As the election grows closer, we’re talking to candidates for key downballot races in the coming weeks on the WUNC Politics Podcast as part of our Down The Ballot series. You can also read more about the candidates in the weekly WUNC Politics Newsletter.

First up in the series: the race for state treasurer. Two-term State Treasurer Dale Folwell’s decision to step down will mean a fresh face in an important financial role for state employees, and both Republican Brad Briner and Democratic candidate Wesley Harris are calling for big changes in how the state runs its pension fund for retired employees. Both candidates also see looming challenges for state employee healthcare and for local government finances overseen by the treasurer’s office.

Sign up for our free, weekly WUNC Politics Newsletter here.