The News & Observer (Raleigh, N.C.) Lynn Bonner column

Oct. 20--Wayne Goodwin is running for reelection to a third term as insurance commissioner.

One of 10 administrative officials elected statewide, the Insurance Commissioner runs the office that regulates the insurance industry.

"I remain committed to protecting the people of North Carolina through fair and reasonable insurance regulation, while also promoting a vibrant and competitive business community," Goodwin, a Democrat, said in a statement.

Goodwin may be best known for fighting attempts by some insurance companies to change the rate-setting process for car insurance. Over the years, companies have argued for changes they said they needed to be able to offer more good-driver discounts. Goodwin claimed that the moves were attempts to raise rates beyond what would typically be allowed.

North Carolina has among the lowest car insurance costs in the country.

This year the legislature passed a law that Goodwin wanted that allows companies to add optional features to car insurance policies with the insurance commissioner's approval of the additions and the premiums.

Goodwin said in an email that the law gives consumers more options and "gives companies more flexibility to be creative and offer individual coverages that meet the interests and needs of customers," while preserving the system that keeps car insurance premiums low.