Residents in the 8-county area that makes up Senate District 14 have been fortunate to enjoy extraordinary effective representation over the years, thanks to the political skills of the late George Kirkpatrick and, more recently, Rod Smith.

Of the two Republicans and two Democrats in contention to replace Smith, who can best carry on that tradition of effective representation?

For Republicans in the upcoming primary the decision on a nominee should be an easier one. Travis Horn is a self-described "Reagan Republican" who promises a crusade to ban gay marriages (which, by the way, are already illegal in Florida.) While we do not question the depth of his devotion to conservative ideology, the issues that are most important to this district do not easily lend themselves to resolution by political doctrine. Fortunately, Republicans have a far better choice in this primary.

Steve Oelrich has been sheriff of Alachua County for nearly 14 years. That a Republican was able to get elected and returned to office multiple times in a Democrat-leaning county says a lot about his bipartisan appeal and his effectiveness.

As a career law enforcement officer Oelrich will, of course, fight hard for more resources for public safety. But he also knows that what breeds crime is the lack of economic and educational opportunity. He is less an ideologue than a well seasoned public official who knows his community and who knows the fiscal and economic challenges it faces. Oelrich is already well known in Tallahassee because of his work with the Florida Sheriff's Association. He brings to this race a credibility, record of accomplishment and breath of experience that his opponent lacks.