Vote for Chris Kolb

53rd District needs a superstar representative

If only all elections had two highly-qualified candidates running for one seat, our political system would be outstanding. In the 53rd District race for state representative, Ann Arbor is in this enviable position. We must choose between Chris Kolb and Bob Bykowski, two strong, able politicians. However, in the issues that count the most, it is evident that Chris Kolb is the smarter choice.

Both candidates are involved in the community and both want to challenge urban sprawl and improve education and the environment. Each has local political experience. Kolb has a stronger record of involvement, endorsements by numerous groups (both state and local) and a well-defined plan of attack, so he will be well-prepared for the office. Name a group and he is most likely involved, or he has at least met with members.

Kolb is directly involved in the American Civil Liberties Union, the National Organization for Women, Planned Parenthood, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the Ann Arbor Jaycees, the Sierra Club and a dozen other organization. More than 20 groups, including the Michigan Educational Association and the Michigan AFL-CIO back his campaign.

Bykowski, too, is involved, but at a lower level compared to Kolb. While he has never been a state representative, Kolb has worked extensively with John Hansen, a current state representative. Kolb is also aware of his limits as a possible Democratic minority and is willing to compromise and work together with representatives from other areas to get his issues, especially those concerning the environment (he is a graduate of the School of Natural Resources), attended to by the legislature. Kolb is at his best identifying problems, examining how other communities have dealt with those problems and finding the best solution.

Kolb's plan appears stronger than most politicians, even those at higher levels of government. Seven issues compose the plan, with the environment, public education and health care leading the way. Not only do the issues Kolb advocates generally concern all of Ann Arbor, but they also relate to students as well. Student housing, safety on campus, education - including tuition and civil rights should be on every student's mind when examining candidates. Urban sprawl is one particular problem that has affected Ann Arbor in the last few years. Kolb is an ideal representative of students, faculty and residents of Ann Arbor.

Kolb, whom the Daily endorsed for Ann Arbor mayor two years ago, appears as a superstar in this race. From his outstanding general plan, down to the details applying to students and residents alike, this seven-year Ann Arbor city council member is undeniably well organized.

Kolb is the man we want to deal with Mike Rogers' unpopular voter registration law, mandatory minimum drug offense laws and other state issues. Vote Chris Kolb for 53rd District State House.