What is the difference between a watchdog and a commissioner?

The latter is usually paid to oversee as well as manage, whereas a watchdog is there to “bark” at mismanagement or impropriety.

A watchdog monitors and reports. A commissioner sits on a board that evaluates these reports and makes decisions. A watchdog commission can do all of this.

A watchdog is usually used as an informal description, where a commissioner is usually an elected or appointed official.

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