Ohio Sen 21st: Smith (D) Wins Plain Dealer Endorsement

One day after I posted a profile of three Ohio Senate races including the 21st District, the Plain Dealer has published its endorsement of front-runner Rep. Shirley Smith. The editorial board notes that Smith "has focused in recent years on the issue of capital punishment" and "has been the House's leading advocate for a moratorium on the death penalty and for studies to determine whether there are racial disparities in its application." They laud her as "active in issues affecting poor constituents in the inner-city portions of her district."

As to primary opponent Rep. Annie Key, the endorsement praises her as "a diligent legislator" who has "shown over time her willingness to educate herself on issues of importance" and "to advocate for her constituents," and as "a reliable voice for the underprivileged" whose "earnestness has never been questioned." The board describes attorney and retired U.S. Postal Service employee Gaines as "intelligent, familiar with state issues" and speaking "with conviction of his desire to serve." The final Democrat in the field, self-described community activist Lewis Britt, is "to be admired for his commitment to the community."