The candidates for state treasurer are focusing their campaigns on financial accountability in this year’s post-Coingate election.

After a period of “rampant financial scandals” in Ohio, Democratic candidate Richard Cordray said he thinks the money in Columbus needs to be better protected. Likewise, Republican contender Sandra O’Brien said she wants to restore trust to the position of treasurer.

O’Brien said, if elected, she will post updated state financial information on the treasurer’s Web site in an effort to improve the transparency of the office.

“I do believe that sunshine is the best disinfectant,” she said, explaining that illuminating financial records could prevent more scandals. “I’m very conscious of the fact that this is hard-earned tax dollars.”

She said she also plans to “bring the office into the 21st century” by enabling Ohioans to pay state taxes and fees online.

O’Brien has worked as auditor in Ashtabula County for 12 years, while Cordray has worked for Franklin County as a treasurer for four years. But Cordray argued that his opponent has never been a county treasurer, which he considers the most relevant experience.

“I don’t think people want a treasurer who will require on-the-job training at tax-payer expense,” he said.

If the state funds are better protected, Cordray said, there will be more money left over to spend on other priorities like unaffordable tuition. In addition to protecting and investing state money, Cordray also wants to make personal finance classes available in schools.