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EDITORIAL
Elect Alice Kryzan in the 26th congressional District
October 19, 2008
Democrat Alice Kryzan is an environmental attorney who believes she can defy the odds in the Republican-dominated 26th Congressional District and help make life better in this region.
So do we. The Democrat and Chronicle endorses Kryzan in the Nov. 4 general election.
She is opposed by Republican Chris Lee, who also is making his first foray into politics. However, Lee, the owner of a successful family business that operates internationally, failed to provide a strong enough argument that he'd be the best successor to retiring Republican Rep. Tom Reynolds.
Kryzan not only persuaded us she has good ideas worth trying, but that she possesses the kind of personal decorum that seems to be in short supply in the public arena. She took the high road in the mudslinging Democratic primary campaign and was rewarded by voters with victory.
The hope is that some of Kryzan's high-mindedness will wear off on others in the too-often bitterly partisan House as she pushes her priorities. They include boosting the region's sluggish economy by attracting alternative energy development.
Lee, too, said he'd make economic development and alternative energy priorities, but failed to offer enough new ideas. He also raised concerns when he refused to take a position on the first bailout bill in Congress. This, from someone who proudly points out that he has strong credentials in both economics and finance, doesn't jibe.
However, Lee's criticism of Kryzan's lack of familiarity with proposed Renaissance Square, the largest capital project in this region's history, was valid. The project, after all, in some form could represent a major boost to the revitalization of downtown.
To adequately represent this region, Kryzan must thoroughly educate herself about its myriad concerns. She's certainly capable.
The Buffalo-area resident seems to be a quick study who would provide a strong and intelligent voice in Washington for this part of upstate.
