Vote for John Hansen

Experience gives candidate the clear edge

When students living in the 52nd District, which includes North Campus, go to the polls next Tuesday, they should keep in mind that Democratic incumbent John Hansen is the best choice for state Representative. While his opponent, Scott Wojack, has some innovative ideas, Hansen's focus and experience make him the better candidate.

Hansen's main priority in the state legislature has been the improvement of public education. His background in this field - he is a former Dexter Public Schools Superintendent - gives him a strong qualification in this area. While his main focus is on K-12 schooling, something which does not directly affect University students, it cannot be denied that it is a crucial issue. He also supports increased funding for higher education. Hansen is particularly concerned with environmental issues, human rights and mental health - all areas that have suffered during the Engler administration.

The experience Hansen has gained in his two years in the House give him a definite advantage in this campaign. In a meeting with the Daily's editorial board, Hansen demonstrated a real understanding of the skills needed to operate effectively in the state legislature, particularly as a member of the minority party. He has also improved his efforts to be accessible to his constituents, particularly those on campus. The establishment of his campaign office on East Liberty Street is only the most visible sign of these efforts.

Hansen's opponent, Scott Wojack, has some very interesting ideas and some of his goals - such as improved visibility for third parties and legalization of industrial hemp - are certainly laudable ones. In fact, much of his platform is strikingly dissimilar to that of the Republican Party as a whole. Many of his ideas, such as completely restructuring the school system, ensuring that all students are bilingual by a certain age and making third parties a more influential part of the legislature, are unfeasible goals for a state representative.

Although Wojack's platform encompasses some worthy issues, Hansen's experience and understanding of how the state legislature operates makes him the better candidate. Vote John Hansen for 52nd District State House.