Ira Ruskin for state Assembly 21

Two years ago, we didn’t endorse Democrat Ira Ruskin for state Assembly District 21. But he was elected, and since then, he has been a hardworking legislator. He gets our nod this time in his re-election bid.

Among his accomplishments, Ruskin co-authored a global warming bill requiring reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. He worked with fellow lawmakers to bring more state money back to public education. He also showed he is not in favor of taxation as a solution to every problem, contrary to opponents’ claims. For example, he opposes the statewide parcel tax for K-12 education proposed under Proposition 88.

We like challenger Virginia Chang Kiraly, too, and encourage her to seek more political experience by running for other offices.

We encourage Ruskin to broaden his horizons. Although we appreciate his focus on the environment, his work should expand to goals such as creating a more favorable business climate in the state - an issue Chang Kiraly lists as a priority. We also want to see Ruskin keep his constituents more informed through periodic town hall meetings. We’re confident he can do this.