Back in March, we endorsed Ted Lempert for the 11th state Senate over Joe Simitian. Simitian beat Lempert in the primary. Republican Jon Zellhoefer and Libertarian Allen M. Rice don’t stand a chance against the Simitian juggernaut in November. That’s no reason to endorse him. But there are plenty of other reasons.

As a 21st district assemblyman, Simitian successfully fought off then-Gov. Gray Davis’ attempt in 2003 to take away basic aid funding from the districts like our own Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District. The funding takeaway would have crippled the district. He also has led numerous efforts to increase funding for our local school districts.

He’s also been strong on the environment and, like Poizner, has shown he can work with others outside his party to achieve results. We criticized him in the past over his bill banning motorists from handheld cell phones. His “There Oughta Be A Law” contests come across as a bit pandering to his constituents. On the other hand, the man’s responsiveness is incredible. He has seldom failed to return a phone call - promptly - and has been proactive in gathering feedback through such efforts as holding “sidewalk hours.”

As an assemblyman, Simitian has shown energy and commitment to getting things done. We strongly suspect he will continue this approach as he moves on, presumably, to the state Senate.