WEEKEND EDITION: Oct. 13, 2002
Gov. Kenny Guinn, a Republican seeking a second term, often has moderate positions on social and economic issues. State Sen. Joe Neal, the Democratic nominee for governor, hasn't flinched in his long tenure in the Legislature from bringing up subjects that many would just as soon avoid -- increasing taxes, for example. Guinn, however, by far is the best choice for governor. He is prepared to handle the biggest questions facing the 2003 Legislature, issues that could affect Nevada for decades to come. Guinn understands more must be done for social services and education, and he also acknowledges the need to fix the state's rickety tax structure. The Sun endorses Kenny Guinn for governor.
Republican Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt wants a second term, but Clark County Commissioner Erin Kenny, a Democrat, wants to unseat her. Hunt has been a steady presence and has grown into the job. We believe Lorraine Hunt should be re-elected.
Secretary of State Dean Heller, a Republican, is running for a third term. Heller, the state's top election official, has been an effective voice for campaign and election reform -- even defying GOP leaders in the Legislature when they've opposed these changes. The Sun endorses Dean Heller.
In the attorney general's race, Democrat John Hunt and Republican Brian Sandoval are locked in a tough race. Hunt currently is in private practice and previously worked for the Nevada Gaming Control Board's Audit Division. Sandoval is a former state legislator and ex-chairman of the Nevada Gaming Commission. Each candidate has his own particular strengths and, despite their public differences in this campaign -- which at times has turned nasty -- we're confident that either one has the experience and the drive to handle the state's top law enforcement job. The Sun believes voters couldn't go wrong by choosing either John Hunt or Brian Sandoval.
Treasurer Brian Krolicki is seeking a second term. The Republican has effectively invested and managed the state's money. Krolicki also has done a fine job administering the Millennium Scholarship Program. Brian Krolicki deserves another four years.
Kathy Augustine, a Republican, is running for re-election as controller, which pays the state's bills. She has hired outside collection agencies to try to collect some of the $143 million in outstanding debt to the state, but her Democratic opponent, John Lee, notes that just $1 million has been collected so far. Lee instead wants the state to operate an aggressive collection program. His enthusiasm, ideas and business background are just what the controller's office needs. The Sun endorses John Lee.
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