Republicans, Democrats best candidates

Published 8:52 am Monday, May 31, 2010

For Governor (Democrat): Artur G. Davis. Davis has built strong relationships in the U.S House of Representatives and in the White House, relationships which would be beneficial as he works for the interests of Alabama. Several local stops along his campaign tour reflect what we see as a commitment to work for the interests of our community as well.  His educational background show that he is more than competent to take on the job of governor.

For Governor (Republican): Tim James. In a crowded field, James gets our nod in a close decision between he and Bradley Byrne. Both candidates would represent the Republican nomination well, but James stands out for his local ties to Greenville and familiarity with the issues facing his hometown. The potential of a governor who calls Greenville home is an exciting prospect for the Camellia City.

For Lt. Governor (Republican): No endorsement. None of the candidates – Kay Ivey, Gene Ponder, or Hank Erwin – have clearly separated themselves from the others in the race for Lt. Governor. Although these candidates may very well be qualified, we feel it would be imprudent to select one for our endorsement at this time.

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For U.S. Senate (Democrat): William G. Barnes. Barnes is the most qualified Democratic candidate and has served in both the private and public sector as an attorney. Barnes’s pledges to fight for job creation and to improve our state’s schools, two worthy pursuits in a state with high unemployment and consistently under-achieving schools.

For U.S. Senate (Republican): Richard C. Shelby. Shelby has done a good job in representing Alabama in Congress, becoming a well-respected legislator on the national stage. He is routinely selected to serve on some of the highest profile committees in the Senate and has shown a commitment to serving the best interests of Alabama citizens.

For U.S. House of Representatives, 2nd Congressional District (Republican): Martha Roby. Roby has proven herself as a Montgomery city councilperson, the same playing field that produced Democratic incumbent Bobby Bright. Roby’s success in lesser posts could be a sign of what she could accomplish in the House.

For Attorney General (Democrat): James H. Anderson. Anderson has the legal experience for the job and the case records to back it up. His commitment to transparency would benefit both the office and the public. Transparency in government is essential for citizens to keep watch on their politicians—such a form of checks and balances is what our democracy was built on.

For Attorney General (Republican): Luther Strange. Strange is the best choice to help restore confidence in an office that has become mired in politics rather than the state’s best interests. Strange has an opportunity rebuild relations with the governor’s office and the district attorneys of Alabama.

For State Treasurer (Democrat): Jeremy Sherer. Sherer is strong proponent of community banks, which bodes well for our local financial institutions. Community banks are the primary lenders to the small businesses that form the backbone of our economy.

For State Treasurer (Republican): Young Boozer. Boozer brings a strong set of qualifications, including having served as Gov. Bob Riley’s Deputy Finance Director and a Bachelors degree in Economics with a Masters degree in finance. This combination of formal education with real-world experience gets Boozer our endorsement.

For Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries (Republican): John McMillan. McMillan has a broad range of experience serving the public through various committees and organizations. He has strong ties to south Alabama and has a good relationship with high-ranking politicians.