Ohio House 43rd: Dyer (D) Endorsed by Beacon Journal

Stephen Dyer (D-Tallmadge), a former Beacon Journal reporter who is now a staff attorney for Summit County Executive James McCarthy, received his former employer's endorsement over auto parts company computer analyst Christopher Stoll (D-New Franklin) in the Democratic primary for the 43rd District seat being vacated by State Auditor candidate Rep. Mary Taylor (R-Green). The winner will face Christine Croce (R-Green) in the general election.

The editors identify Dyer's major concern as "education, particularly access to affordable higher education, which he correctly sees as the crucial link to job development," and praise his understanding of the power of information, "even the influence it can have in the legislature." For example, Dyer "knows the average income in his district is about $48,000 a year, and that tuition costs at a state school are about $15,000 a year, " a combination that "spells trouble if the state intends to move forward."

Stoll served with the Ohio National Guard in Iraq for 10 months. The editors commend his "heartfelt concerns about certain issues, especially primary and secondary education," but they conclude that he "lacks the knowledge and awareness of his opponent."

The 43rd Ohio House District covers much of southern Summit and Portage counties. Democratic candidate Jane Tabor-Grimm garnered 42.42% of the vote against Taylor in 2004, and Michael Grimm attracted 46.39% in 2002.