Republicans file request for state auditor general’s removal

Republicans pushing Auditor General Frank Mautino to step aside over probes into his campaign spending as a former lawmaker have filed a resolution aimed at removing him from office.

The investigations cover the Spring Valley Democrat’s time as a legislator, including over $200,000 spent at an alderman-owned service station.

Mautino has acknowledged cooperation with the U.S. Attorney’s office. The State Board of Elections is also reviewing his campaign spending and set a July 25 deadline to provide more information.

Wednesday’s resolution is a request that’s unlikely to get traction in the Democrat-controlled Legislature. It claims Mautino is unable to work in an “impartial” manner because of the investigations.

Lawmakers appointed Mautino to a 10-year term in October after a bipartisan recommendation.

Mautino’s spokesman declined to comment.