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Brunner's experience gives her the edge for Ohio's top elections post
The Columbus Dispatch
October 15, 2006
While Ohioans are fortunate to have two qualified candidates for secretary of state, the balance tips in favor of Democrat Jennifer Brunner, who deserves voters' support on Nov. 7. Brunner and her Republican opponent, Greg Hartmann of Cincinnati, have solid records and sterling credentials. Both candidates have demonstrated a thorough grasp of the duties of Ohio's top elections official, but Brunner has the advantage of experience as a deputy director and legislative counsel in the secretary of state's office. Her law practice has specialized in election issues, a background that would give her a head start in taking over the supervision of Ohio's elections from current Secretary of State J. Kenneth Blackwell. Ohio has seen a number of changes in election law and a flurry of lawsuits challenging voting rules and procedures. Brunner's legal knowledge should help. Her resume includes solid performance on the Franklin County Common Pleas Court, where she developed a court focused on rehabilitating nonviolent drug offenders. As judge, Brunner was rated favorably by the Columbus Bar Association and she demonstrated the ability to rule in a fair and objective manner, a necessary attribute for secretary of state. Given the bald partisanship of Blackwell, the next secretary of state needs to be an impartial arbiter of elections. Blackwell's politicking in 2004 for State Issue 1, the amendment banning gay marriages, and on behalf of President Bush's re-election gave Democrats an opening to question his neutrality. Both candidates have promised not to get involved in campaigns to support issues and candidates. Hartmann is an energetic candidate who would beef up poll-worker training and coax more young people to get involved in elections. Hartmann has more management experience than Brunner. As clerk of Hamilton County courts, he supervises an office of more than 320 employees. He's making a name for himself as a statewide candidate, but Brunner's background in election duties and election law gives her an edge. Ohio is experiencing substantial changes, including a new generation of voting machines, voter-ID requirements at the polling locations and vastly expanded absentee voting. Brunner has the drive and energy to oversee operations in this period of transition. If she's elected, Brunner should reach out to Republicans to support proposals for an equitable legislative redistricting system to replace the partisan one now in effect. The Dispatch endorses Brunner for secretary of state.
