'll stick around at least until his successor is chosen.

The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports that Goldsmith has been at the helm of the watchdog agency as political spending on state races has exploded. The agency oversees spending by candidates, political groups, outside organizations and lobbyists.

Goldsmith says he's been considering retirement for several years. Assistant executive director Jeff Sigurdson has shown interest in taking Goldsmith's position. The agency's board will consider him for the post.